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Trains
Across America
Trains Across America was created because my students had
questions about why music repeats sections. I have
explained that music is repeated in a lot of cases because the
composer is trying to send a message to the listener.
Trains Across America is arranged as a verse and refrain
songbook that also contains historical facts about the
railroad. Students love to study the era of the creation
of the railroad and this book holds their interest. I
never have any problems with behavior or lack of interest
because the students are engaged in what they are learning.
The book has the same pages every time the refrain appears,
which helps the students visually and aurally understand that
sections are being repeated. This also helps very young
children learn how to read, as they will recognize the
pictures and see the same text. They will get very
comfortable repeating the text as you turn the pages.
The song, "Trains Across America," is included in
the back of the book. You will find this a very upbeat
song that the children will love. An entire concert can
be done about trains very easily and this song can be a great
opener and crowd pleaser. Have the students wear
conductor hats in the concert that they make in art class,
which will allow you to cross curriculum with art.
Teachers can read other books about trains, so you will also
cross curriculum with academic classes. The students
will soon be bringing books to your class that they checked
out from the library, because the interest will grow
phenomenally.
Jerrad Seibert has, once again, drawn the pages for this book.
He is now 22. I hope you enjoy the pictures.
If you have any questions regarding the book or what to do
with your music curriculum, please contact me. I am more
than happy to share ideas. The important part of
teaching music is to create an awareness of the love for music
that students instinctively have because they are human and to
keep that awareness growing. |
