2x2=4 2x3=6 2x4=8

MUSIC MATH MOVEMENT RHYTHM OF LIFE

Definition of Rhythm: patterned recurring alternations of contrasting elements of sound
or speech.

LIFE IS RHYTHM / RHYTHM IS LIFE

WHO? The strategy of using rhythm in Math incorporating music, math and
movement is universal through culture, age, gender, socio-economic and

abilities. The disabilities

that may utilize rhythm and
movement into their daily life are; LD, ED, ELL, ID, TBI, ADHD, OHI, at-risk,
MST, PTSD, visual impairment, Autisism and DEMENTIA but not limited to
those as there will be varying degrees and capabilities of movement, rhythm
and understanding of Math concepts.

WHY? Math and music are related in the brain from early in life. Musical elements
such as steady beat, rhythm, melody, and tempo possess inherent mathematical
principles such as spatial properties, sequencing, counting, patterning, and one-to-one
corresponodence.
Steady beat affects attention behavior which is a common characteristic in
many disabilities and learning behaviors. It is also common in the general
general education setting!
WHEN? The most efficient time or situation where rhythm, repetition and steady or
consistent method would be when the students need to refocus or need to attempt
some problem in Math with a renewed idea or process.
Activity: objective is to get students moving to a rhythm they create naturally while thinking of
a math problem solution. Have two or three students in each corner of the room, one will hold
the math problem and one will make a beat-eithor snap fingers or hum or sing or clap while
moving towards the middle of the room. When all gather in middle of room take turns going
around doing the math problem to a beat. (beat rhythm melody) If necessary modification of
beat sounds or movement can be implemented so every student can participate.

Music composers Bach and Beethoven had severe disabilities that developed
which may have aided in their extraordinary musical gifts or talents.
FACT-People with autism have a higher rate of perfect pitch than the general
population.

RHYTHM-FOUNDATION OF THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACKRIDING

RHYTHM means the beat, regularity of a horses (or humans) footfalls.
Hear and feel four even, steady beats at walk, two at jog or trot, three at canter
TEMPO is measure of time between the beats or the steps of the gaits. It will be
slower when the gaits or steps are extended and faster when they are collected or
shortened.
STRIDE is the distance covered by four feet of the horse or two of human. (or one,
three depending on the ability of the person)
In life in general and in particular in the therapeutic horse riding arena rhythm is the
foundation of action and relaxation. Tension can disrupt rhythm because rhythm is a
predictable and routine presence. Rhythm has the same tempo and measure of time.
It is important when working with people with disabilities and children to keep a
consistent presence, predictability and movements with the activity. Horses provide
the rhythmic movement to aid children and people with disabilities in therapeutic
horseback riding.
A HORSES GAIT MIMICS THE MOVEMENT OF A HUMAN
The natural sense of rhythm is distorted when there is too much noise, when we
go into nature or when we are around a horse there is a quiet calm that develops
and within that rhythm is created naturally.
Adding music to therapeutic horseback riding:
Music calms, animates and controls for balance as well as consistency, trust and
bonding. Music is rhythmic which allows for connection in the breathing and body
of both the human and the horse. The rider and horse will come together with
their bodies, steps, limbs as the music plays and they become one.
HORSES CAN MATCH THEIR TRAVELING MOVEMENT TO THE BEAT OF THE
MUSIC IN THEIR ENVIRONMENT!
Since music can unlock emotions in humans it can be used to accomplish certain
desired behaviors and individual goals. For people with difficulties understanding
the spoken word music can be the key to understanding even on horseback!
REFERENCES:
Abramo, J., (2012). Disability in the Classroom:Current Trends and Impacts on Music
Education. Music Educators Journal, Vol 96, Issue 1
Lagasse, A., Shiloh, C., (2014). Sensory Friendly Concerts: A community music therapy
initiative to promote Neurodiversity. International Journal of Community Music, Vol 7, number 1
Peck, Robert., (2014). Mathematical music pedagogy and new Math. Journal of Mathematics
and Music, Vol 8, Issue 2