Unit Plan 17 (PreK Music): Musical Turn-Taking
PreK music unit teaching start/stop cues, turn-taking, and listening skills through fun games and instruments to build teamwork and musical sharing.
Focus: Practice starting, stopping, and waiting during group music so children learn to take turns and make space for others’ sounds.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Music (Creating • Performing • Responding • Connecting)
Total Unit Duration: 2–3 sessions (2+ weeks), 20–30 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, children learn what it means to take turns in music activities: sometimes they play, sometimes they wait and listen. Through simple circle games, “stop/go” songs, and instrument turns, they practice starting and stopping with a signal and waiting patiently for their turn. They begin to understand that making music together means sharing space, listening to others, and following simple group rules.
Essential Questions
- How do we know when it is our turn to make music and when it is time to listen?
- Why is starting and stopping together important when we make music in a group?
- How does waiting for a turn show kindness and respect for classmates?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Children will be able to:
- Follow a clear start and stop signal (voice, drum, or gesture) during simple musical games.
- Take turns playing instruments or moving while waiting quietly for others’ turns.
- Share a simple musical idea (a short rhythm, motion, or sound choice) with the group when it is their turn.
- Talk briefly about how it feels to wait, to go, and to share turns in music.
Standards Alignment — PreK Music (NAfME-Informed)
- MU:Pr5.1.PK — Perform music with expression and enjoyment. Children sing, chant, move, and play instruments with engagement and attention to group cues.
- Example: Starting and stopping when the teacher raises or lowers a hand.
- MU:Cr3.1.PK — Share musical ideas with others. Children present simple musical ideas through singing, playing, or movement for others to hear and see.
- Example: Each child plays a short rhythm pattern on a drum during their turn.
Success Criteria — Child-Friendly Language
- I can start and stop my sound when the teacher gives the signal.
- I can wait quietly while my friends have their turn.
- I can share one short sound or movement idea when it is my turn.
- I can say how it feels to take turns and make music together.