The Wheels On The Car

It probably wouldn't surprise you to know that this song was inspired by actual experience. Winters around here can be brutal, and the abuse the roads get from ice, snow, salt, and plows leave the surfaces absolutely pitted with holes. In fact, we're betting that you have also had similar experiences.

This is one song in the revue that would be a good one for your youngest singers, too, as most little kids know the original version of this, "The Wheels On The Bus." The tricky part might be helping them remember to say "car" instead of "bus." But all the amusing lyrics should help them stay on track. Especially if you let them do movements to emphasize the words. For example:

• round = draw a circle in the air
• scrape = push hands away like a plow
• big = pantomime a big hole with hands
• bump = bounce each time "bump" is sung
• clank = put fingers in ears as if noisy
• "Oof oof ow!" = hands on tummies or heads, etc.

We had all kinds of fun with the orchestration on this one. Each verse is performed by a different group of instruments with their own particular style. If you have a chance, play the instrumental tracks for your kids, either to just listen and enjoy or to discuss what they're hearing. It might also make an interesting lesson in variations on a theme (probably for your older students).