Music and Movement

Curriculum Area

Te Whāriki – The Early Childhood Curriculum (Aotearoa New Zealand)

• Communication | Mana Reo: Using music to develop oral language and early literacy skills
• Exploration | Mana Aotūroa: Engaging with numeracy through beats and rhythms
• Belonging | Mana Whenua: Developing self-esteem and relationships through collaborative music-making

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, tamariki (children) will:

1. Develop early literacy skills by singing along to familiar songs
2. Explore numeracy through counting beats and patterns in music
3. Express themselves through movement and creative play
4. Work collaboratively in a group music activity, fostering relationships and confidence

Session Duration

30 minutes

---

1️⃣ Welcome and Whakawhanaungatanga (5 minutes)

• Karakia & Greeting Song
  • Begin with a short karakia to set a calm and welcoming tone.
  • Sing “Mōrena, Mōrena” (or any well-known Māori greeting song) together to build a sense of belonging.
• Quick Check-in
  • Ask each child to share a favourite sound or instrument (e.g., clapping, guitar, drum).

---

2️⃣ Rhythm & Numeracy Warm-Up (5 minutes)

• “Clap and Count” Game
  • Teacher claps a short pattern (e.g., 1-2, 1-2-3), and tamariki repeat.
  • Ask, “How many claps did I do?” to introduce numeracy.
  • Vary the beats (fast/slow) to encourage active listening.

---

3️⃣ Sing and Learn (10 minutes)

• Song: “E Rere Taku Poi”
  • Teach actions to go with the song, using poi or scarves for movement.
  • Focus on repeating patterns in the song to enhance memory and rhythm.
• Phonics & Sound Play
  • Introduce a simple song that highlights sounds (e.g., “A-E-I-O-U” song).
  • Emphasise different vowel/consonant sounds in a fun and playful way.

---

4️⃣ Team Music-Making (5 minutes)

• Instrument Circle
  • Distribute classroom percussion instruments (e.g., tambourines, maracas, Māori pūrerehua).
  • Guide tamariki to play together, taking turns leading a beat while others follow.
  • Discuss how working together makes music sound better—building collaboration skills.

---

5️⃣ Cool Down & Reflection (5 minutes)

• Gentle Lullaby & Breathing Exercise
  • Sing “Hine E Hine” softly while children relax.
  • Follow with “deep belly breathing,” encouraging calmness before transitioning to the next class activity.
• Quick Reflection
  • Ask:
    • “What was your favourite part?”
    • “How did the music make you feel?”

---

🎶 Assessment & Observations

• Observe engagement in counting and patterns (numeracy).
• Note participation in song actions and recall of lyrics (literacy).
• Identify collaboration and confidence in group activities.

💡 Teacher Tips for Extension

• Create a “Music Wall” with symbols for loud/soft, fast/slow.
• Encourage children to bring an instrument from home to share next session.
• Use the same song for a few weeks, building deeper connections to rhythms and words.

Ka pai, tamariki mā! 🎵