Chicken Dance Patterns
by jensilvermath • September 14, 2013 • Math • 0 Comments
Just thought I would pass this along – as an introductory activity for patterns, I had the kids do the chicken dance. The kids had a great time doing it, but the best part was when someone asked ‘what does this have to do with math?’ and I put the question to the group. This led to a good discussion of pattern and sequence in all kinds of things – music, art, nature etc. Deb
1. Pinch your fingers and thumbs together in front of you 4 times.
2. Flap your arms 4 times.
3. Wiggle side to side 4 times. Get your back side as low as you can.
4. Clap 4 times.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 until you hear the swing-like music.
6. Swing around until the swing-like music ends.
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Try it! Here the tune is being performed on a wooden street organ, built and played by John Smith.
After you dance, write a short reflection about how the Chicken Dance relates to mathematics.
