Students Perform Rhythms Using Standard Notation

Procedure

1) Students perform a 4-beat rhythmic phrase in several ways as rhythm cards are displayed for the class and rearranged. Each card represents one beat and displays either notes or rests.

2) Students are given their own sets of preprinted notation to arrange in an order of their choice and perform in pairs or small groups.

3) As a class, students brainstorm ideas to add lyrics to the rhythm cards. Suggestion: The words should follow a theme (i.e, fruits, Valentine's Day, Spring).

4) Students return to small groups and replicate the activity matching each syllable to a note.

5) Pieces are performed for the class, then notated on the board. Each student may copy samples on their own paper.

*Possible Extension: Students can assign pitches to their rhythm composition given limited choices and/or add instruments to their performance.

Standards Code

Pr4.2.1b
Pr4.2.2b

Suggested Assessment

Teacher uses an observational checklist to note that each student performs their own rhythm piece with:

+ Accurate rhythm with a consistent steady beat
0 Some accurate rhythms and a consistent stead beat
- Little accuracy

Enduring Understanding

Analyzing creators’ context and how they manipulate elements of music provides insight into their intent and informs performance.

Essential Question

How does understanding the structure and context of musical works inform performance?

Additional Instructional Ideas

Incorporate movement activities into the rhythm performances.
Perform rhythm pieces on classroom percussion instruments.