Rhythm Dictation - Donkey Konga

My SGI students are currently working on the unit of Rhythm.  One popular method of developing rhythmical skills is through the use of software/video games that have a rhythm focus.  One such example is Donkey Konga.

Donkey Konga uses plastic bongos to control the game.  Students are instructed to use four specific actions: left, right, both, and clap. These actions are displayed on the screen to match the rhythm of popular songs such as "We Will Rock You", "Wild Thing", and of course "The Donkey Kong Rap".

To play Donkey Konga in class, a student must first earn a credit through music dictation.  The teacher will clap a rhythm aloud to the class, wherein the students must take what they hear and write it out correctly using music notation.   This allows them to associate certain patterns with specific notation symbols.  

Using Donkey Konga in class is one way that I can make learning rhythms much more engaging for your child!  Don't be surprised if they come home telling you they've learned how to Konga!!