The Handcart Song

The Handcart Song, p. 220, is a fun song for the children to learn as we commemorate the pioneer trek. Begin by telling a little about the handcart pioneers.  There are many stories - or you could ask the children to tell what they know about these hard working people.

Sing the first 2 lines of the song.
Ask the children to listen for the rhymes and sing it again.
Print the rhyming words on the board: West, test, long, song
Have the children sing with you and point to the rhyming words when you come to them.
Ask the following questions - tell them that the answers are in the song:

• What were the pioneers doing?  moving to the West
• How did they meet the test?  With courage strong
• How long did they push their handcarts?  all day long
• What did they do while they pushed?  sang

Chorus:

Do the actions to the words of the first line of the chorus.  Have the children sing and do the actions with you.

Sing the last line and then have the children sing it 2 or 3 times

This song can be sung as the children march around the primary room.  Sing it 2 or 3 times so they can all march around the room and quietly march to their seat.