Unit Overview: Reggae Rhythms: Chords and Accompaniment

Lesson 1: Introduction to Reggae and Ukulele Basics

Objective: Understand Reggae music fundamentals and learn foundational ukulele techniques.

 Activities:

 Discussion: Introduction to Reggae history and characteristics.

 Ukulele Basics: Learn basic ukulele chords (C, F, G, Am).

 Strumming Patterns: Practice basic Reggae strumming patterns.

 Group Practice: Play simple Reggae rhythms as a class.

Lesson 2: Exploring Reggae Chords and Accompaniment

Objective: Learn chord progressions and accompaniment techniques for Reggae songs.

 Activities:

 Chord Progressions: Introduce common Reggae chord progressions (e.g., C-G-Am-F).

 Off-beat Chords: Practice off-beat strumming pattern for Reggae feel.

 Accompaniment Styles: Experiment with different ukulele accompaniment styles.

 Group Practice: Play chord progressions together, focusing on syncopation.

Lesson 3: Learning "Three Little Birds" Verse and Chorus

Objective: Learn the verse and chorus of "Three Little Birds" by Bob Marley.

 Activities:

 Song Introduction: Introduce "Three Little Birds" as a classic Reggae song.

 Ukulele Accompaniment: Learn chord progression and off-beat strumming pattern.

 Vocal Practice: Practice singing lyrics with phrasing and dynamics.

 Group Rehearsal: Combine ukulele accompaniment and vocals.

Lesson 4: Refining Performance and Adding Syncopation

Objective: Refine ensemble playing and add syncopation to the performance.

 Activities:

 Syncopation Techniques: Introduce syncopated rhythms and accents.

 Performance Rehearsal: Rehearse "Three Little Birds" with added syncopation.

  Individual Feedback: Provide guidance on playing and singing simultaneously.

 Group Feedback: Provide feedback on pulse, syncopation, and ensemble

performance.

Lesson 5: Reggae Performance and Assessment

Objective: Showcase and assess final Reggae performance.

 Activities:

 Final Rehearsal: Rehearse and adjust performance as needed.

 Performance: Small ensembles perform "Three Little Birds" with ukulele and vocals:

 Criteria: Off-beat ukulele chords, syncopated rhythms, clear vocals, playing

and singing simultaneously.

 Chords: C, F, G, Am (C-G-Am-F progression).

 Assessment: Evaluate ensemble performance, syncopation, and individual

challenges.

 Feedback and Reflection: Post-performance session for reflection and feedback.