Monkey Sits By The Coconut Tree

This simple, primary level song will give your students the opportunity to use their imaginations and their face muscles. Most youngsters have funny faces they are happy to show, and this will give them the perfect outlet to do so.

Here is one performance suggestion: have all students stand in a circle and hold hands. When the music begins, tell them to take one step to the side (left or right?) for every two beats (on beat 1 and 3 of each measure: step, feet together, step, feet together). Stop moving at the first "ha ha," and start again each time at measure 6.

Select two students for each verse to go to the middle of the circle. They may sing and move around during the verses. One student is the animal and may perform accordingly (faces, noises, demeanors) throughout the verse. After the first "ha ha" the non-animal student makes a funny face at the animal. After the second "ha ha" the animal responds with his own funny face (and possibly sound effects). The second set of "ha ha's" may be used for more funny faces or as a vamp to exchange performers.

Repeat the song for more animals and performance opportunities. Consider using different animals, i.e., farm animals, zoo animals, pets, dinosaurs, unusual animals, bugs, etc.