This activity requires little organisation and can take 10 to 15 minutes.

Talking points after reading Even George

In a classroom every person has their place too. In an orchestra every instrument is important and has its place.

Everyone has their own voice.

Do you think George was part of the class at the beginning of the story? Did we hear George’s own voice?

What happened when George joined in? Do you think the other students benefited?

Let’s make some music together!

Requirements :-One percussion instrument per child including an additional triangle for the teacher.

The children sit in a circle while the teacher plays the triangle with a steady rhythm for about 10 seconds.

Explain that you are playing solo not an orchestra.

Next let each child pass the triangle around the circle playing 3 beats and saying the 3 syllables of the words Even George with each beat. (Ev/en George)

How did you feel when you only played and heard just one instrument?

Now it’s orchestra time

Explain that next everyone is going to be in the orchestra.

Give each child an instrument explaining that they need to be quiet until you say PLAY and then stop playing when you say FREEZE.

Say PLAY

Let them play all together for 10 seconds.

Say FREEZE

Ask the students to share their ideas about being part of the class orchestra.