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      Rhythm grids and the subdivision of the beat

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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can decode and compose rhythm grid notation that shows the subdivision of the beat.

      Key learning points

      1. Notes can have shorter or longer durations. When we combine these we create rhythms.
      2. We can subdivide the beat on a rhythm grid to help us decode, play and notate rhythms successfully.
      3. Chanting Takadimi can help us work out how to read and play rhythms.
      4. When we layer different rhythm patterns, we create a thicker texture.

      Keywords

      • Rhythm grid - a visual grid system to represent and perform rhythmic patterns

      • Duration - the length of a sound or silence

      • Syllable - a part of a word pronounced as one unit of sound, for example ‘syll’ in ‘syllable’

      • Ostinato - a repeating musical pattern which can be rhythmic or melodic

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

      Common misconception

      Notes of short duration means the music is a really fast tempo.

      The pulse and beat sets the tempo. It doesn't matter how many sounds fit into the beat.

      Teacher tip

      You may wish to incorporate any favourite singing games that help pupils develop a strong sense of pulse.

      Equipment

      Optional - a variety of unpitched percussion (class set)

      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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