Submitted by Barb Philipak, St. Peters, Missouri
Idea posted April 23, 2002
I really do think that Recorder Karate would work out wonderfully for a multi-age class. It would allow all of the students to work at their own pace. The fifth graders would probably move through the belts quicker than the third graders so you could let them be 'tutors' after they get their black belt. Or, you could make up an easier packet just for third graders, let the 4th and 5th graders do the RK belts as it is in the book, and then let the 5th graders move on to the degrees when they finish the black belt. This way you will have enough material to keep everyone moving at their own pace. Also, if you have a really talented third grader or two, you could allow them to move on up to the next packet.
However... If you don't want to mess with making an easier packet and a black belt degree packet, you could just use RK as it is in the book, and still let everyone move at their own pace. If the third graders aren't as advanced as the older kids, maybe you can just move them a little slower through the belts. Again... I'd let the older kids tutor the younger ones.
I really think this would work better for you than most other methods out there, BECAUSE it allows everyone to work at their own pace and doesn't hold anyone back, but will continue challenging the younger ones.
Hopefully this helps!!