Repeat: Feasting on the Words

I had the privilege of visiting a ward in our stake yesterday and was really enjoyed the singing time. This particular chorister did a fabulous job of integrating the monthly scripture of "feast on the words of Christ". Here is a recap:

Introduction: Discuss with/remind the children what the word "feast" means. Liken feasting on food to feasting on the scriptures and the benefit each can be to our bodies and spirits, respectively.

The next step can be done in a couple different ways:

• Display a prepared visual with the word "FEAST" at the top and a variety of clip art food below. At the bottom of this you can attach the key phrase of January's scripture. (This chorister used a page from her children's file folder game, but you can easily find clip art online)


• Present a shopping cart or basket full of play food for the children to choose from.


• You could also do this activity with a place setting of silverware, cup, bowl, plate, etc.

Activity:

• Invite different children to come up and pick a piece of food. Write different ways to sing the song on/under each piece. Some ideas: staccato, legato, talking (like a parrot), loud (like an auctioneer), soft (like a spy), stand on the words "hear" or "listen", leave out the words "hear" or "listen", etc. Obviously this is where you can customize the plan to best fit the needs, abilities, and preferences of your primary.

Closing:

• Bear testimony of the importance of feasting on the words of Christ.

This is a great activity to use as a review of verses learned in previous weeks or you can quickly teach a new verse the first 10 minutes (fastest way to do this is usually with sign language/actions) and then play the game the last 10 minutes.

If you are introducing a new verse before playing this game, remember that it is ok to go fairly quickly through each line because the kids will get the chance to hear and sing the words at least 3 or 4 more times during the activity. Sometimes I think this method of teaching can be helpful, especially in a large junior primary, because it keeps the kids' interest and allows them to hear and practice the words numerous times. I know it worked like a charm for the primary I was visiting (both in JP and SP), and they have a good 60-80 kids in each group.

Happy Singing!!!