Summary
The objective of this lesson is for small groups of students to collaborate to create layered rhythm vocal ostinatos (repeating rhythm phrases) using puppets, based on a topic of their choice. Students will create ostinatos using repeated words or sounds in synchronization with puppet movements to create layers of sound patterns that compliment and contrast with the others in their group. During the course of this activity, students will become more confident and creative in their performances as shown through better voice projection, increased complexity of rhythms with movement, and increased sharing of ideas within their groups. They will plan, practice, perform and share these performances using various technology devices. Their performances will also be posted to Vimeo.
TIPC Ratings
This project scores in the Developing range of Research & Information Fluency. The students used a reliable professional source (the symphony website) as well as each others’ projects to get ideas and improve upon them. The lesson builds on their research of rhythm using the symphony website and prior experience reading and playing rhythm patterns in instrument groups. Students have the choice of using various technology tools to record their performances, including iPads, Flip cameras and laptops.
This project scores in the Approaching range of Communication & Collaboration. Students worked in collaborative groups to create their ostinato vocal rhythms and puppet movements. They evaluated their performances and revised them in order to make them more complex. They chose what digital tool to use to record their performance and they posted the video of their projects online.
This project scores in the Developing range of Critical Thinking & Problem Solving. Students had to think about ways to make their ostinatos more complex by adding additional layers, turning simple words into longer phrases, and adjusting their puppets’ movements. By studying the recordings of their performances, students evaluated each other and themselves based on many applicable criteria: creativity, balance, contrast, rhythm, teamwork.
This project scores in the Developing range of Creativity & Innovation. All groups created the same product (puppet shows), but they were encouraged to think of new rhythms and topics for their ostinatos, making more than just one. This lesson provides multiple opportunities to plan, create, perform and share. It synthesizes the talents of students with different learning styles and abilities to create a new group experience. Each group performs for the class numerous times resulting in significant growth in the areas of rhythm, technology, teamwork and creativity.
