ITAD Collaboration Has CET Students Moving to the Rhythm and Beat
CET students know the drill when they set foot in the gymnasium: grab a bucket, a yoga ball, and drumsticks, and find a spot in the circle. They’re ready to rock and roll.
Drumming for Fitness is a low-impact cardio exercise that combines drumming, rhythm, and music. While it isn’t a new program at CET, there is something so special about it that will never get old. “This was started 9 years ago and has been going strong ever since,” said Suzanne Leslie, physical education teacher. “I did this at my first school, and when I came to CET I worked with Ms. Horton to grow it into an ITAD collaboration between physical education, music, and Spanish classes. There was a sweet spot where the curriculum intersected between specials. It was a perfect fit.”
In the spirit of CET's Innovative Teaching Across Disciplines (ITAD) initiative, collaboration is clearly where the magic happens. And, those who reap the rewards are CET students. Fourth graders and classmates Matilde, Ines, and Marilyn were eager to share their thoughts. “Drumming for Fitness is one of our favorite ITAD units,” said Matilde. “It’s really fun when we can collaborate like this,” added Ines. There are many benefits to Drumming for Fitness that go beyond just having fun, including cardiovascular health, cognitive skills through learning choreography and bi-lateral coordination, and the enhancement of mood using music and movement. “Different types of music can make you feel differently. Pop music can get you excited, and classical music can help calm your body,” said Matilde. “The beats and rhythms make you want to run around and jump,” said Marilyn.
In late November, Ms. Leslie was recognized for her work through an invitation to present Drumming for Fitness at the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (NYSAHPERD) 100th Anniversary Conference. “It was an incredibly special opportunity. I felt honored to be able to share this with other teachers across the state,” she said. Ms. Leslie will next present at the NYSAHPERD Nassau Chapter’s annual conference in March.
For the fourth-graders, the end of the Drumming for Fitness unit feels bittersweet. “This is our last year doing this at CET, but I know we’re going to do a lot of fun stuff at PVC,” said Ines. Marilyn also shared an optimistic view. “I’m going to do this in my house because I have a yoga ball at home.” Matilde reflected on her classmates' comments and had a revelatory idea. “I’m going to miss this because it’s a ton of fun, and I just really like it,” she said. “Perhaps I should take up drumming.”