Quack, Quack, Quack

Children love to sing the simple song, Five Little Ducks. As the children quack, quack, quack and match sounds and rhymes in this activity, they experience the fun of onomatopoeia. Onomatopoeia occurs when a word imitates or sounds like the actual word (like quack, oink, meow, swoosh, etc.) Although the children don't need to refer to the term onomatopoeia, they will benefit from experiencing it.

Not only do children get to work on sounds with this singing game, but they can also practice counting backwards from 5 to zero, as well as other concepts. There would be many ways for children to use manipulatives or act out the song to reinforce the mathematics and language involved. Get out the yellow feathers and have a quack-fest or find a similar song or poem to play with! Everyone will benefit. (author/nmb)

This simple singing activity provides an opportunity for all children to sing and/or move while they have some fun with number words and rhyme. Although this song is about five little ducks, other rhyming songs or chants would be good, too, depending on the topic of interest to the children (Johnny plays with one hammer or five snowmen)

It may be that some children could address items from their IEP’s during this lesson by clapping or making sounds/actions, or making eye or other movements to the music, using number words, participating with the group, and so on. It may be helpful to use instruments or taped music for children that have impaired hearing or have objects to touch or point to for children with language delays, but also watch to see if objects and props distract children’s attention more than support their participation.

If you want more ideas for your inclusive classroom, you may find what you are looking for on the Planning Options pages of the REC. (author/nmb)