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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can compose a four beat rhythm using Ta and Ta-di and play it with a steady pulse.

      Key learning points

      1. Beat and rhythm are not the same thing. We can play rhythms successfully when we are able to hold a steady beat.
      2. Ta is one beat. Ta-di is also one beat long.
      3. When we create new music we are composers. We can choose the sounds we like.

      Keywords

      • Rhythm - the pattern of sounds that we play and sing

      • Beat - the playing or showing of the steady pulse, like the ticking of a clock

      • Chant - speaking in time to a pulse

      • Compose - to create music

      Common misconception

      Rhythm and beat are the same thing.

      The beat is the playing or showing of the steady pulse, like the ticking of a clock. The rhythm is the pattern of sounds we play and sing over the steady beat.

      Teacher tip

      Allow plenty of opportunities and activities for pupils to develop their sense of pulse. Being able to hold a steady beat is essential for playing rhythms successfully.

      Equipment

      Manipulatives can be used instead of worksheets e.g. shaping the rhythms with lollipop sticks, or using one item to represent a Ta and two small items to represent a Ta-di.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

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