Put 5-6 instruments in a box so the children can’t see what you're playing. Play it, and they identify the instrument. It’s a great way to introduce them to the timbre of unpitched instruments, and to help build their vocabulary as they learn the names of all the instruments!

Ask the students if the sound of the instrument is high or low.

Create word rhythm patterns using the names of classroom instruments.
Decide how to play those rhythms. You could use body percussion, found sounds or instruments.

Warm up your voices by echoing mi so la patterns

Teach the song by rote and play the game.

Players 1 and 2 join hands. Players 3 and 4 join hands above Player 1 and 2’s hands. All hands remain joined throughout the song. All rock back and forth as they sing. On the words “number one pops under” Player 1 ducks underneath the hands of Players 3 and 4. On the next verse Player 2 also pops under. Players 3 and 4 follow in verses three and four. In verse five everybody is huddled together and hops around in a circle. At the end of verse five everyone lets hands go and they burst free.

If the actual singing game is too difficult for your students, have each child choose a partner and see-saw back and forth as they sing.

Another simpler game alternative would be to play the game with a stretchy band. Designate students as numbers 1-2- 3-4-5. At the end of the song only those students who are number five will still be holding the band. All the others will be in the center.

Listen to the singer on the recording and just add actions the first time you sing this song. Try to remember all the actions as you go. As the song goes along the students will be able to join in the singing of all the words.

Teach the song by rote. Sing or play a phrase and have the students echo.

Sing the echoes!