Unit Plan 2 (PreK Music): Using Our Voices
PreK voice exploration unit where children practice speaking, singing, whispering, and calling voices through playful songs, echo games, and movement—building vocal control, safe voice choices for school settings, and confidence using voice types in music.
Focus: Experiment with speaking, singing, whispering, and calling voices through playful music activities.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Music (Exploring • Singing • Moving • Listening)
Total Unit Duration: 3–4 sessions (2+ weeks), 15–20 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, children explore how their voices can sound and feel different. Through short songs, chants, and call-and-response games, they practice using speaking, singing, whispering, and calling voices in safe, appropriate ways. Students begin to notice how different voices fit different purposes (storytelling, singing together, getting attention, or sharing a secret) while building confidence using their own voice in music class.
Essential Questions
- How can my voice sound different when I sing, speak, whisper, or call?
- When is it helpful to use a quiet voice, a regular speaking voice, or a strong calling voice?
- How can I use my voice to make music with my classmates?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Explore and demonstrate at least four voice types (speaking, singing, whispering, calling) during songs and chants.
- Match a requested voice type (e.g., “singing voice,” “whisper voice”) to teacher prompts in simple activities.
- Use their singing voice to participate in a short echo song or chant with the class.
- Choose an appropriate voice type for simple classroom scenarios (e.g., hallway vs. playground) and explain why.
Standards Alignment — PreK Music (NAfME-Aligned)
- MU:Cr1.1.PK — Explore musical ideas through play and improvisation. Children experiment with sounds using voice, body, and classroom instruments. Example: Making up different voice sounds for animals or weather.
- MU:Pr4.2.PK — Explore music concepts through singing and movement. Children explore pitch (high/low), loud/soft, and steady beat. Example: Singing high and low echoes using their singing voices.
Success Criteria — Student-Friendly Language
- I can show speaking, singing, whispering, and calling voices when my teacher asks.
- I can use my singing voice when our class sings a song together.
- I can choose a quiet or loud voice that fits what we are doing (inside vs. outside, story vs. game).
- I can listen and take turns so everyone’s voice can be heard.