Unit Plan 35 (Grade K Music): Preparing to Perform
Kindergarten music unit on performance routines and respectful audience behavior—practice start/stop cues, posture, feedback, and joyful classroom sharings.
Focus: Practice performance skills and respectful audience behavior for simple classroom sharings.
Grade Level: K
Subject Area: Music (Performing • Responding • Connecting)
Total Unit Duration: 3–4 sessions (2–4 weeks), 20–30 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, kindergarten students get ready to share music with others by practicing simple performance routines and audience expectations. Through songs, chants, and short movement pieces, they learn how to start and stop together, watch the teacher for cues, and show confidence and joy while performing. They also practice how to sit, listen, and respond respectfully when classmates perform, building a safe and supportive music community.
Essential Questions
- How do I show that I am ready to perform music for my classmates?
- What does it look and sound like to be a respectful audience member?
- How can practicing and using feedback help our class sound and feel more ready to perform?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Describe and demonstrate basic performance expectations (starting and stopping together, watching the teacher, using good posture).
- Rehearse one or two simple songs or chants, using teacher feedback to improve accuracy and focus.
- Show appropriate audience behavior (quiet bodies, focused eyes, kind applause) while others perform.
- Participate in a short, informal classroom sharing that shows growing performance confidence.
Standards Alignment — Grade K Music (NAfME-Aligned)
- MU:Pr6.1.Kb — With guidance, perform music appropriately for an audience.
- Example: Singing for classmates while following performance expectations.
- MU:Pr5.1.Kb — With guidance, apply teacher-provided and collaboratively developed criteria and feedback to improve performance accuracy.
- Example: Singing again after teacher feedback to improve pitch or timing.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can show I’m ready to perform by standing or sitting tall, watching the teacher, and starting/stopping with the group.
- I can change my singing or playing after my teacher or classmates give me helpful feedback.
- I can be a respectful audience member by listening quietly, watching, and clapping at the right time.
- I can perform a song or chant for my classmates with my best focus and effort.