Our final input of integrated arts consisted of performing and recording our dance we have created over the past few weeks as well as learning to play the Ukulele within our music workshop.
During dance, we were given time to rehearse and perfect our dance before being filmed. Our group practiced different ways that we could ensure every member was given an equal chance to be seen during our performance. We worked together to come up with the best way to ensure everyone felt comfortable with the dance moves and were aware of the timings, this would be beneficial to do within a school as it ensures the children are confident and prepared. Dance is crucial within a primary school setting along with all other aspects of expressive arts it ensures children are learning new skills, developing on skills they may already have and allowing opportunities for children to express their feelings and creativity (Education Scotland, 2019). After filming and re-watching our dance we were all required to come up with 3 stars and 1 wish, within a class I would use this in many subjects not only expressive arts as it allows children to reflect on what went well and what they could improve on.
In the afternoon we participated in a music input which allowed us to learn how to play the Ukulele. We were all shown how to hold, tune and play the Ukulele. This was a very beneficial input as it can be used within a class, we used the song ‘Last Christmas’ this song only included four different cords therefore it was not extremely difficult to grasp. If I was to teach this lesson I could use different online resources such as Charanga to help in my teaching. We took each section of the song individually and practiced before playing the whole song. During this lesson we all achieved the benchmark: I can use my voice, musical instruments and music technology to discover and enjoy playing with sound, rhythm, pitch and dynamics. EXA 1-17a. (Education Scotland, 2019). This input was thoroughly enjoyable and allowed everyone in the class to have a sense of achievement when playing.
Over the past few weeks of integrated arts it has allowed me to deepen my knowledge on how I could teach expressive arts within a class. In addition this module has allowed me to see how all children can benefit from expressive arts and how easily they can be incorporated into day to day learning.
References:
Education Scotland. (2019). curriculum for excellence: expressive arts experiences and outcomes. [online] Available at: https://education.gov.scot/Documents/expressive-arts-eo.pdf [Accessed 28 Nov. 2019].
Education Scotland. (2019). Expressive arts | Curriculum areas | Learning in Scotland | Parent Zone. [online] Available at: https://education.gov.scot/parentzone/learning-in-scotland/curriculum-areas/expressive-arts/ [Accessed 28 Nov. 2019].
