Earth Day Music Activities

 

 

Over the last few years, I’ve been trying to keep my song list ready for whatever holiday or event comes up. Earth Day is on April 22 every year, and my nature songs and video collection has been growing lately. I thought I’d share some of my favorites with you – in case you want to add some earth day music activities to your lessons too.

 

Understanding Earth Day

First, I introduce Earth Day and explain to students what it means and different ways we can take care of our yard, school, city, etc. I love this video – Earth Day Rap by Mr. Henry’s Music World.

 

 

 

Earth Day Rhythms

Next, I use some rhythm reading games or videos. Here’s a few that my students enjoy playing. I love using interactive and write-the-room activities for earth day music practice. You can see one that I use with my students by clicking here.

 

You can also find some great rhythmic play along videos on YouTube. Check these few out:

 

 

 

 

 

Earth Day Movement

Thirdly, I add some movement and dances to my Earth Day music activities. It’s good as a little break, and they just love adding even the simplest body percussion patterns to a song. 

 

Here’s a great movement activity for Earth Day: “The 3 R’s” by Jack Johnson. 

 

Another slightly more peaceful alternative is an adorable song, “One Little Bud.” Also, I love “Every Day” which includes sign language and a very engaging rhythm stick activity. Both of these amazing songs are from Mr. DelGaudio’s YouTube channel.

 

 

 

 

Songs for Earth Day

Finally, I add lots of Earth Day songs to my lessons. There are just so many to choose from, and I am always finding new ones to add! 

 

Two songs that I do each year for my Earth Day music lessons are “I Love the Mountains” and “Rocky Mountain” – mainly because I live and teach in the mountains! “I Love the Mountains” makes a lovely round, and I use it during my harmony lessons with 3rd-4th graders. But it is also simple enough for young students to sing and add instruments. We create a little rhythmic and Orff arrangement to the song.

 

Like I said, there are a lot of Earth Day music activities and songs. So, if you’re looking to add some to your lessons, here’s a peek at my list:

• Round and Round the Earth is Turning
• Early One Morning
• De Colores
• Planting a Garden
• Mister Sun
• Spring’s Message
• Over in the Meadow
• Old McDonald Had a Farm

 

 

Well, I hope you found an activity or idea that you can use in your own classroom! Let me know what your favorite one is by leaving a comment below, emailing me (beth@bethsmusicclassroom.com), or sending me a DM on Instagram @bethsmusicclassroom.

If you’re looking for some more instrument and Orff activities, check out this post on the song “Ding Dong Diggidiggidong.”