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Hip Cat

Language: English | Español

This is the story of a cat that creates a sound all his own and then experiences how the rhyme and rhythm enchant his audience. Jazz, America’s most original music form, is the topic of this show. Viewers experience examples of improvisation in music, literature, art and dance, and meet Joshua Redman, a jazz saxophonist who talks about how music has influenced his life.

Here are activities to do after watching this episode:

Tree-Branch Harp

This is a simple musical instrument even your youngest budding musician can make and play.

You will need:

  • y-shaped tree branch
  • three or more rubber bands

Find a small tree branch that is shaped like the letter Y. Stretch three or more rubber bands across the V of the branch. Now you are ready to play your harp!

 

Clever Cat Games

If you have a pet cat, try these games with your pet. They are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and a challenge for your curious cat.

Cat Game #1
Fill a clean, clear plastic bottle halfway with water. You can add a small toy or a few marbles in there as well. Cap the bottle. Place it on the floor and spin it while your cat watches. Then let your cat have fun with it.

Cat Game #2
Put four nuts with shells, marbles, or beads in a small plastic container with a lid. Show the container to your cat and shake it. Then let your cat play with it. Does your cat push it around to try to figure out what’s inside?

Cat Game #3
Cut the bottoms off three large paper bags. Set the bags on their sides and tape the bags together to form a long tunnel. Use a toy to lure your cat into the tunnel or roll a ball into the tunnel to see if your cat will chase it.

Check out some of these books on your
next trip to the library:

  • Charlie Parker Played Be Bop by Chris Raschka
  • Conga Crocodile by Nicole Rubel
  • Willie Jerome by Alice Faye Duncan

READING RAINBOW has a resource library that includes teacher guide materials as well as reading programs for use in the public libraries. You can download these resources from GPN at:
www.gpnresources.com

If you would like more information about READING RAINBOW or if you would like to learn more about other educational products please visit the GPN web site.

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