Toolbox

It's never too early to start learning about tools – safely, of course. Starting with hand tools is generally where one might begin with kids. And where would you find such hand tools? In a toolbox!

This simple song not only asks what is in a toolbox, but goes on to itemize a few common items. It even gives audio demonstrations of some of the sounds they make. (Hint: These are indicated on the music). While the melody is easy for younger students, the optional background vocals might be best performed by older students. The divisi is also optional, but it's quite natural, so it should be readily doable. (We include rehearsal tracks online to learn the background vocals.)

If you are using this with younger students who find remembering the tool names difficult, just have them repeat the same tools as the first verse. Alter the background vocals to fit as well. For these options you might prefer, we have included a number of additional audio versions on our web site, all free to subscribers. These include: accompaniment version with background vocals (both verses); alternate full version (first verse only); and alternate accompaniment version with background vocals (first verse only). As mentioned, you will also find the isolated background vocals for learning, broken into the high and low parts.

While we name several tools that might be in a toolbox, there are certainly others that could be in there. Ask your students what those might be. Also, discuss different types of the same tool, such as a wrench, which might include a pipe wrench, crescent wrench, or socket wrench, to name just a few. What other tools have different kinds? To explore even more, consider using our Diving Deeper interactive learning assessment extra included with this song.