The Beat of Mexico Subject: Music Grade: Pre-K, K-2, 3-5

Brief Description

Students learn about mariachi music and create their own rhythm instruments.

Objectives

Students learn about the music of Mexico.

Keywords

Mexico, mariachi, rhythm, instrument, culture

Materials Needed

• el mariachi.com!
• Make a Rhythm Instrument
• one plastic pantyhose egg, one empty drink mix cylinder, or two heavy-duty paper plates per student
• beans
• paint and paintbrushes
• glue or stapler

Optional Web Sites for Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Introduction to Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo

Lesson Plan

• Explain to students that music is an important part of Mexican festivals. Play a selection of mariachi songs from el mariachi.com!. Discuss the mood each piece of music creates.
• Ask students to vote for the mariachi song they like best.
• Distribute craft materials and help students Make a Rhythm Instrument.
• Play the song students voted as their favorite and invite them to use the shakers they created to accompany the song.

Extension: Read aloud to students an Introduction to Cinco de Mayo and then have a Cinco de Mayo celebration. Include Cinco de Mayo crafts, games, and activities or Cinco de Mayo songs, fingerplays, and group activities.

Assessment

Evaluate students on their ability to listen, follow directions, and participate in the class discussion.

Lesson Plan Source

Education World (with resources from the Florida State University Geography and Technology Education Program)

Submitted By

Linda Starr

National Standards

Social Sciences:
  NSS-G.K-12.2

Fine Arts:
  NA-M.K-4.2
  NA-M.K-4.3
  NA-M.K-4.6
  NA-M.K-4.8