Materials
Books and photos of whales100' (30 m) measuring tape
Large butcher paper
Pencil
Scissors
Markers, paint, or crayons
Hole punch and paper hole reinforcer
Fishing line or yarn and large paper clips
Instructions
1. This is a good activity to use when there is not enough time to start an extended activity, but you still need to fill a few minutes or when the group transitions from one activity to another (such as from group time to lunch).2. Ask the children to sit in a large circle. They need to be able to tap their knees, so they can fold their legs or stretch them out.3. Begin a tap-and-clap rhythm. Tap your knees, then clap your hands. Repeat.4. As you are tapping and clapping, begin to chant. Chant one line at a time, and the children repeat it after you.5. Chant:Shocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka SheeShocka Laka ShookaShocka Laka WeeShocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka ShatShocka Laka ShookaShocka Laka Wat6. Now, change the rhythm to meet a transitional need, such as:Shocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka SheeShocka Laka ShookaShocka Laka WeeShocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka "Shaitlyn"Shocka Laka ShookaGo wash your hands, "Caitlyn"7. Continue rhyming the last word in the sixth line with the child's name in the eighth line along with a command until you have called everyone.More to doYou can also use the rhythm as a unique and fun way to communicate needed information to the children, such as:Shocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka SheeShocka Laka ShookaShocka Laka WeeShocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka ShistenHey there, childrenI need you to listen.Shocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka ShupWhen you play in centersYou need to clean up.Shocka Laka ShakaShocka Laka WeanSo, whoever was in blocksPlease go back and clean.
