How To Create A Rain Stick
Submitted by: Mandi McDonald
Endorsed by:Don Descy
Mankato State University
Date: November 7,1997
Description: The students will be able to construct their own rain
stick.
Grade Level: 2-6
Goal: The students will be able to appreciate the sounds of the
rain forest and the rain stick.
Objectives:
1. The students will be able to see the connection between the sounds of the rain
forest and the rain stick.
2. The students will be able to use the resources they have to make their own
rain stick and the sound of rain.
Background Information:
Rain sticks in the rain forest are made from dried caches plants and small pebbles or
seeds, making a soothing rain sound. Today, they are widely used as a percussion
instrument and represent a "back to nature" feeling.
Concepts Covered:
1. The sound of the rain forest.
2. The symbolic nature and these of the rain stick.
Materials Needed:
1 cardboard tube
30 stickpins
cellophane tape
1 cup of rice
decorative paper
Procedure:
1. Stick all 30 pins through the cardboard tube, in 5 rows with 6 pins in each
row.
2. Put a strip of tape around each row to hold pins in place.
3. Tape one end of the tube shut.
4. Pour in the cup of rice.
5. Tape the other end of the tube shut.
6. Cover the tube with wrapping paper, gluing or taping it shut at the edge.
(Plain paper can be used also for the students to decorate it as they want.)
7. Enjoy!! Turn stick over slowly and listen to the rain!
Assessment:
1. Have students explain the significance of the rain stick.
2. Have the students teach to a younger grade about the rain stick and the rain
forest.
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