I’ve Been Working On the Railroad
Switch up this well-known American working song by adding a Canadian story.
Song Theme: transportation
My Paddle’s Keen and Bright
Paddle with this rhythmic round in a Canadian icon (canoe).
Bluenose Bluenose
Swimming or sailing —they both mean summer in Canada.
Sing it once, or again and again leaving out parts each time.
Twinkle Car
Why would someone drive a rusty car? Sing on (old tune very new arrangement) to speculate!
I’m A Little Piece of Tin
Clear the way – honk, honk – here I come! Read the rhythms and solfa with the mp4s!
Jingle Bells
This song has been around the world traveling wherever Americans have traveled,
including outer space! Join in the chorus, dance to the tune or just enjoy the beat.
She’ll Be Comin’ ‘Round the Mountain
Traditional words in a rollicking folksong … add the actions and test memories with this tongue twister.
Rig a Jig Jig
Explore ways of moving down the street (sidewalk) in this old, familiar song.
Down By The Station
“Puffer bellies” is a delightful phrase —fun to say and consider, even if we’re not exactly sure what it means. Grade 1 students may find it too challenging to sing this as a round, however, simple harmony may be added by having half the class sing/repeat the “Puff, puff, choo, choo” as the rest sing the song.
The Wheels On The Bus
Make the wheels go round and the wipers swish, etc. with hand motions for this well-known song. Check out Stella Blackstone’s book for a trip to Guatemala with the bus or try the well-known interpretation by Paul Zelinsky.
