Music in our Schools Month
3 rd
Grade Lesson: Japan
OBJECTIVES (TSWBAT):

Learn about and explore Japanese culture.

Grow a general knowledge, appreciation, and performing ability for Taiko drumming.
 Perform “Taiko Boom” using boomwhackers.

Learn Japanese language through Sakura .
MATERIALS NEEDED:

Board

Projector

Music and Video

Boomwhackers

Gong
STANDARDS ADDRESSED:

9.1.3.B

9.1.3.D

9.2.3.A
Introduction
1) Students will begin by turning their attention to the board and learning elements of Japanese culture, geography, and music.

Map of Japan
 Art “The Wave”

Architecture

Taiko Drums
2) Students will view the video of Japanese children playing Taiko drums.
3) Students will briefly share thoughts and comments.
4)
Play “Taiko Boom” for the class while the teacher passes out boomwhackers.
Taiko Boom
1) Students will hold their boomwhackers in rest position until the song ends.
2) Students will listen to the song once more and follow along according to their color while the teacher points on the board.
3) Students will stand up and spread out, but will be in a small group along with other students with their color.
4) Students will practice slowly without the music and the teacher will point to groups as it is their color’s turn to play. Repeat as many times as necessary.
5) Students will perform with the music.

6) Switch groups as the teacher assigns, and repeat the exercise with new students on each color.
Sakura, Sakura
Students will be introduced to Japanese through learning the words and simple melody to
Sakura, Sakura .
1) Teacher will pronounce and point to words on the board and have the students repeat.
2) Teacher will describe the song and show students the English version. The class will return to the cherry blossom picture and discuss that it is a common tree in
Japan and a cultural symbol.
3) Students will learn the simple melody to Sakura and sing short phrases at a time.
4) Perform the whole song as time allows.