STEADY BEAT

Type the names of different owls and affix to patterns. Each owl would have the name of only one owl written or posted upon it. You can find the larger die-cut patterns at a local card outlet or teacher's supply store.


After singing a owl song (My Owlet) or reciting a owl poem (A Wise Old Owl), create a B Section by having children speak and/or play the rhythm patterns of what the owls say when placed in a rhythmic sentence of 8. Each pattern will have only one type of owl written on it -- therefore, each pattern/owl equals one complete beat. For example, "long-whiskered" would be represented by an eighth note and 2 sixteenth notes; "barn owl" would be represented by a two eighth notes.  Use an owl finger puppet to tap each owl, keeping a steady beat as the B Section is created.  Allow different children to use the finger puppet.  Transfer the language to non-pitched percussion instruments and invite children to perform what the words say.

For an extension, try creating rhythmic sentences in different meters. Can you sing or chant your A section selection in that meter as well?   :)

You can also connect this rhythmic activity to other children's titles that have an owl theme.