Introducing Ukulele Chords

Lesson Overview

This 50-minute lesson is Lesson 5 of 11 in the unit "Exploring Sound and Rhythm" designed for Foundation students in NSW. The lesson introduces the ukulele, focusing on basic chords and strumming, developing students’ early performance and listening skills appropriate for their age and curriculum stage.

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NSW Curriculum Links

The lesson aligns with the pre-2023 NSW Music syllabus as used currently in many primary schools:

Outcomes & Content Descriptions (Foundation/Foundation Year / Early Stage 1):

• MUS1.2: Explore and perform rhythm and pitch patterns using voice and instruments.
• MUS1.4: Sing, play and invent music using sound and silence, pitch and rhythm (ie. vocal and instrumental exploration).
• Developing kinaesthetic skills for playing instruments and applying fundamental elements of music such as rhythm and beat through practical engagement.

Achievement Standard:
Students will demonstrate basic instrumental skills to perform simple rhythmic patterns and melodies. They will respond with enjoyment to performing music in a group setting.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Recognise and name the ukulele and its parts.
• Identify and play basic ukulele chords (C major, F major, G7).
• Practice simple strumming patterns.
• Perform a simple song together using the chords learned.
• Demonstrate listening and cooperative skills in group performance.

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Resources Needed

• Ukuleles (enough so each child or pair can access one)
• Chord charts with pictures (visual aids showing finger positions on the ukulele)
• Audio examples of ukulele songs (optional for modelling)
• Simple song sheet with chord placement for group play
• Tuner app or reference pitch

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Lesson Structure

1. Welcome & Introduction to Ukulele (8 minutes)

• Briefly show the ukulele and demonstrate its sound.
• Discuss the parts of the ukulele (body, neck, strings) using a child-friendly diagram.
• Explain that today they will learn simple chords to make music together.

2. Demonstration of Basic Chords (12 minutes)

• Introduce three basic chords: C major, F major, and G7.
• Use chord charts with photos of fingers on strings for visual support.
• Demonstrate each chord slowly, encouraging students to watch finger placement carefully.
• Students attempt finding finger placements on their own ukuleles or by air-fingering if not enough instruments.

3. Strumming Practice (8 minutes)

• Teach a simple down-stroke strumming pattern to accompany chords.
• Practice strumming while holding the ukulele or miming.
• Emphasise steady beat and relaxed hand movement.

4. Play a Simple Song Together (15 minutes)

• Introduce a familiar or simple song (e.g., “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” adapted with C and G7 chords).
• Model playing the song using the chord progression slowly.
• Invite students to play along, encouraging listening and group cooperation.
• Teacher circulates to support correct finger placements and strumming.

5. Reflection & Cool Down (7 minutes)

• Ask students: What was easy? What did you enjoy? Was anything tricky?
• Encourage students to share feelings about playing music as a group.
• Play a short recorded ukulele tune quietly while students relax.

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Differentiation Strategies

• Visual learners: Provide chord charts with large, colourful finger diagrams.
• Auditory learners: Use call-and-response singing and strumming.
• Kinesthetic learners: Provide hands-on support and allow air-fingering if unable to reach strings yet.
• Students with fine motor skill challenges: Allow paired learning or simplified chord shapes (e.g., just one finger for C chord).
• EAL/D learners: Use simple language, gestures, and model frequently. Provide pictorial resources.

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Extension Activities for Advanced Learners

• Learn an additional chord (e.g., A minor or D7) to expand song variety.
• Explore a more complex song using the chords C, F, G7, and the new chord.
• Encourage composing a short strumming pattern or rhythm to accompany chords.
• Introduce simple two-chord songs and experiment with changing tempo.

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Assessment

• Formative: Teacher observation of students’ ability to hold and play chords correctly; ability to follow strumming pattern in group performance.
• Anecdotal: Listening for participation, enthusiasm, and group cooperation during playing.
• Self-assessment: Brief student reflection on what they learned and enjoyed.

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Teacher Notes

• Keep the pace slow and supportive—Foundation students benefit from lots of repetition and demonstration.
• Use plenty of positive reinforcement to build confidence with new instrument skills.
• Integrate simple musical language and encourage expressive playing, not just technical accuracy.
• Stress that mistakes are part of learning, and all efforts to make music are valued.

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This lesson nurtures foundational instrumental skills following NSW pre-syllabus outcomes, encourages group music making, and is designed to engage diverse learners through visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic approaches, while providing stretch opportunities for advanced students.

Teachers new to ukulele pedagogy will find this an accessible and enjoyable start to the instrument, incorporating essential early musicianship skills in rhythm, pitch, and coordination.

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If you would like, I can provide a detailed script and ready-made chord charts designed for young learners!