Unit Plan 29 (PreK Music): Rhythm & Movement Games

Focus: Apply beat and rhythm through fun, structured movement games.

Grade Level: PreK

Subject Area: Music (Exploring • Performing • Responding • Connecting)

Total Unit Duration: 2–3 sessions (2+ weeks), 20–30 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Children turn the music room into a playful game space where they move, clap, and play along with a steady beat. Through simple, repeatable games (like passing a beat around the circle or moving and freezing with music), they learn that music has a steady “heart beat” and that their bodies can show it. They also practice taking turns, stopping and starting together, and celebrating each other’s efforts.

Essential Questions

• How can we show the steady beat with our bodies while we play games?
• What does it look and sound like when we all play together and listen to the music?
• How can rhythm and beat games help us practice waiting, taking turns, and working as a team?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Children will be able to:

1. Move, clap, tap, or play instruments to show a steady beat during simple music games.
2. Join in call-and-response or echo patterns using body percussion and/or instruments.
3. Follow basic game rules (start, stop, wait turn) while staying with the group’s beat.
4. Share simple comments about which games they enjoyed and how the music made them feel.

Standards Alignment — PreK Music (NAfME-Aligned)

• MU:Pr4.1.PK — Demonstrate awareness of music through movement and sound.
  • Children respond physically or vocally to music they hear.
  • Example: Moving fast to fast music, slow to slow music.
• MU:Pr5.1.PK — Perform music with expression and enjoyment.
  • Children sing, chant, or move with engagement and confidence.
  • Example: Singing familiar songs with gestures.

Success Criteria — Child-Friendly Language

• I can move my body or play an instrument to match the steady beat.
• I can play and stop when the music and teacher tell me to.
• I can wait my turn and share the game with my friends.
• I can say which music game I liked and how it made me feel.