Lesson Plan: Introduction to Polyrhythm
Subject: Music
Duration: 30 Minutes
Audience: General Music Students
Email for Inquiries: viv.mcpherson@education.vic.gov.au
Lesson Overview
In this 30-minute lesson, students will be introduced to the concept of polyrhythm. They will learn what polyrhythm is, how it is used in various musical genres, and how to create their own simple polyrhythmic patterns.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Define polyrhythm and identify its characteristics.
- Recognise examples of polyrhythm in different musical genres.
- Create and perform their own simple polyrhythmic patterns.
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Audio samples of different musical styles featuring polyrhythm (e.g., African drumming, jazz, etc.)
- Percussion instruments (e.g., drums, shakers, etc.)
- Handouts with rhythmic patterns
Lesson Structure
1. Introduction to Polyrhythm (5 minutes)
- Begin with a discussion of rhythm in music and what makes it essential.
- Introduce the term polyrhythm and explain that it involves two or more contrasting rhythms occurring simultaneously.
- Write the definition on the whiteboard.
2. Listening Activity (10 minutes)
- Play audio samples of different songs that feature polyrhythm.
- Encourage students to listen for contrasting rhythmic patterns.
- Discuss what they hear. Ask guiding questions such as “What instruments do you hear?” and “How do the rhythms work together?”
3. Demonstration and Exploration (10 minutes)
- Using percussion instruments, demonstrate simple examples of polyrhythms.
- For instance, play a steady pulse on one drum while playing a contrasting rhythm on another.
- Invite students to join in, creating their own rhythms while one maintains a steady beat.
4. Creating Polyrhythmic Patterns (5 minutes)
- Distribute handouts with simple rhythmic patterns.
- In small groups, have students create their own polyrhythmic patterns using percussion instruments.
- Encourage them to experiment with different combinations of rhythms.
5. Conclusion and Q&A (5 minutes)
- Reconvene as a class and invite each group to perform their polyrhythmic patterns.
- Provide constructive feedback and encourage discussion on what they enjoyed and found challenging.
- Wrap up the lesson by summarising key points about polyrhythm.
Assessment
- Informal assessment based on participation in class discussions and group performances.
- Encourage self-reflection by asking students to think about how polyrhythm can be applied in their own musical practice.
Extensions
- For homework, students can explore a song of their choice that features polyrhythm and write a brief reflection on how the rhythms interact.
Additional Resources
- Books: “The Rhythm Book” by John D. Barlow
- Websites: Access free online tutorials on polyrhythm techniques.
- Videos: YouTube channels dedicated to percussion and rhythm education.
This lesson plan provides a foundational understanding of polyrhythm, engaging students through listening, creation, and performance activities. Feedback from students’ experiences will help refine future lessons on rhythm and musical concepts.