Teaching Routine for Primary and Lower Elementary

Submitted by Ann Robins, Raytown, Missouri

Idea posted October 22, 2003

Per the advice of several seasoned teachers, I decided to establish a routine for my classes. I feel like I'm covering my curriculum more in-depth and giving the students a variety of musical experiences, while providing them with the structure and dependability elementary students crave.

Students walk in and form a circle around the edge of the carpet. We use this time to establish and review "the basics." I use solfège and ta, ti-ti, etc. with my first and second graders. During this time, we do call and response, student-created rhythms and melodies, and sight reading. I use this time with my kindergarten students to introduce them to the classroom instruments and call and response music.

We move to our regular seats and use about 25 minutes for our lesson and activity of the day. I am focusing on a different musical element every month, learning the specific concepts for that grade level in each class. I also use this time for seasonal music and activities.

Whenever possible, if there is a game that reinforces or extends a concept taught in the lesson, we play it near the end of class.

I always end with quiet time. We dim the lights and do creative movement, relaxation exercises, steady beat practice with quiet music, read a book, et cetera, then I call students to get in line. It's a very peaceful transition to the hall and back to their classroom!