This is a very adaptable activity and can be easily differentiated to meet the needs of learners. It can be used at Early Level to develop listening skills and mark making.  At First Level and above, sound mapping can be used to develop vocabulary and descriptive writing.

Make a sound map and increase your awareness of the world around you.

This activity can last from 1 minute to 5 minutes and can be repeated frequently.

You may wish to start with a short and simple  practice session.  Practice might consist of the following:

• find a space and close your eyes
• point in the direction of each new sound you hear

OR

• find a space and close your eyes
• use your fingers to count out 5 different sounds
• describe the sounds you heard  and where they came from

How to Make a Sound Map shows you how learners from Early Level upward can draw a map of what they hear.

You can also watch this video to find out more about creating a sound map.

Extend the  learning

Use the sounds you have gathered to make a ‘sound picture’.

• Replicate the sounds you have found using your voice, tapping or scraping on objects in your environment or by using simple musical instruments.  Make a ‘sound picture’ of what you have been listening to.
• Create individual sound pictures or work as a group to create a picture reflecting lots of different experiences.
• A small group will be able to make sure that each member contributes at least one sound to the group sound picture.