During their “How We Express Ourselves” Unit of Inquiry, Grade 4 students were challenged to compose a complex musical piece using pattern and story that would be performed on instruments they created themselves. The resulting song, titled “Circle of Spring,” used a rondo form and included sections that the composers referred to as elements of spring: a soccer game, kites and swings, a storm, and the Boise River.
Mrs. DeLaney guided the efforts to compose the song in music class whereas the instruments were created in Mr. Jay’s art class using found materials. Egg cartons, tubes, funnels, bottles, tape, rubber bands, and disposable trays never sounded so good! These wonderful creations produced sound by striking, plucking, blowing, or shaking.
This is a wonderful example of a Primary Years Programme Unit of Inquiry developed collaboratively between our two Grade 4 classroom teachers (Ms. Fitzharris and Mrs. Walker) and our Music and Art specialist teachers.
As a grand finale, the students performed “Circle of Spring” for parents. Bravo!
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