Although
this will be replaced by rhythm and
pitch warm-ups, hear is an
activity that pulls everyone together, sets high expectations,
and leaves the students eager to continue.
Hold hands up
and apart, preparing to clap, then wait for students to imitate.
CLAP QUICKLY! The students will copy.
Say, "late." Continue
to pause and clap, encouraging the class to clap exactly when
you do. When successful, challenge them to do it twice
in a row.
For primary grades,
slow the pace of the clap for success.
Invite a student
to lead the drill.
For upper grades,
STOP THE CLAP HALFWAY, and see who can adjust. Eventually,
and at various levels, each class will be together, matching
your claps, and the "TEAM" is established, focused
and ready to move on.
