Memory Verse Songs: Suggested Instructions
The USGA RE Teacher's Manual specifies that the RE class hymnal worship time is 10-15 minutes. It is very beneficial for RE students to spend time singing the words of God and praising God. Use this time to help them to remember the memory verse of the lesson and to build a heart of worship.
Before Class:
Be familiar with the song.
Think about adding hand motions for the keywords.
During Class:
Teach the lyrics (memory verse) first.
Demonstrate the song one or two times. The first time can be just singing, and the second time with hand motions.
Teach the song phrase by phrase. Most songs are written in two-part form (question-and-answer phrases) with similar melody. Teacher can teach the phrases in the question part first (usually the first four measures), repeat the entire question part only, and then move on to the answer part and do the same.
Teacher and students sing the entire song once or twice together.
Teacher can add hand motions to help the students memorize the keywords. Hand props may also be used for older students as long as reverent attitude can be maintained.