Little To Big

This concept was requested on our Music K-8 Mailing List by more than one person, so you know we're paying attention! The concept is a bit abstract, so we're hoping this song will help your students grasp it. We've used specific lyrics here, i.e. "My chair, my room, my home," but we could've just as easily used "My desk, my classroom, my school," or any other little to big (and vice versa) elements you care to use. Change the lyrics to whatever works for you.

The song is very singable with easy rhythms and a range from middle C to the A above - great for your primary students. We've added an acoustic guitar melody guide for reinforcement on the recording. There is also a nifty synth bell countermelody starting at measure 25, just FYI. Our pianist embellished on the written part, and if you wish to use this tune live, you can certainly do the same thing. The chord progressions and style are the important things.

One way to teach the idea in a more concrete way would be to get some boxes that are graduated in size. Label them "solar system," "galaxy," "universe," and so on. Put the smallest inside the next size larger, then those inside the next larger, and on and on until they're all inside the biggest. Use a map or drawing to do this in a two-dimensional way if it is easier. Show your students on the map where they are right now and put a note that says "You are here." Discuss the limits or borders of each space. As you get to things like city, county, state, or country, use this lesson as a cross curricular emphasis on geography. When it becomes planet, solar system, etc., use it for science.