Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade R

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

• This week's focus on Creative Arts—drawing, painting, and music—is foundational for the holistic development of Grade R learners. In the South African context, art and music are not just activities; they are integral parts of our cultural fabric, storytelling, and community identity. From the vibrant geometric patterns of Ndebele art to the powerful rhythms of kwaito and the harmonious melodies of isicathamiya, our learners are surrounded by rich artistic expression. This lesson aims to harness this everyday exposure, providing a structured outlet for learners to express their own feelings, ideas, and experiences. Engaging in these activities develops crucial pre-literacy skills, such as fine motor control for writing, as well as cognitive skills like problem-solving, planning, and symbolic thinking. It also fosters emotional intelligence and social skills as they learn to share materials and appreciate each other's creations.
• Learning Objectives (CAPS Aligned):
• By the end of this week's lessons, learners should be able to:
• Demonstrate Fine Motor Control: Correctly hold a thick crayon, paintbrush, or other drawing tool using a developing tripod grip to make deliberate marks on paper.
• Identify and Use Primary Colours: Identify and name the three primary colours (red, blue, yellow) and use them purposefully in a drawing or painting.

Lesson summary

This week's focus on Creative Arts—drawing, painting, and music—is foundational for the holistic development of Grade R learners. In the South African context, art and music are not just activities; they are integral parts of our cultural fabric, storytelling, and community identity. From the vibrant geometric patterns of Ndebele art to the powerful rhythms of kwaito and the harmonious melodies of isicathamiya, our learners are surrounded by rich artistic expression. This lesson aims to harness this everyday exposure, providing a structured outlet for learners to express their own feelings, ideas, and experiences.

Lesson notes

This section breaks down the core ideas learners will engage with. These concepts should be introduced through play, demonstration, and hands-on activities.

Concept 1: The 'Magic Grip' for Making Marks (Fine Motor Skills)

What it is: The 'magic grip', often called the tripod grip, is the way we hold a pencil, crayon, or paintbrush with our thumb, index finger, and middle finger. Think of it as a little 'crocodile mouth' or 'birdie beak' that holds the tool.

Why it's important: This grip gives us the most control and is the foundation for learning to write letters and numbers. Using this grip strengthens the small muscles in the fingers and hands, which prevents them from getting tired quickly when they start writing in Grade

1. How to teach it: Demonstration: Show learners how you hold a crayon. Say, "Look how my thumb and my pointer finger make a little mouth to hold the crayon. My tall middle finger helps it rest." Use fun analogies.