Rhythm Basics

Lesson 5

This is continuation from the previous lesson, reinforcing learning about rhythm, pulse and using Kodaly rhythm syllables. By end of this lesson the group should be able to read and clap patterns using crotchets, quavers, crotchet rests and semi quavers.

Preparation:

  • Check and watch each of the video links and check they work and you understand each task.

  • Be in a space where the group can get into a large circle.

  • Have white boards and pens or paper for each person in the group.

Activity 1 – Warm-Up


A Ship Sailed from China – 5 mins

This warm-up activity uses the playful song “A Ship Sailed from China” to engage the group at the start of the session. It encourages focus, coordination, and active participation while setting a positive and energetic tone for the lesson.

  • watch the demonstration video together so the group can listen to the melody and observe the suggested actions

  • learn the song step-by-step, starting with speaking the lyrics clearly, then moving to singing along once everyone feels confident with the words and rhythm.

  • add the actions to accompany the song.

    This game works especially well as a standing activity, allowing participants to move and interact more freely while singing. It’s a great way to warm up voices, bodies, and minds in preparation for the rest of the lesson.

Activity 2 – Tempo Practice
Slow, Twice as Fast, Twice as Fast Again – 5 mins

This activity helps the group develop a strong sense of tempo and pulse by exploring how music feels at different speeds. It encourages active listening, coordination, and body movement while making tempo changes fun and engaging.

  • watch the demonstration video together. As the music plays, have the group move their feet to the beat

Encourage everyone to keep their movements steady and accurate, matching the tempo changes as they happen.

This exercise is ideal for helping students internalise the concept of tempo and prepares them for future rhythm activities that require flexibility and control when switching speeds.

Activity 3 – Repeating Semiquaver Rhythm Patterns


Rhythm Practice with Voice, Body, and Instruments – 10 mins

This activity develops fluency with semiquaver (sixteenth-note) rhythm patterns by combining speaking, clapping, and instrumental play. It strengthens internal pulse, coordination, and rhythmic accuracy while building confidence with faster, more complex patterns.

  • watch the demonstration video as a group. Start by saying the rhythm words aloud with the video at a steady tempo

  • clap and say the patterns together, reinforcing the connection between vocalising and physical movement.

  • encourage the group to internalise the rhythms by saying them in their thinking voice while tapping or clapping the patterns on their hands.

For added variety and engagement, this activity can also be performed using claves, drums, or other percussion instruments, allowing students to explore different timbres while practising precise rhythm execution.

Activity 4 – Forbidden Rhythm Game


Clap and Say – Rhythm Recognition and Focus – 10 mins

This interactive game is designed to develop rhythmic accuracy, focus, and listening skills while keeping the activity fun and engaging. The challenge is to clap and say every rhythm pattern that is called out—except for the forbidden rhythm.

  • Join in with the video

Activity 5 - Preparing for a new rhythm

Who Stole My Chickens and my Hens

In this activity, the children will experience and sing dotted rhythms through song. They will also mark the rest notes with sounds or percussion instruments

  • Watch the video

  • Pause the video to practice the song in sections making the clucking sound as described