📖

Playing Chopsticks

Introduction to Keyboard (Optional)

Day 124of 180
Week 25of 36
25Minutes
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🖨️ Download Worksheet (PDF)

Learning Objectives

1

Learn the basic melody of Chopsticks on keyboard

2

Practice correct finger placement and coordination

3

Develop patience and perseverance while learning a new skill

Psalm 33:3

Sing to him a new song. Play skillfully with a loud noise.

Psalm 33:3 (WEB)

Encourages learning music with joy and dedication

📦 Materials Needed

  • Keyboard or piano
  • Keyboard diagram
  • Pencil
  • BibleMouse Music Practice Sheet

Lesson Plan

1Opening (3 min)

Remind student about previous keyboard lessons and hand positioning

💭 Review Question: Can you show me where the C, D, and E keys are located?
2Teaching (8 min)

Introduce Chopsticks melody step-by-step

📌 Key Talking Points:
  • Today we'll learn a fun song called Chopsticks
  • We'll use our first two fingers on each hand
  • Remember to keep fingers curved like in our last lesson
💬 Discussion Questions:
  • What makes a song fun to play?
  • How can we practice to get better?
3Activity: Chopsticks Melody Practice (10 min)
practice

Learn and practice the basic Chopsticks melody

📝 Instructions:
  1. Place right index finger on E key
  2. Place left index finger on C key
  3. Tap keys alternately to create Chopsticks rhythm
  4. Practice slowly, then gradually increase speed
🔄 Variations:

Simpler: Use only one finger per hand, move more slowly

Challenge: Try adding rhythm variations or playing with eyes closed

4Closing (3 min)

Review what was learned and celebrate small victories

📝 Review Questions:
  • What was challenging about learning Chopsticks?
  • What part did you enjoy most?

Coming up: Tomorrow we'll perform Chopsticks and talk about musical tempo

Teaching Notes

📚 Background:

Chopsticks is a simple, playful melody that helps children develop basic keyboard skills

💡 Teaching Tips:
  • Be patient and encouraging
  • Praise effort over perfection
  • Make practice feel like a fun game
🤔 Common Struggles:

Coordinating both hands, maintaining correct finger placement

👀 Signs of Understanding:

Steady rhythm, correct finger positioning, enjoyment of playing

Extension Activities

  • Record a short Chopsticks performance to share with family
  • Draw a picture of yourself playing the keyboard

Ready for Tomorrow?

Great job completing today's lesson!

Continue to Day 125Back to Music