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Learning to play the Ukulele is a perfect way to introduce students to playing an instrument. String instruments are one of the best instruments for fine-tuning their listening skills, especially if the students want to continue onto orchestra, band, or choir. Because it is light, not nearly as expensive as other instruments, and very easy to learn, it gives students that want to learn an instrument, outside of school, an opportunity to learn on their own. I plan on using the ukuleles to help students understand how to collaborate in order to make music, while also working on their literacy and math skills, by teaching them another way to use what they have already learned. Giving the students a chance to combine fine motor skills with reading is terrific for exercising their brains. For example, learning to play an instrument requires a great deal of practice, so this will help the students to become problem solvers, while at the same time, building upon their patience. Another benefit from learning to play an instrument is the improvement of memory and recall, which are essential skills needed for reading and math. Last but not least, when students learn to play an instrument in an ensemble setting, it requires them to use and work on their social skills. Collaborating with peers is imperative in music, whether it be working on a single part, or putting multiple parts together. Learning together and being able to respectfully give or receive feedback is not only something that will benefit them in an ensemble setting, but it will help in the future, when they begin their careers. Musicians must learn, early on, that when you are assigned a role in the ensemble, you are contributing to the group, and accountability is very important for lifelong success.

About my class

Learning to play the Ukulele is a perfect way to introduce students to playing an instrument. String instruments are one of the best instruments for fine-tuning their listening skills, especially if the students want to continue onto orchestra, band, or choir. Because it is light, not nearly as expensive as other instruments, and very easy to learn, it gives students that want to learn an instrument, outside of school, an opportunity to learn on their own. I plan on using the ukuleles to help students understand how to collaborate in order to make music, while also working on their literacy and math skills, by teaching them another way to use what they have already learned. Giving the students a chance to combine fine motor skills with reading is terrific for exercising their brains. For example, learning to play an instrument requires a great deal of practice, so this will help the students to become problem solvers, while at the same time, building upon their patience. Another benefit from learning to play an instrument is the improvement of memory and recall, which are essential skills needed for reading and math. Last but not least, when students learn to play an instrument in an ensemble setting, it requires them to use and work on their social skills. Collaborating with peers is imperative in music, whether it be working on a single part, or putting multiple parts together. Learning together and being able to respectfully give or receive feedback is not only something that will benefit them in an ensemble setting, but it will help in the future, when they begin their careers. Musicians must learn, early on, that when you are assigned a role in the ensemble, you are contributing to the group, and accountability is very important for lifelong success.

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About my class

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