Didgeridoo Down Under: Awesome Educational Entertainment!

1) We promote literacy and reading by displaying a 2-foot X 3-foot vocabulary list during our programs. Our K-5 list includes Aboriginal, Australia, Didgeridoo, Diversity, Environment, Equator, Eucalyptus, Extinct, Indigenous, Island, Mammal, Marsupial, Oceania, and X-Ray Art. Our 6th-12th list includes Aboriginal, Australia, Didgeridoo, Diversity, Environment, Eucalyptus, Genocide, Indigenous, Marsupial, Monotreme, Oceania, Onomatopoeia, Sacred, and X-Ray Art. During the show, the performer slowly says each word and has the audience repeat them back to him, which reinforces phonics, spelling and word recognition. This program helps students interpret words and phrases as they are used in a text, including determining technical, connotative, and figurative meanings; and analyze how specific word choices shape meaning or tone. (R4)

2) We use maps to reinforce the meaning and application of certain words, such as Australia and Oceania. If a vocabulary word defines a tangible object used during the show (such as didgeridoo, eucalyptus or x-ray art), the performer points to that item while explaining the term. This program teaches students to integrate and evaluate content presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally. (SL2)

3) For our grand finale, participants integrate everything they’ve learned to create a group jam session. This program encourages students to Integrate and evaluate content presented in diverse media and formats, including quantitatively, as well as in words. (R7)

1) We teach how to play the didgeridoo, including droning, vocalizing, tonguing, imitating sounds of nature, and playing basic rhythms. This program teaches students how to apply the elements of music and music techniques in order to sing and play music with accuracy and expression. (2.ML.1)

2) We talk about the didgeridoo and its connection to the Aboriginal people, who have been playing it for at least 1500 years. This program helps students understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music. (6.CR.1)

3) We teach about various styles of Aboriginal artwork, including ancient X-ray art and modern dot art, which is displayed on our didgeridoos and art panels. This program helps students understand the global, historical, societal, and cultural contexts of the visual arts. (7.CX.1)

4) We demonstrate how students can reduce, reuse and recycle by turning a cardboard tube or PVC pipe into a simple didgeridoo. The performer also plays a didgeridoo made from recycled blue jeans. This program encourages students to evaluate human behaviors in terms of how likely they are to ensure the ability to live sustainably on Earth. (EEn.2.8)