RHYTHM

Rhythm is the pattern of Music created by beats!

WHAT DO WE USE TO CREATE RHYTHM?

When writing Music, we use different notes to tell us how many beats to count.

We are only going to be looking at crotchets, quavers and crotchet rests.

A crotchet counts for one beat.
 A quaver counts for half a beat. When two quavers are joined together they count for one beat, like a crotchet.
A crotchet rest counts for one beat of silence.

HOW DO WE READ RHYTHM?

When we read or speak a rhythm pattern out loud, we use different words for the different notes.

A crotchet is called TA
Two quavers joined together are called TI-TI
A crotchet rest is called ZA

This makes it easier for us to speak our rhythm patters out loud, using our voices!

HOW DO WE WRITE A RHYTHM PATTERN?

When writing a rhythm pattern, we use these notes and put them in different orders.

HOW CAN WE USE OUR VOICES?

Now that you can read and write basic rhythm, you can use your voice to say it!

While you are saying the rhythm, it’s a good idea to clap the beats at the same time to help you keep the beat.

Sometimes we don’t need the notes to be able to read a rhythm pattern, only words.

CAN YOU CREATE YOUR OWN RHYTHM PATTERN?

Now that you know a little bit more about rhythm, you can have a go at creating your own! Use the grid below to write your own pattern.
You can use the words (TA, TI-TI, ZA) or try to write the notes!

Once you are happy with your pattern, use your voice and say it out loud!

You could also find a friend and take turns saying each others patterns. Don’t forget to clap your pattern too to keep the beat!

LETS LISTEN TO SOME RHYTHM!

In Aboriginal culture, rhythm is kept using traditional instruments called Clapping Sticks. These are played for song and dance and help keep the beat.

Have a listen to the rhythm that these Aboriginal dancers are moving to in the video below. Try clapping along!

WHAT DID YOU THINK?

Ask yourself these questions as you reflect on the video you’ve just seen.

Q. How would you describe the clapping sticks?

Q. Did they keep the same rhythm the whole time or change it?

Q.  How did the dancers use their voices?

Q. Could you clap along with them? Was it an easy rhythm to follow?