P1 - D5

Read and play at sight short, simple phrases at a regular pulse; begin to make links between sound and symbol

Play short, simple rhythmic patterns and ask learners to copy them.

Using flash cards, help learners to:

  • recognise different aspects of notation
  • clap, say and play simple rhythmic patterns, maintaining a regular pulse, perhaps at different tempi

Presentation programs such as PowerPoint or Google Slides can be used to make flash cards to display on a tablet or interactive whiteboard. These have the advantage of being easily editable, so new rhythms and melodic patterns can be created as required by either the teacher or the learners.

The maxim ‘sound before symbol’ is as important now as ever. Reading notation is a means to making music, not an end in itself.

Help learners to gain enthusiasm for learning pieces, using notation when appropriate. Ensure that its use is encouraging rather than discouraging.