Outcomes
Social Studies Primary, Outcome 4:
Students will recognize that people (local), including Acadians, African Nova Scotians, Gaels, Mi’Kmaq including Treaty Education and additional cultural groups, have varied traditions, historical roots, rituals and celebrations
Social Studies 1, Outcome 1:
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of cultural groups, including Acadians, African Nova Scotians, Gaels, Mi’Kmaq including Treaty Education and additional cultural groups.
Music Primary-3, Outcome 6:
Students will explore and reflect on a range of music from diverse cultures and communities including Acadians, African Nova Scotians, Gaels, and Mi’Kmaq with respect and sensitivity.
Challenge
To familiarize students with Gaelic songs and their connection to the dance and instrumental traditions of Gaelic culture.
Suggested time
1 hour
Anticipated Outcomes
Students will
- demonstrate an understanding that Gaelic songs were passed on orally.
- demonstrate an understanding that some kinds of Gaelic songs act as tunes for step dancing if instruments are not present.
- note the change in tempo between tunes using their own words.
- make connections between the sung and played tunes, i.e. matching the sung tune with its instrumental counterpart.
Procedure
- Make sure that the children are made aware of who the Gaels are. For this, we many refer to the Glossary. Some children may be familiar with the term, "Scottish". The important clarifying point is that the Gaels are the speakers of a language different from English, that being Gaelic and share a cultural expression.
- Read the section of the website titled "Òrain | Songs".
- Watch the video of step dancing to the songs. See if the children can spot the point where the tempo of the music changes.
- Learn either one or both of the mouth music songs.
- If the students have learnt the Muileann Dubh, the second song, have them watch the instructional video on the "Hop Step" and practice it themselves. Try stepping to the music!
Review and Reflection
- Poll the class to see if they know what a fiddle is. A violin? The only difference is the music that is played on the instrument. Watch the video of John MacDougall playing the songs we have learnt on the fiddle. Can the students recognize the tunes?