How to Use Rhythm Instruments for Reading Readiness
- 1). Purchase a rhythm and reading readiness kit or make your own by assembling a variety of rhythm instruments, such as cymbals, rhythm sticks, triangles, hand drums and tambourines. Make charts with pictures of these instruments in different orders and patterns.
- 2). Demonstrate each rhythm instrument for the individuals you are teaching. Allow the individuals to explore the sounds and shapes of the rhythm instruments.
- 3). Show the rhythm instrument chart to the students. Point to an instrument shape and ask them to identify the correct instrument. This activity improves the skill of discerning shapes.
- 4). Play through the song or exercise with the individuals. You may want to point along as they play. Each time they see a particular instrument shape, they should play that instrument. For instance, if there is a row of four triangle shapes, the individuals should play the triangle four times. The pictures represent sounds, which helps an individual understand the alphabetic principle. The pictures of instruments also help an individual understand the concepts of print, and they will begin to understand that the pictures are organized in a particular order and direction.
- 5). Repeat the rhythm instrument reading exercise. The more the individuals repeat the activity successfully, the more they will understand and gain reading readiness skills.
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