L4 MS E

English

Ladybird

New Unit!

Unit A

The overarching aim of this introductory activity is to spark curiosity and gather essential aural experience. The song, Ladybird, is one of a collection of traditional melodies set to music by Johannes Brahms. This initial activity offers opportunities for learners to experience musical elements from a sensory point of view. These elements will be presented more formally in later learning activities.

TEACHER GUIDE

LYRICS

LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Introduction

The aim of this activity is to memorise the lyrics of the song, Ladybird, in preparation for learning the melody.

Learn the Lyrics

This introductory activity presents a performance of Ladybird by an ensemble including violin, cello, guitar, piano and voice in an audio-only form. Without visual stimulation, learners can focus fully on the sonic musical experience of listening. This will be the first time learners will hear the familiar lyrics married to the melody.

Listen and Enjoy (audio)

This activity uses a performance of the song, Ladybird, by an ensemble of violin, cello, piano, guitar, and voice as the inspiration for the creation of something new. Each learner will create an illustration to accompany the lyric page to add to their Music Journal.

LISTEN AND ENJOY (AUDIO)

LYRICS (for printing)

Create a Music Journal Entry

This video presents the song, Ladybird, in a video rendition. Learners can enjoy watching and listening while preparing for the next step - learning the melody.

 Listen and Enjoy (video)

The aim of this activity is for learners to begin to develop the aural and vocal skill required to be able to sing with accuracy the first verse of Ladybird. This song offers an opportunity for learners to experience the lyrical melody and anacrusic rhythmic structure of this beautiful song by Johannes Brahms. Aim to enjoy these sensation from a purely sensory point of view at this stage. These elements will be presented more formally at a later stage.

Learn the Melody (Verse 1)

The aim of this activity is for learners to begin to develop the aural and vocal skill required to be able to sing with accuracy the second verse of Ladybird. This song offers an opportunity for learners to experience the lyrical melody and anacrusic rhythmic structure of this beautiful song by Johannes Brahms. Aim to enjoy these sensation from a purely sensory point of view at this stage. These elements will be presented more formally at a later stage.

Learn the Melody (Verse 2)

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.emsona.com/en/student/courses/31149/watch/?enrollment_id=2327880&amp;lesson_id=485827" style="background-color: rgb(106, 252, 194); color: black; padding: 15px 30px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; display: inline-block; font-size: 18px; border-radius: 6px;">Get Started!</a>DescriptionThis thoughtfully designed unit welcomes early learners into musical discovery through the beloved song Ladybird, a traditional melody beautifully set by Johannes Brahms. The journey begins with storytelling and recitation, allowing children to connect emotionally with the lyrics about kindness to nature and the wonder of small creatures.Through gentle repetition and playful echo-back techniques, learners gradually absorb the words while building confidence in their own voices. Team-based activities foster collaboration and social connection as children practice call-and-answer patterns together.The unit then introduces the melody through carefully sequenced listening experiences. First, an audio-only presentation helps children focus purely on sound, training their ears to follow musical elements. Later, a video performance adds visual dimension to their understanding.Creative expression flourishes as learners illustrate their personal interpretations of the song, connecting music with visual art. This multisensory approach honors different learning styles while building a personal Music Journal that celebrates individual growth.Throughout these activities, children naturally develop concentration, memory skills, and appreciation for beauty in both music and the natural world. The unit requires no prior musical experience, making it an ideal starting point for nurturing lifelong musical joy.Learning Outcomes- Listen attentively and follow musical performances with focus and concentration- Memorize and recite lyrics using collaborative techniques including echo-back and call-and-answer methods- Recognize and describe story elements, characters, and themes within song lyrics- Express personal responses to music through discussion and creative illustration- Develop awareness of musical elements including melody, tone, and instrumental textures- Build confidence in musical participation through supportive group activitiesNotes and TipsListening Focus: Encourage learners to close their eyes during audio listening to help create mental images and deepen concentration.Musical Features: The performance includes two verses in different keys, F Major and G Major, which creates a subtle shift in vocal tone and color that observant learners may notice.Team Configurations: For echo-back and call-and-answer activities, create flexible team arrangements such as teacher-to-class, half-class divisions, small groups, or individual pairs to maintain engagement.Creative Process: Before beginning illustrations, consider playing the audio performance again to refresh inspiration and help learners visualize the story.Music Journal: Establish a collection system for learner work throughout the year to document musical growth and celebrate progress.Discussion Approach: Keep conversations open-ended without expectations, allowing children to describe their observations in their own words, which often reveals surprising insights.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.emsona.com/en/student/courses/31149/watch/?enrollment_id=2327880&amp;lesson_id=485827" style="background-color: rgb(106, 252, 194); color: black; padding: 15px 30px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; display: inline-block; font-size: 18px; border-radius: 6px;">Get Started!</a>

This introductory unit invites young learners into the world of music through a gentle traditional melody. Children explore storytelling, nature appreciation, and musical expression while building foundational listening skills and creativity.

Course content

Ladybird (Unit A)

Adele O'Dwyer