Spring Forward Cross-Curricular Activities

Submitted by Joni Kotche, Bloomingdale, Illinois

Idea posted April 2, 2004

Just wanted to share a silly little thing I have been doing with the song "Spring Forward" (Music K-8, Vol. 14, No. 4) with my classes.

First, I give an explanation of Daylight Savings Time emphasizing Benjamin Franklin (they know him) and how it helped the farmers back in the 1700s. We talk a little about farming in the 1700s and now (use of machines now, horse-drawn plows, etc.). I remind them that as it gets closer to summer, the sunlight stays with us longer (usually they talk about playing ball until 9pm in the summer, etc.). Then we listen while following the words on the song sheet.

Next, I ask which words are sung several times (spring forward, late). They usually say "boing, boing" during the "springing" sounds. We sing.

Then, I instruct them to stand up and face a particular way. They are instructed to take a small hop FORWARD on the words "spring forward" and a small hop BACKWARD on the word "late." I emphasis taking small hops because someone is usually in front or in back of them, or both).

I play the song. During the "The first Sunday in April" portion, they are instructed to slowly turn the other way and be ready (180 degrees). They continue hopping and before the final "spring forward," I quickly have them turn the other way. The children who have followed directions end up in the exact spot they started, and they are amazed!

I have used this activity with grades 1-5, and all have enjoyed doing it in varying degrees.