Fourth Graders are studying the science of sound and how it relates to instruments. All instruments can be classified scientifically one of four ways, based on how their sound is produced: Chordophones (vibration of strings), Aerophones (vibration of air), Membranophones (vibration of skin), or Idiophones (vibration of self).
Students have the assignment of constructing an instrument of their own, must be able to identify their instrument's scientific classification, and must complete written directions for the construction of their instrument. All instruments and written directions are due on the following days for each class:
Wharton: Monday, March 12th, 2012
Rankin: Wednesday, March 14th, 2012
Hale: Thursday, March 15th, 2012
Students will be given time in music class to browse information on instrument construction as well as make notes for their ideas. In addition, the following websites have wonderful ideas to assist in this project:
How to make an African Drum
Artists Helping Children
E-How videos on instrument construction
How Stuff Works
Busy Bee Kids Crafts
Making Musical Instruments on essortment.com
Mudcat Kids
Kinderart.com
Family Crafts from About.com
Family Fun instrument crafts
Nancymusic.com
Rhythmweb.com Homemade instruments
I hope this list is helpful! AND I can't wait to see what instruments make their way into my room in the next weeks! Good Luck!
