The powerpoint presentation from my session at IMEA entitled Ukes In The Middle!
Download: Ukes In The Middle
Links to complete units:
The powerpoint presentation from my session at IMEA entitled Ukes In The Middle!
Download: Ukes In The Middle
Links to complete units:
This is one of my favorite units because it’s such a great mix of history, theory, and performing – and the kids love it! I do this unit with 8th graders but it would work down to upper elementary. The combo of learning to play the blues as you learn about the blues makes it all come together. Of course, you could also do this unit without the ukes and just stick to to blues styles.
I use this unit to introduce ukulele playing. You’ll see that by the end of the first day with the ukes they are playing the blues (well…most of it.) My approach is to teach them what they need as we go. This gets them playing and making music immediately – which is what they (and we!) really want to do! It also makes it easier to introduce new concepts. “You want to play your favorite song? Great – you just need to learn one more chord.” “Oh ok, show me.” Voila! As my mentor, Dr. Timothy Gerber, likes to say, “Create a need to know.”
One more thought on using ukuleles in the classroom: I like for my students to use their ukuleles as a tool for learning. Of course, I have to teach them to play. But we’re always learning something else in the process – like the blues. This allows me to embed all kinds of other musical knowledge while they work on their playing skills.
I’ve included everything that I use for this unit for download except the extra choice songs. These really depend on what your students like – try to find songs they love so they will be motivated to learn them! Some tried and true songs my kids always love are The Sponge Bob Fun Song and Lean On Me. Look for anything with three chords (C, F, G). For students who are ready to do a little more you can add Am and you’ll have many more options.
As always, take what you need and add what makes it work for you! And please share any thoughts, additional ideas, and experiences!
Blues Unit
Student Objectives
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
The following days are split between learning the history of the blues and practicing Ukes.
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8-10
Day 11
Day 12-14
Materials For Download