Hey peoplezz! I can’t believe this is my final blog post.  I am not gonna lie I happy because it is almost holiday and I deff need one!!!

This module taught me a lot and I really seem to enjoy music a lot more now!

Music is life, that’s why our hearts have two beats

Every educator, in my opinion, should assume responsibility for teaching music and performing arts and study as much as they can. Work out engaging lessons and watch YouTube videos for ideas, and when you see the delight on the learners' faces, you'll understand how much it meant to them. I am familiar with music themes because I have a music background; but, I am not a drama person, so this part was new to me. I am now able to use music activities and teach music skills informally and professionally after finishing this session. What amazes me is the influence of music on brain development even before the child is born.

I also believe it is critical to combine other areas of study, such as arithmetic, language, and life skills, into your music session. This will aid in overall development and the creation of a good learning environment. In the future, I should strive to be more inclusive when it comes to music. I'm familiar with Afrikaans, English, and classical music, but not much else.

This session provided us with several ideas and examples that I may use to offer my own music classes. I was very intrigued by your use of technology when providing a body percussion class. When you offer a presentation with images and music, the learners love it lot more and learn much faster. It is also critical for students to sing and hear their own voices rather than simply listening to music.

 What I've learnt about music in the LSKM 221 module is that it's more than simply playing instruments and memorizing notes. It instils significance in someone's life, knowledge of many instruments from other nations and cultures, enlightens us on diverse methods of teaching music in classrooms, and is both exciting and engaging. Having music as a part of ourselves improves our days and helps us to see life in a new way.

I believe that conducting individual reflections on a regular basis is beneficial for tracking your development on specific themes. Your grasp of the issue, as well as where you may grow, is beneficial for increasing existing skills on ideas.

I liked the examples of activities that our lecturer provided (for example, videos of games that we may play with the learners that contain music). I had a great time!

What I found difficult was bringing music into courses such that students learned what they needed to know while also having fun and testing their existing knowledge. Learners must also study on their own and come to their own conclusions about ideas. In this manner, kids build their own judgment.

I don't believe there is anything I would alter. Every study unit, in my opinion, is unique and complements each other in explaining every aspect of music.

Heyyy guyz!

Hope all is well? J

My week has been going OK I guess. It’s raining so that’s amazing, however since I live on the farm the lights have been going and don’t let me get started on the Wi-Fi problems…….UGH!!!! :-/ 

What is the significance of lesson preparation?

At its core, lesson preparation is the structure that allows pupils to learn. Without a lesson plan, you compromise efficiency, don't serve every student, and risk pupils merely improving by chance at the end of the year. Music will help teach youngsters time management and disciplinary abilities. Students will gain the skills to design a practice regimen if they are expected to study their instruments and practice outside of school. They will be able to balance all of the other activities in their lives.

Your classes will comprise an introduction, content, and a conclusion. You will not need to include all of the specifics in your lesson plans, only the key activities or songs you will be teaching. Keeping the class moving and having three to four transitions (depending on what you've prepared) helps to keep the kids engaged.

**Benefits of Lesson Planning:                                                                                                                                       

1. Providing instructors with direction.                                                                                                                 
2. Clarifying instructors' learning objectives.                                                                                                                
3. Improving the calibre of instruction.                                                                                                                                                                  
4. Allowing for the visualization of the complete instructional process.                                                                                                                                                                                  
5. Making it easy for children to learn.

**What are the difficulties of lesson planning?                                                                                                                 

1. Every week, my student and I spend a lot of time just conversing.                                                                                          
2. I never have enough time to finish the last section of my class.                                                                                                       
3. My teachings seldom go as planned.                                                                                                                                      
4. I don't believe children retain the abilities they acquire from week to week.                                                                                     
5. Are my pupil is eager to learn!

• What could the possible reasons be that assessment is neglected in Performing Arts and Music in the Foundation Phase?

1. Teachers do not have enough time to develop lessons for performing arts and music. Inadequate time for performing arts in the classroom since instructors must cover academic content.                                            
2. There is insufficient time throughout the school day. The school may not be a creative school in which such activities are planned or carried out.                                                                                                                       
3. Teachers believe it will be of little use to kids or that students would be uninterested.                                         
4. The school may lack the resources and equipment needed for students to participate in such activities.  It's possible that the school where they are doesn't have all of the essential technologies in school for music.                                                                                                                                                         
5. There may not be any qualified or trained instructors at the school to incorporate music into the curriculum.                                                                                                                                                                               
6.  The classroom climate can have an effect, as can a lack of resources.                                                                                         
7. Teachers may believe that participating in music for students is unnecessary.

• Please explain how you would advocate for and heighten awareness about the importance of assessment when speaking with your HOD about your concerns in this regard.

With the information I've gained about the advantages of music and the performing arts, I'd want to express my thoughts on the significance of evaluation and why it should be prioritized in all subjects. I would want to talk with the Head of Department and convey that throughout my observation, I noted that assessment is not a frequent occurrence and that it should be made a priority. I would explain to them that I feel this should be prioritized because of all the benefits that music has on a growing learner, and that if we are to keep their best interests in mind, evaluation is required. Assessment not only enables us to evaluate how they are progressing, but it also allows us to identify what areas a student may be struggling with. At the end of the day, it is our responsibility as instructors to always keep our students in mind and do what is best for them. We must provide them with the skills and information that will benefit them throughout their lives and this must begin in the foundation phase. Assessment must be completed, and it must be made a priority in every school.

I'll demonstrate how music may help students in a variety of ways. Explain how students like music and how it may benefit their academics in general. I'll describe how music helps students develop various abilities, including independence, creativity, and confidence. I will explain to the HOD that music and performing arts help students to express themselves constructively in the classroom and provide a safe environment for students. I will go on to explain that it is necessary to teach performing arts, music, dance and so on as part of the life skills curriculum. I will also go through the many methods in which these activities should be carried out in order to support learners in other topic areas. I will provide many ideas and activities to demonstrate to the HOD how music may be utilized.

Hey guys!

Dammm, but this week has been hectic. I am busy catching-up with all my work and assignments.

But good news; I feel like I needed after the hectic mouth I had. My best friend/ neighbour is getting married J J J

1. Arts integration is a waste of time in Foundation Phase schooling, according to the image outcome. But what exactly does it mean to incorporate the arts, and how does it benefit student learning? The term "arts integration" refers to "education through the arts."

Arts integration engages students and provides a range of opportunities for them to develop and express learning. Arts integration assists instructors in rethinking their responsibilities and connections with pupils. Arts integration assists instructors in rethinking their responsibilities and connections with pupils.

Teaching through the arts may graphically portray complex topics, making them easier to comprehend. Children benefit from art education in the development of motor abilities, linguistic skills, social skills, decision-making, risk-taking, and originality.

2. Students participate in a CREATIVE PROCESS that CONNECTS an art form and another subject area while meeting EVOLVING OBJECTIVES in both (Silverstein & Layne, 2010)

Arts integration encourages teaching and learning techniques that target goals in many areas at the same time, while also encouraging students to show their grasp of topics and abilities via the arts. Arts integration strategies provide learners with the opportunity to learn in a way that prioritizes in-depth understanding of new concepts and skills on a practical level over the introduction of abstract symbols – learners must engage in authentic music activities (such as singing, moving, and drawing what they hear in the music), (include singing, dancing, and sketching what they hear in the music) before beginning to introduce music notation.

When applying arts integration principles in the foundation phase, we must engage learners in teaching and learning activities that encourage them to draw on prior knowledge with the goal of discovering new concepts and skills and demonstrating their understanding in a practical way through the arts (Silverstein & Layne, 2010).

•  I had a great time viewing the YouTube videos and learning how to successfully use music into a math lesson. Rather than reading about options for incorporating music, I felt as though I were in the classroom witnessing the session. It was really beneficial in putting things into perspective. To be honest, I underestimated the value of art until I discovered how vital and useful it is to students. These concepts and techniques will undoubtedly find their way into my future classroom.
• The subject the 'growth via teaching and learning' was the most difficult for me. I found it perplexing and didn't see much of a distinction between the many ways music may be employed in the classroom.

Hey guyz! Hope all is well?

I had the craziest week ever. My uncle passed awayL. It’s been a hectic week. It was so sudden. My mums not taking it too well.  But we all there for her.

It's challenging to meet the requirements of all students, regardless of their cultural, religious, or ethnic backgrounds, without offending or stomping on toes. It's challenging to meet the requirements of all students, regardless of their cultural, religious, or ethnic backgrounds, without offending or stomping on toes. All other cultures and beliefs should be taught to students, and the adult must guarantee that they respect and understand one other. Children should feel comfortable, and they should be able to communicate if they are unsure or in danger. All other cultures and beliefs should be taught to students, and the adult must guarantee that they respect and understand one other. Furthermore, the various types of degrees of social play have taught me that through each level of play, children of various ages create relationships and develop crucial social skills. Children should feel comfortable, and they should be able to communicate if they are unsure or in danger. Furthermore, the various types of degrees of social play have taught me that through each level of play, children of various ages create relationships and develop crucial social skills. They will feel that they are a member of the group and will not be left out of the action. I've learned that there are three sorts of play: free play, guided play, and directed play, and that each type of play helps students acquires distinct skills and concepts. They will feel that they are a member of the group and will not be left out of the action. As a teacher, you should always check for understanding and ensure that everyone is on the same page. You should also check for clarity and assist students who are still unsure about a concept or topic. Learners who do not grasp what is expected of them or the subject or concept being taught are more likely to feel excluded, unmotivated, shy, or ashamed.

When it comes to Foundation Phase children's play, I've learned that there's more to it than just 'playing.' Children learn via play, as evidenced by various cognitive development programs. I've discovered that there are three forms of play: free play, guided play, and directed play, and that each style of play helps learners acquire distinct abilities and concepts. Furthermore, the many stages of social play have shown me that children of all ages are acquiring key social skills and forming relationships via each level of play.

The notion that jumped out the most to me was the seven aspects of play; this has given me a new perspective on play and how vital it is in the classroom setting. This study unit has also showed me the significance of incorporating play into the music education setting; it is a more enjoyable and exciting method to learn and teach music, and the children acquire more knowledge by performing activities that they enjoy.

What possibly made some learners uncomfortable during these activities?

I would incorporate indigenous African music into my classroom since my pupils' demographics are more suitable with this sort of music owing to their cultural origins. This guarantees that each person can relate to the subject being taught, and it allows students to learn about other cultures and backgrounds. If you're anything like me, you'd be humiliated since you don't have rhythm and can't dance, and being put in that scenario would make you retreat even more.

The learners felt uneasy in the scenario because they didn't comprehend what was being sung, and they couldn't engage fully since they didn't grasp the words of the songs. Perhaps the music was new, or perhaps the students felt timid and uncomfortable because they were expected to dance in front of others. Others felt ashamed and bashful as a result of a personal religious or moral quandary. Not everyone is as self-assured as everyone else.

Why were some learners uncomfortable?

Because they didn't comprehend the tune or because they didn't know how to dance to this sort of music. Learners either not comprehend the song being played, or they did not know how to dance to this sort of music. Learners were hesitant to dance in front of others.

Can you think of ways to address these issues in the future? What will you change?

The first step is to ask the youngster why they are uncomfortable. It would assist me in determining the root source of the problem. If the child was simply timid, I would group them with children that are similar in order for them to feel at ease and not overwhelmed.

I would select music that incorporates all of the students in my class. Every week, I'd have a theme where we'd learn about a different language or genre.

I would never push a youngster to do anything they do not want to do. If it is a formal evaluation, I will make arrangements for the kid to do it in private.

How can we accommodate diverse learner profiles in our classrooms? What must we beware of?

It is extremely difficult to accommodate each and every learner's needs in terms of cultural, diverse, and religious backgrounds without offending or stepping on toes, but as a good teacher, I will incorporate all cultures and genres in my classroom and have weekly themes where the children can participate in group discussions, games, and activities based on the culture of the week. They will learn about each other through their interactions. In the classroom, one should always be as honest and open as possible, and one should educate and inspire respect and acceptance. Learners should feel comfortable and be able to communicate if they are unsure or unsafe. 

Learners should be taught about many cultures and beliefs, and adults should ensure that they respect and understand one another. The most important thing a teacher must avoid is making assumptions; do not just assume that the content will be fine and relatable based on your own understanding and knowledge; always ask the learners and include them in the selection of content, song, or activity- this will prevent situations like the one in the scenario.

Good day future Educators! Hope all is well and goodJ… Talk about a hectic week! On the bright side… Guess who finally got het learners..? This Gurlll ;-).. Can’t wait to start driving!

I feel like this week I let myself and my studies down. I am sooooo behind with my work. On Tuesday I had to make an appointment for my learners. Wednesday I had an oral hygienist, doctor and optometrist appointment. And if you think that’s bad! My right eye sees blur (I have astigmatism: Talk about strong geneticsL)   and my left eye they detected early stages of astigmatism. No matter how down I feel, I always remind myself to be grateful for all the other countless blessing God has bestowed upon me…. J

What I learnt in SU2 !

We may meet these specific requirements of our students through music by encouraging them to use all of their senses when listening to music (hear the sound, feel the instrument or vibration, move to the music, smell the wood scent of instruments, see the instruments, look at the images), using different types of movements, singing in different languages, playing different games, including various patterns during rhythmic and body percussion activities to allow all learners to succeed (a group could only play on the beat while others play rhythmic patterns such as Taa Ti-Ti-Ti-Ti-Taa...etc.)

Although the focus of this module is not on inclusive education and special needs in general, it is important to remember that even if you one day teach in a mainstream school, your students will still have diverse needs, and some may have unique needs in terms of learning strategies, movement abilities, traumatic or adverse childhood experiences, poverty, attention deficit challenges, dyslexia, and so on.

1. As a Foundation Phase teacher, you have to choose between utilising indigenous African music, Western Art music or contemporary commercial music (including popular music and film music) in your classes. Which would you choose? Please motivate your answer.

Indigenous African Music:  Indigenous music is critical to the transmission and survival of Indigenous traditions. Music is made either individually or collaboratively. The nature of collaborative work presents a number of concerns for Indigenous performers about the usage of cultural property and the acceptable creation of their work.

African music may be used to teach any musical idea, such as rhythms, instruments, tone, timbre, and structure. It is a fantastic approach to teach polyrhythms, and it may “broaden pupils knowledge of rhythms and cultural music differences,” according to other remarks.

2. Do you think that the examples and content offered in SU 2 are inclusive? Please motivate your answer.

Yes, study unit 2 provides a larger element of musical components that is appropriate for foundation phase learning. As a result, activities should be designed to meet the various needs and interests of students.

This study unit taught me a lot. It had a great deal of information that was really useful..

3. What suggestions do you have for making the content more inclusive? Please provide examples of how the content and activities presented in SU 2 could be changed or adapted to be more inclusive.

I don't believe any of the information or activities given in Study Unit 2 should be changed. The information was simple to grasp and well-presented, and the films were both informative and entertaining. The information was well-written and comprehensive.

Hey guys!

Ugh! This week has been so hectic. I have been recovering from Covid and have been trying to get my strength back. Post Covid symptoms are the worst. I have been week and I get exhausted so quick. Keep safe, warm and remember me in your prayers! This week, I chose to focus on a few subjects at a time in order to make up on work that I had missed. This week, I learned the theories of Vygotsky, Piaget, and Erikson and spent a long time trying to comprehend how each theory works and what each theorist was attempting to achieve. It's been fascinating to observe how each theorist has their unique views and what thoughts prompted them to embark on this road of research.

1. Explain your understanding of Vygotsky’s zone of proximal development.

The zone of proximal development (ZPD), also known as the zone of potential development, refers to the range of talents that an individual can accomplish under the supervision of an expert but cannot yet perform on their own.

This learning theory, developed by psychologist Lev Vygotsky, may be witnessed in a classroom environment or anywhere else where an individual has the chance to gain new abilities.

According to what I understand, Vygotsky's thesis presupposes that all societies are the same, however they are not. He believes that interpersonal social interactions (cultural values, problem-solving, beliefs, and communication) are critical for learning growth. Vygotsky created a theory that helps learners to establish connections based on their social interaction by emphasizing scaffolding. The zone of proximal development is a set of abilities that someone acquires while being guided by some

2. Summarise the most important aspects of the learning theories of Erikson, Piaget, and Vygotsky for your teaching practice as Foundation Phase teacher.

3. Would you please describe your confidence in your current knowledge and skills to teach music through movement in the Foundation Phase as you start your LSKM 221 journey?

One of the most enjoyable things we may engage in is listening to music. Music may make us feel emotions, recall past experiences, think, dream, have fun, do catharsis, create, and connect with others. Among the many advantages of listening to music.  I love listening to music and dancing, it allows me to forget my worries and living in the moment.

Music stimulates many aspects of a child's growth and abilities for school readiness, including cognitive, social-emotional, motor, linguistic, and general literacy. It promotes the coordination of the body and mind. Introducing children to music at a young age helps them learn the sounds and meanings of language. Dancing to music helps youngsters develop motor skills while also allowing them to express themselves. Music improves memory skills in both youngsters and adults.

https://www.brighthorizons.com/family-resources/music-and-children-rhythm-meets-child-development#:~:text=Music%20ignites%20all%20areas%20of,sounds%20and%20meanings%20of%20words.

4. If you have to choose between incorporating Music education OR Physical education in the Foundation Phase curriculum to meet the holistic development needs of learners, which would you choose?

I would choose physical education: Some individuals believe that music is more essential than academics since it develops children memory and hand-eye coordination. Although this is true, P.E. teaches children the same thing but via physical activity. P.E. teaches children to catch, throw, and do a variety of other skills that they will need throughout their lives. The main advantage of learning these activities in P.E. is that you stay in shape while doing it.

The Foundation Phase emphasizes the development of the learner's gross and fine motor abilities, as well as perceptual development. Physical and motor development is essential components of a learner's overall development. It has a tremendous impact on the social, psychological, and emotional development of students.

Physical Education (PE) builds students' skill and confidence to participate in a variety of physical activities that become an important part of their life both inside and outside of school. A high-quality physical education curriculum enables all children to enjoy and achieve in a wide range of physical activities.

https://www.nordangliaeducation.com/our-schools/abu-dhabi/learning/sport-and-physical-education/physical-education/the-importance-of-physical-education

https://www.education.gov.za/Programmes/PhysicalEducation.aspx#:~:text=The%20development%20of%20the%20learner's,social%2C%20personal%20and%20emotional%20development.

INTRODUCTION:

• • Who are you? Where are you from?

Hi! My name is Fatima Nana, I am 20 years old. I am out going, adventures and I love nature. My hobby includes fishing, horse riding swimming, quad-bike riding and any type of sport. I live on a farm in Stoffberg, Mpumalanga. I love living on a farm. My dad’s sister and cousins live with us on the farm. We have a hardware shop.

• • Why do you want to be a foundation phase teacher?

Becoming a teacher allows you to impart life lessons that they will never forget, as well as impact their decisions, actions, strengths, weaknesses, and creativity. Becoming a teacher allows you to help shape the future generation.

One of the few jobs that every youngster has the opportunity to watch over and over again is that of a teacher. Growing up, I had some incredible instructors that influenced me in the same manner they influenced me. I've always considered various learning styles and modalities of communication.  In my brain, I would review speakers or professors and consider how they could better interact with their audience. It was enjoyable for me! I looked up to instructors and communicators who were innovative and inventive in their teaching methods. They were able to capture and encourage me to change. I knew that if I became a teacher, I would be able to accomplish the same thing.

My passion for studying and teaching drives me to improve as a teacher and to instil the ideal of lifelong learning in others.

\When did you decide to become a teacher?

During my matric year:

During my matric year we had many career expos. All the kept pointing towards teaching. As a child, I wanted to be a teacher but talked myself out of it, believing that I should pursue something more conventionally scholarly, particularly in the medical area. However, as I was trying to narrow it down, I was thinking about occupations I could truly see myself doing, and I kept coming back to the same two high school instructors who had inspired me so much. I spoke to my Life Orientation also our school psychologist who gave me advice and informed me of the quotation really remained with me: "be who you needed when you were their age".

• • What are you passionate about?

In my personal life, I am enthusiastic about self-development and self-improvement. I'm always searching for new ways to push myself and learn new things. That is one of the reasons I like working as a teacher; I have gained fantastic communication skills, listening skills, and problem-solving skills that assist me not only in my day-to-day work but also in my personal life in terms of confidence, communication, and problem-solving.

Hiking and being outside are two of my favourite pastimes. That's how I generally spend my weekends and free time when I'm not in university. I feel like I have more energy when I return to finish my assignments and see whether I spent any time outside over the weekend.

• • How do you feel about LSKM 221 now, at the start of the semester?

Musical instruction aids in the development of language and thinking: Students who get early musical training will develop regions of the brain associated with language and reasoning. Music helps the left side of the brain grow, and songs can assist imprint knowledge on young minds.

"Music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife"-Kahlil Gibran

Music helps with our emotions, intellectual and physical life. It has an influence on how we work, rest, behave, and feel. It makes us feel emotions and music is a great way to bring people together and bond.

• • What are your expectations for this module?

I hope to learn a lot of new information and make friends.

The blogging idea is a great idea as it’s a way to talk about what we going through and get it all out. It helps us talk about our experiences and reflect on our opportunities which will helps us understand feelings better and provide with a sense of release. It’s a way of venting and digesting.