Thinking sheet · Imagine and invent

Invent a Musical Instrument

Invent an instrument from things around the house. How do you play it, and what does it sound like?

Grades
K–5
Time
about 30 minutes
Kids practice
sound and vibration, inventing, describing sounds

What kids do

“Boing! Plink! Invent an instrument and show how to play it.”

  1. My instrument (label the parts)
  2. Made from…
  3. How to play it:
  4. It sounds like:

How to run it

  • Rubber bands, boxes, jars, beans and tubes work well.
  • Talk about shaking, plucking, tapping and blowing.
  • Build and hold a class concert.

Talk about it

  • How does your instrument make sound?
  • Can it play high and low?
  • What song would you play?

Take it further

Build it and record a short song.

Pairs well with

Free for home and classroom use. Print as many copies as you need.

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