Look How I Can Move
SEL Domain(s): Self-confidence
Relational Risk: Low
Grades: K-5
*Lesson may need to be modified to meet the specific needs of students
Description:
A joyful, music-based activity where students explore self-expression and cultural awareness by creating body movements in response to different multicultural music styles.
Materials Needed:
A variety of multicultural music (e.g., Latin, African, Asian, Bluegrass, Reggae)
Books or photographs related to the featured music or its cultural origin
Objective(s):
To foster self-confidence and cultural awareness
To develop listening and large motor skills
To encourage creativity and body awareness through movement
Procedure:
Introduce the Day’s Music
Play the featured music as students enter the classroom.
Invite students to gather and listen again during meeting time.
Explore the Music
Ask if anyone recognizes the music or knows where it’s from.
Guide students to describe what they hear:
Is it fast or slow?
What instruments do they notice?
How does the music make them feel?
Share background information and use books/photos to support cultural context.
Movement Exploration
Ask students to create movements that reflect how the music makes them feel.
Prompt ideas like:
Move just one body part (e.g., hands, feet)
Move in place or across the space
Use large or small movements
Performance and Participation
Younger students: Take turns showing their movement and invite others to copy.
Older students: Work alone or in groups to choreograph a simple dance.
Reflect and Extend
Create a chart capturing students’ thoughts, feelings, and discoveries about the music and movement.
