This week in music we continued to work on our final projects. Having optional submission dates is very helpful because it kept me on track for the upcoming final submission date. On Wednesday we took a trip outside and learned a new song that correlated withthe passing of the egg shakers. This was a good way for children to really get involved in the song.
Overall, I have learned a lot of great ways to incorporate learning about Sweden into creative, fun lesson plans.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sunday, April 12, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 13
This week in music we got to watch other group’s multicultural presentations and also present our own. Our group presented our lesson plan on the grouchy ladybug.
It was really interesting watching everyone’s presentation. I got to see some new great ideas and read some awesome books!
It is very important to incorporate music into student’s curriculum because it allows them to be creative and interact in the lesson. When making this group project and it was great to see how all the pieces came together. We were able to incorporate the importance of friendship, how to tell time, the names of different animals, and the use of musical instruments. Once music is incorporated into a lesson, the options of teaching students new skills are endless!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 12
For our group project we were assigned social skills. We found the book “The Grouchy Ladybug” by Eric Carle. This book is about a Grouchy Ladybug and how he goes through the day trying to pick fights with other insects/animals but always decides that they aren’t big enough to fight. He keeps flying on and then finally ends up back on the same leaf with the Friendly Ladybug and he shares dinner with him. This book incorporates the importance of social skills along with reading time, counting, and more.
To accomplish creating a lesson plan, we met as a group and went through each section of the lesson plan and collaborated. Next, we assigned each group member a task: Ellen- Typing up story and picking animals and bolding them I the story. Michelle- Typing up the lesson plan that the group made. Tiffany- Picking an existing song and creating lyrics that go with the book. Peter- Creating a big clock that students can change the time on.
The most exciting part of the process was seeing the finished project and how everything came together!
Children can benefit from this story/activity/lesson plan because they can learn the importance of being nice and a good friend even if someone is having a bad day, they can learn to read time, counting, and more! Also they can learn to incorporate instruments into the story and associate them with characters. (If the students are more advanced they can learn the value of different notes and how to play the right beats etc.)
Sunday, March 29, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 11
One of the books we read this week was about Thunder Cake. This book was a story about a girl who was frightened about thunder at first, but then was able to overcome her fear! On Friday, we brought in garbage and made sounds effects to the quickly approaching thunder. This correlated with each different thunder boom that was written out in the book. This allows children to be creative their sounds effects and actively participate in the story!
We also added music to the story about Chicken Little. We assigned different musical instruments to each character in the story, Chicken Little, Henny Penny, Cocky Locky, The King, Ducky Lucky, Goosey Loosey, Turkey Lurkey, and Foxy Loxy. We also assigned sounds and instruments to the acorn falling and the sky falling! We also sang the song, “It Hit Me On the Head,” by Linda High and assigned instruments for a bunch of people to play that created the melody. Throughout the song students were responsible for their particular character. This kept them focused, on task, and excited for their character to show up in the story. Also, by having students participate in playing and making up the song, this also keeps them on task and focused. This also helps them remember the story and what it was about because they are actively participating and have a song to remember! They are learning to sing, play instruments, and give sounds to certain characters or objects!
We also learned about binary form which is two contrasting sections, A and B, or chorus and verse. A lot of the pop music today is in binary form, chorus then a verse etc. Some examples of singers that have their music in binary form are Britney Spears, Carrie Underwood, and Rascal Flatts.
On Wednesday, our two songs and a rhyme were due for out multicultural project. My country is Sweden and I found three sounds that were in Swedish and English too!
On Friday our annotated bibliography for our children’s book group project was due. At the end of class, we also got to meet with our groups for the group project. We also learned a new note on the recorder, F and C. We are now able to practice all the songs in our “Do it! Play Recorder” book.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 10
It is very important to incorporate music in the classroom to help students spark their creativity. When telling stories, it is very important for teacher’s to incorporate music. Instead of just telling a story by reading it aloud, you can have students participate and come up with noises/music to go along.
The Listening Walk got the entire class involved. Students were able to come up with their own sounds –ducks, car accelerating- etc. and there was no wrong answer! When the story was read, certain words were left out and then students filled in. This encourages students to use their imaginations and be creative. It also helps students stay focused and helps them actively participate in class. They then also associate the story with the sounds and are able to then remember it better!
We also learned how to use an existing song- What Do We Do with the Drunken Sailors- and change the lyrics so that they are appropriate for the class and lesson. The words were changed to, What do we do with the Boo Hoo Baby. When reading the story, the students got to fill in and add the song in with the story.
On Wednesday, we went over the rubric for our group project and at the end of class, we to the music library and we shown the books for out Multicultural project.
On Friday, we learned a new warm-up activity that included learning the hand jive and free dancing. During the free dancing, a student judge walked around to look for the people who were the most creative and funny! After the song was over, the two pairs that were chosen went in the middle of the circle and did the hand jive and danced for the class! This is a great way for students to get warmed-up and excited for learning. This encourages students to be creative and have fun while doing this. It is important for students to learn how to be creative because it stretches their brain and when they are creative, the remember concepts and ideas longer.
Also on Friday, we learned a new note on the recorder- E. Now we know B, A, G, F#, D, C, & E. We practice playing the new notes in the book “Do It! Play Recorder.”
The Listening Walk got the entire class involved. Students were able to come up with their own sounds –ducks, car accelerating- etc. and there was no wrong answer! When the story was read, certain words were left out and then students filled in. This encourages students to use their imaginations and be creative. It also helps students stay focused and helps them actively participate in class. They then also associate the story with the sounds and are able to then remember it better!
We also learned how to use an existing song- What Do We Do with the Drunken Sailors- and change the lyrics so that they are appropriate for the class and lesson. The words were changed to, What do we do with the Boo Hoo Baby. When reading the story, the students got to fill in and add the song in with the story.
On Wednesday, we went over the rubric for our group project and at the end of class, we to the music library and we shown the books for out Multicultural project.
On Friday, we learned a new warm-up activity that included learning the hand jive and free dancing. During the free dancing, a student judge walked around to look for the people who were the most creative and funny! After the song was over, the two pairs that were chosen went in the middle of the circle and did the hand jive and danced for the class! This is a great way for students to get warmed-up and excited for learning. This encourages students to be creative and have fun while doing this. It is important for students to learn how to be creative because it stretches their brain and when they are creative, the remember concepts and ideas longer.
Also on Friday, we learned a new note on the recorder- E. Now we know B, A, G, F#, D, C, & E. We practice playing the new notes in the book “Do It! Play Recorder.”
Sunday, March 8, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 8
This week in music, we read a story and learned how music can be directly connected with it. We also split up into groups and created a song that included musical sound effects, singing, whispering, shouting, and making a noise with your body (clapping etc). We also learned a new note on the recorder, f, and practiced the fingering so that we would get used to playing this note. We also talked a little bit about the talent show and assigned people to help run it!
It is very important to encourage children to be creative in your classroom. It is also important, as a teacher, to let children have opportunities to be creative. As a teacher, it is important to present new information for children to work with. To help children spark their creative side, as a teacher you must present information that students can hear, touch, taste, and smell. Just don't have students sitting in their desks and completing worksheets! Create lesson plans that allow students to come up with their own solutions to problems. Also challenge students with lessons/assignments that will really make them think outside of the box. Once you allow your students to be creative, they will have much more interest in the lesson that you are teaching. Instead of presenting the information in a boring way, actively engage your students by allowing them to stretch their brains. Children love to think of new ideas and also love to solve problems. They would much rather be active and engaged then sitting at their desks listening to a teacher lecture. They will also remember the lesson that they participated in and remember the information better!
When music is played in the classroom, students have many different ideas on how to interpret the song. Some may want to move to the music through dance, others may want to sing, and still some can come up with elaborate stories about the song. When music is incorporated in the curriculum students vividly remember certain parts of the song. Music can help students in many subjects such as math, reading, science, and more! Once music is introduced student’s minds are turned on. Instead of the daily routine of listening to the teacher and participating in class, music can help students stay focused and on task. Students have very active brains, and are always making up stories in their minds. By stimulating their brains with music and incorporating curriculum in the music, students can really benefit and remember the lesson more efficiently!
For my multicultural project, I am going to have my students learn about Sweden. I am going to teach them about the history, show them where Sweden is located on a map (in relation to the United States), learn about its traditions, and interesting facts about the country. I will also incorporate a Swedish recipe in my lesson so that students can taste and learn about food from another country!
Overall, I learned great ways to incorporate music into the curriculum. I believe that music can be an effective tool in helping children excel in school!
It is very important to encourage children to be creative in your classroom. It is also important, as a teacher, to let children have opportunities to be creative. As a teacher, it is important to present new information for children to work with. To help children spark their creative side, as a teacher you must present information that students can hear, touch, taste, and smell. Just don't have students sitting in their desks and completing worksheets! Create lesson plans that allow students to come up with their own solutions to problems. Also challenge students with lessons/assignments that will really make them think outside of the box. Once you allow your students to be creative, they will have much more interest in the lesson that you are teaching. Instead of presenting the information in a boring way, actively engage your students by allowing them to stretch their brains. Children love to think of new ideas and also love to solve problems. They would much rather be active and engaged then sitting at their desks listening to a teacher lecture. They will also remember the lesson that they participated in and remember the information better!
When music is played in the classroom, students have many different ideas on how to interpret the song. Some may want to move to the music through dance, others may want to sing, and still some can come up with elaborate stories about the song. When music is incorporated in the curriculum students vividly remember certain parts of the song. Music can help students in many subjects such as math, reading, science, and more! Once music is introduced student’s minds are turned on. Instead of the daily routine of listening to the teacher and participating in class, music can help students stay focused and on task. Students have very active brains, and are always making up stories in their minds. By stimulating their brains with music and incorporating curriculum in the music, students can really benefit and remember the lesson more efficiently!
For my multicultural project, I am going to have my students learn about Sweden. I am going to teach them about the history, show them where Sweden is located on a map (in relation to the United States), learn about its traditions, and interesting facts about the country. I will also incorporate a Swedish recipe in my lesson so that students can taste and learn about food from another country!
Overall, I learned great ways to incorporate music into the curriculum. I believe that music can be an effective tool in helping children excel in school!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 7
This week in music we went over presentations and songs and reviewed for the test. To review for my test, I printed out the study guide and answered all of the questions using the text book and the readings online. Once all of the questions were answered, I continued to look over the completed study guide and readings. The most difficult part in studying for this test was memorizing the solfege hand gestures. I was very confident with note names, values, and other music terms.
This semester we have covered a lot of material.
The first week, we wrote a journal that described our musical experiences and abilities. We then learned how to create a rhyme using four beats per measure:
My-Name-Is-Ellen
I-Love-To-Snowboard
Flying-Down-The-Mountain
It-Is-So-Exciting
We presented this rhyme to the class while one of our classmates kept the steady beat. Next, we presented this rhyme again to the class and we tapped the rhythmic pattern of the rhyme.
The second week we learned about steady beats and rhythm. We also learned how to use the hand drum and rhythmic sticks to tap to our beats. Also, we learned how to play the recorder and learned the notes B, A, and G.
The third week we learned how to draw pictures that corresponded with music. We learned how to place the pictures on the staff in higher and lower positions to indicate that the music goes up and down in pitch. We also learned to make the pictures larger and smaller indicating that the notes have different values. This week we also learned about melodies in music and learned more about the recorder. We also learned musical symbols, note names, and note values.
The fourth week, we learned how to write a lesson plan and also learned songs that could also include dancing! We also learned new songs and notes on the recorder (B, A, G, and C).
The fifth week, we wrote our first lesson plan, and learned a new note, D, on the recorder. We also learned new musical concepts.
The sixth week, everyone presented their lesson plans to the class. We all had a turn to teach and participate in the lessons. It was awesome to see everyone’s creative ideas and teaching styles!
Last week, the seventh week, we briefly went over songs that were taught in people’s lesson presentations and also reviewed for the test! On Friday, we took the test.
Looking back on how much we have accomplished so far and being able to go back to previous journals and reflect is very beneficial. It helps me remember everything that I have done and learned. I am looking forward to all the new concepts that I will be learning next semester!
This semester we have covered a lot of material.
The first week, we wrote a journal that described our musical experiences and abilities. We then learned how to create a rhyme using four beats per measure:
My-Name-Is-Ellen
I-Love-To-Snowboard
Flying-Down-The-Mountain
It-Is-So-Exciting
We presented this rhyme to the class while one of our classmates kept the steady beat. Next, we presented this rhyme again to the class and we tapped the rhythmic pattern of the rhyme.
The second week we learned about steady beats and rhythm. We also learned how to use the hand drum and rhythmic sticks to tap to our beats. Also, we learned how to play the recorder and learned the notes B, A, and G.
The third week we learned how to draw pictures that corresponded with music. We learned how to place the pictures on the staff in higher and lower positions to indicate that the music goes up and down in pitch. We also learned to make the pictures larger and smaller indicating that the notes have different values. This week we also learned about melodies in music and learned more about the recorder. We also learned musical symbols, note names, and note values.
The fourth week, we learned how to write a lesson plan and also learned songs that could also include dancing! We also learned new songs and notes on the recorder (B, A, G, and C).
The fifth week, we wrote our first lesson plan, and learned a new note, D, on the recorder. We also learned new musical concepts.
The sixth week, everyone presented their lesson plans to the class. We all had a turn to teach and participate in the lessons. It was awesome to see everyone’s creative ideas and teaching styles!
Last week, the seventh week, we briefly went over songs that were taught in people’s lesson presentations and also reviewed for the test! On Friday, we took the test.
Looking back on how much we have accomplished so far and being able to go back to previous journals and reflect is very beneficial. It helps me remember everything that I have done and learned. I am looking forward to all the new concepts that I will be learning next semester!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 6
This week in music we participated in everyone’s teachings. We learned many new songs and dances!
On Monday, I taught my lesson plan to the class. They learned about the history of the Underground Railroad, and also learned the song Follow the Drinking Gourd. I incorporated a short history lesson while teaching my song. Instead of just teaching about the Underground Railroad in a dry way, I learned that I could incorporate history into a song and make it fun!
It was very beneficial to actively participate in everyone’s lessons because we got to see many great ideas. As a teacher, it is important to be enthusiastic so that students want to stay engaged throughout your entire lesson. Also, it is important to interact with students so they stay on task and well behaved.
We saw our colleagues play the recorder, piano, and sing! Students also used rhythmic sticks, hand drums, and tambourines to keep the steady beat. We also learned to try and focus on using our head voice. It is important to use your head voice as a teacher because young students naturally sing in a higher voice.
I also learned an awesome way on how to teach students to sing a round! Nick had students line up in 3 lines. He then had each line walk and sing at different times. As a result, this created a round! This was a great way to teach students because rounds can be tricky!
I was a little nervous about the videotaping, but in the end it was very beneficial. I got to go back through my teaching and critique myself. Also, it is a great idea because we can help critique our colleagues.
Incorporating music into the elementary classroom can be very helpful. Remaining enthusiastic throughout the entire lesson will help students stay engaged. Students feed off of your body language and will react to your emotions. Music can also help students learn about many different subjects such as history, language arts, and math.
SELF EVALUATION
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI9Sq1wU-Ek&eurl=http://musicingdream.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-02-21T10%3A34%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=7
Musicianship (5 pts)
In tune, accurate pitch- I focused on using my head voice when I was singing. I think that I sang in pitch and in tune throughout my song. It is important to use your head voice while teaching because young students can match the higher pitches easier.
Accurate rhythm- While singing my song, I had accurate rhythm.
Appropriate tempo- I played my song at a tempo that was easy for the class to sing. I didn’t sing it too slow because sometimes when a song is played to slowly, it is hard to breathe in the correct places. Also, when songs are too slow, students sometimes lose interest. Since my song was a little longer than other songs, I tried to do it at a good pace so that we could get through it within a reasonable time.
Phrasing- Throughout my song, when I was playing and singing it, I tried to demonstrate good phrasing of each line even though we didn’t discuss phrasing in my lesson.
Expression- Throughout the song, I tried to show expression in my music and my teaching. I tried to be enthusiastic so that the class would follow and express themselves in the same way!
Leadership (10 pts) I think that I showed good leadership throughout my teaching.
Body language- Throughout my lesson, I kept my body lesson really positive.
Facial expression- I also kept my facial expressions very positive (Smiled at students when they answered a question right etc.)
Voice tone and volume- Throughout my lesson, I tried to project my voice so that everyone could hear. Looking back on my presentation, I think that I held a pretty consistent, loud voice.
Eye contact- I tried to make eye contact with everyone in the class. Eye contact is important because it helps you stay connected with your students.
Intensity (energy)- Throughout my lesson, I kept my intensity up and tried to remain enthusiastic about the song!
Preparation (15 pts) When I wrote my lesson plan, I was planning on going on Monday, even though I didn’t know when I was going to go. I had everything printed out ahead of time, and also knew the song so that I could easily teach it to everyone else.
Knowledge of music- Before teaching my song to the class, I took time and played through a bunch of time so that I knew the song like it was the back of my hand. I studied the music and figured out the rhythm, steady beat, notes, etc.
Knowledge of plan- On Sunday night, before my teaching, I went through my lesson plan a couple times so that I knew the order that I wanted to teach the song (i.e. history of the Underground Railroad, then the history of The Drinkin’ Gourd, and then teach the song).
Written plan- In my written lesson plan, I made sure to write it so that if I was sick as a future teacher, the substitute could come right in and teach it the way that I would teach it. I included a lot of detail so it could be easily followed.
Instruments/equipment ready- On Friday, previous to my teaching, I made sure that I would have rhythmic sticks, tambourines/hand drums on the day of my teaching.
Recordings/charts/materials ready- I made sure to have all of my lyrics and maps printed out in time so that I would be ready to go on the day of my teaching!
Delivery of Instruction (20 pts)
Motivation, capturing attention- During my teaching, I made eye contact with my students, talked in a voice that everyone could hear, and actively involved the class so they would remain interested throughout the entire lesson.
Sequencing of steps- While teaching the song Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd, I sequenced the steps so that they would build upon each other and would make it easy for everyone to learn (The history of the Underground Railroad, the history of the Drinkin’ Gourd, learning the refrain and then each line of the song, and then putting the entire song together).
Verbal instructions- I gave clear instructions to grab rhythmic sticks and tambourines/hand drums, and what we were going to do next. I also explained everything that the class was
learning.
Questioning- I made a point of making sure that my students remembered the history of the Underground Railroad, and the history behind the song Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd.
Pace of lesson, flow, transition- While teaching, I made sure that the lesson moved along and that it flowed together. This will help keep students focused and well behaved throughout the lesson that is being taught.
Flexibility (ability to diagnose and adjust)- During my teaching, I wasn’t bothered when people in class were late (opening the door etc). I just kept teaching and remained on task. It is very important as a teacher that you remain flexible. If something happens in the classroom, it is important to just go with the flow and adjust appropriately. Make it work!
Feedback to the learners- While teaching, I made the class and individual students know when they accomplished something throughout the singing of the song (remembering the history, singing well, tapping on beat etc).
Continuity/focus of lesson- Throughout my lesson , I focused on the song Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd and the history behind it and the Underground Railroad. I also focused on keeping a steady beat, learning the words of the song, and learning the melody of the song.
Closure- For closure, I questioned the class to see if they could remember what the Underground Railroad was and the history of Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd. I also had the class return their rhythmic sticks and tambourines/hand drums to the bins.
One of the most difficult parts of giving my presentation was the fact that I was being videotaped. I was very conscious of the camera and had it in the back of my mind the entire time. However, now that I can look back on my presentation and critique it, the videotaping was very beneficial.
I think that I projected my voice really well, had a good sequence that was easy to for the class to learn, sung in pitch, new the correct rhythm and steady beat, and kept an enthusiastic attitude throughout my lesson.
If I were to teach this song again, I would try and step out from behind the piano and interact directly with my students.
On Monday, I taught my lesson plan to the class. They learned about the history of the Underground Railroad, and also learned the song Follow the Drinking Gourd. I incorporated a short history lesson while teaching my song. Instead of just teaching about the Underground Railroad in a dry way, I learned that I could incorporate history into a song and make it fun!
It was very beneficial to actively participate in everyone’s lessons because we got to see many great ideas. As a teacher, it is important to be enthusiastic so that students want to stay engaged throughout your entire lesson. Also, it is important to interact with students so they stay on task and well behaved.
We saw our colleagues play the recorder, piano, and sing! Students also used rhythmic sticks, hand drums, and tambourines to keep the steady beat. We also learned to try and focus on using our head voice. It is important to use your head voice as a teacher because young students naturally sing in a higher voice.
I also learned an awesome way on how to teach students to sing a round! Nick had students line up in 3 lines. He then had each line walk and sing at different times. As a result, this created a round! This was a great way to teach students because rounds can be tricky!
I was a little nervous about the videotaping, but in the end it was very beneficial. I got to go back through my teaching and critique myself. Also, it is a great idea because we can help critique our colleagues.
Incorporating music into the elementary classroom can be very helpful. Remaining enthusiastic throughout the entire lesson will help students stay engaged. Students feed off of your body language and will react to your emotions. Music can also help students learn about many different subjects such as history, language arts, and math.
SELF EVALUATION
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI9Sq1wU-Ek&eurl=http://musicingdream.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-02-21T10%3A34%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=7
Musicianship (5 pts)
In tune, accurate pitch- I focused on using my head voice when I was singing. I think that I sang in pitch and in tune throughout my song. It is important to use your head voice while teaching because young students can match the higher pitches easier.
Accurate rhythm- While singing my song, I had accurate rhythm.
Appropriate tempo- I played my song at a tempo that was easy for the class to sing. I didn’t sing it too slow because sometimes when a song is played to slowly, it is hard to breathe in the correct places. Also, when songs are too slow, students sometimes lose interest. Since my song was a little longer than other songs, I tried to do it at a good pace so that we could get through it within a reasonable time.
Phrasing- Throughout my song, when I was playing and singing it, I tried to demonstrate good phrasing of each line even though we didn’t discuss phrasing in my lesson.
Expression- Throughout the song, I tried to show expression in my music and my teaching. I tried to be enthusiastic so that the class would follow and express themselves in the same way!
Leadership (10 pts) I think that I showed good leadership throughout my teaching.
Body language- Throughout my lesson, I kept my body lesson really positive.
Facial expression- I also kept my facial expressions very positive (Smiled at students when they answered a question right etc.)
Voice tone and volume- Throughout my lesson, I tried to project my voice so that everyone could hear. Looking back on my presentation, I think that I held a pretty consistent, loud voice.
Eye contact- I tried to make eye contact with everyone in the class. Eye contact is important because it helps you stay connected with your students.
Intensity (energy)- Throughout my lesson, I kept my intensity up and tried to remain enthusiastic about the song!
Preparation (15 pts) When I wrote my lesson plan, I was planning on going on Monday, even though I didn’t know when I was going to go. I had everything printed out ahead of time, and also knew the song so that I could easily teach it to everyone else.
Knowledge of music- Before teaching my song to the class, I took time and played through a bunch of time so that I knew the song like it was the back of my hand. I studied the music and figured out the rhythm, steady beat, notes, etc.
Knowledge of plan- On Sunday night, before my teaching, I went through my lesson plan a couple times so that I knew the order that I wanted to teach the song (i.e. history of the Underground Railroad, then the history of The Drinkin’ Gourd, and then teach the song).
Written plan- In my written lesson plan, I made sure to write it so that if I was sick as a future teacher, the substitute could come right in and teach it the way that I would teach it. I included a lot of detail so it could be easily followed.
Instruments/equipment ready- On Friday, previous to my teaching, I made sure that I would have rhythmic sticks, tambourines/hand drums on the day of my teaching.
Recordings/charts/materials ready- I made sure to have all of my lyrics and maps printed out in time so that I would be ready to go on the day of my teaching!
Delivery of Instruction (20 pts)
Motivation, capturing attention- During my teaching, I made eye contact with my students, talked in a voice that everyone could hear, and actively involved the class so they would remain interested throughout the entire lesson.
Sequencing of steps- While teaching the song Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd, I sequenced the steps so that they would build upon each other and would make it easy for everyone to learn (The history of the Underground Railroad, the history of the Drinkin’ Gourd, learning the refrain and then each line of the song, and then putting the entire song together).
Verbal instructions- I gave clear instructions to grab rhythmic sticks and tambourines/hand drums, and what we were going to do next. I also explained everything that the class was
learning.
Questioning- I made a point of making sure that my students remembered the history of the Underground Railroad, and the history behind the song Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd.
Pace of lesson, flow, transition- While teaching, I made sure that the lesson moved along and that it flowed together. This will help keep students focused and well behaved throughout the lesson that is being taught.
Flexibility (ability to diagnose and adjust)- During my teaching, I wasn’t bothered when people in class were late (opening the door etc). I just kept teaching and remained on task. It is very important as a teacher that you remain flexible. If something happens in the classroom, it is important to just go with the flow and adjust appropriately. Make it work!
Feedback to the learners- While teaching, I made the class and individual students know when they accomplished something throughout the singing of the song (remembering the history, singing well, tapping on beat etc).
Continuity/focus of lesson- Throughout my lesson , I focused on the song Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd and the history behind it and the Underground Railroad. I also focused on keeping a steady beat, learning the words of the song, and learning the melody of the song.
Closure- For closure, I questioned the class to see if they could remember what the Underground Railroad was and the history of Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd. I also had the class return their rhythmic sticks and tambourines/hand drums to the bins.
One of the most difficult parts of giving my presentation was the fact that I was being videotaped. I was very conscious of the camera and had it in the back of my mind the entire time. However, now that I can look back on my presentation and critique it, the videotaping was very beneficial.
I think that I projected my voice really well, had a good sequence that was easy to for the class to learn, sung in pitch, new the correct rhythm and steady beat, and kept an enthusiastic attitude throughout my lesson.
If I were to teach this song again, I would try and step out from behind the piano and interact directly with my students.
Friday, February 13, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 5
This week in music we wrote our first lesson plan, learned a new note on the recorder, and also learned new music concepts.
When writing our first lesson plan, I think that it was very helpful to be able to have it critiqued. By having it looked over and "revised," this helped me monitor my time and develop my ideas. Also, being put into groups was a great idea. This allowed everyone to brainstorm and collaborate. The hand out on How to Teach a Song is a very helpful tool. When writing my lesson plan, I can refer back to this packet for hints and ideas.
On Friday, we learned a new note on the recorder, D. We also played many songs in the recorder book that helped reinforce this new note. This was very helpful because we got to apply and practice this note right away! Altogether we now know the notes, B, A, G, C, and D.
Also on Friday, we learned about the C Major and G Major scales. We learned that in order to play the G scale, we must include F#. On Wednesday, we learned about Zoltan Kodaly. We learned a little bit about his background and his philosophy. I liked how in the beginning of class a song from the Sound of Music was playing. This correlated perfectly with Solfegee. Not only did we learn do, re, mi, fa, so, la, ti, do, we learned hand signals that went with! This was really fun to learn because instead of being lectured this new idea, we got to sing the pitches and do the hand movements that went with. We also learned Kodaly’s rhythm duration syllables. A quarter note- ta, eight notes- ti ti, sixteenth notes- ti ri ti ri, half note- ta ah, and a whole note- ta ah ah ah. On Friday, we got to sing this new concept with our recorder music. I loved being able to actively participate in everything that we were learning in class.
I am very excited to teach my lesson plan to the class. I feel that I am well prepared and know what to do because of all the practice that we have had in class. Also, since my lesson plan was critiqued, I have an even better understanding of how to make my lesson plan even better!
I believe that it is important to know how to effectively write a lesson plan and make it relevant to children. Children will really benefit from musical experiences that are incorporated in their learning. Children typically love music, and when it is used in their daily learning, they will be able to remember concepts better and be able to apply them to other aspects in their life.
When writing our first lesson plan, I think that it was very helpful to be able to have it critiqued. By having it looked over and "revised," this helped me monitor my time and develop my ideas. Also, being put into groups was a great idea. This allowed everyone to brainstorm and collaborate. The hand out on How to Teach a Song is a very helpful tool. When writing my lesson plan, I can refer back to this packet for hints and ideas.
On Friday, we learned a new note on the recorder, D. We also played many songs in the recorder book that helped reinforce this new note. This was very helpful because we got to apply and practice this note right away! Altogether we now know the notes, B, A, G, C, and D.
Also on Friday, we learned about the C Major and G Major scales. We learned that in order to play the G scale, we must include F#. On Wednesday, we learned about Zoltan Kodaly. We learned a little bit about his background and his philosophy. I liked how in the beginning of class a song from the Sound of Music was playing. This correlated perfectly with Solfegee. Not only did we learn do, re, mi, fa, so, la, ti, do, we learned hand signals that went with! This was really fun to learn because instead of being lectured this new idea, we got to sing the pitches and do the hand movements that went with. We also learned Kodaly’s rhythm duration syllables. A quarter note- ta, eight notes- ti ti, sixteenth notes- ti ri ti ri, half note- ta ah, and a whole note- ta ah ah ah. On Friday, we got to sing this new concept with our recorder music. I loved being able to actively participate in everything that we were learning in class.
I am very excited to teach my lesson plan to the class. I feel that I am well prepared and know what to do because of all the practice that we have had in class. Also, since my lesson plan was critiqued, I have an even better understanding of how to make my lesson plan even better!
I believe that it is important to know how to effectively write a lesson plan and make it relevant to children. Children will really benefit from musical experiences that are incorporated in their learning. Children typically love music, and when it is used in their daily learning, they will be able to remember concepts better and be able to apply them to other aspects in their life.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 4
This week in music we learned how to write a lesson plan and learned songs that could also include dance. We also furthered our recorder skills by learning new songs and notes.
When writing a lesson plan we were told to include national standards, concepts (music and non-music), skills (music and non-music), objectives, materials, procedure, closure, and assessment.
We learned the song, Tideo and Bow Wow Wow. We learned how to sing on pitch and keep the steady beat in many different, creative ways (Tapping our hands on the floor, our knees, and clapping our hands). We then learned a dance that corresponded with the song.
On Friday, when we played the recorder, we applied our previous knowledge of how to play the notes B, A, G, and played songs in the book. Next, we learned a new note, C, and played a song that included this note.
With each of these skills, we learned by actively interacting. To learn the songs Tideo and Bow Wow Wow, we listened to how the song went and then repeated it. Instead of just listening to how it went, we got to sing along and this helped everyone remember the song!
When learning how to play the new note, C, on the recorder, we were told how to finger it and then got to practice using it right away. This helped everyone practice the new note.
To learn how to write the lesson plan, we actively participated in the discussion.
It is important that we learn how to teach music to young children because it enriches their lives. Being able to use music and apply it to daily life really has positive benefits. It can help with memorization and can just make children happy! Also, it is important to learn how to correctly write a lesson plan. If you are sick as a teacher, the substitute should be able to come right in and teach it the way that you wanted to teach it. Learning how to play the recorder is also very beneficial because as a teacher you can incorporate the recorder in daily lessons. As a teacher, you can also pass down the skills that you have learned on the recorder and teach them to children.
Children can benefit greatly from having a teacher that incorporates music into a daily lesson. From a very young age they can start to consider music as a fun aspect of daily life and learning. Young children can really relate with music, and once music is incorporated, they seem to pick up on concepts better.
When writing a lesson plan we were told to include national standards, concepts (music and non-music), skills (music and non-music), objectives, materials, procedure, closure, and assessment.
We learned the song, Tideo and Bow Wow Wow. We learned how to sing on pitch and keep the steady beat in many different, creative ways (Tapping our hands on the floor, our knees, and clapping our hands). We then learned a dance that corresponded with the song.
On Friday, when we played the recorder, we applied our previous knowledge of how to play the notes B, A, G, and played songs in the book. Next, we learned a new note, C, and played a song that included this note.
With each of these skills, we learned by actively interacting. To learn the songs Tideo and Bow Wow Wow, we listened to how the song went and then repeated it. Instead of just listening to how it went, we got to sing along and this helped everyone remember the song!
When learning how to play the new note, C, on the recorder, we were told how to finger it and then got to practice using it right away. This helped everyone practice the new note.
To learn how to write the lesson plan, we actively participated in the discussion.
It is important that we learn how to teach music to young children because it enriches their lives. Being able to use music and apply it to daily life really has positive benefits. It can help with memorization and can just make children happy! Also, it is important to learn how to correctly write a lesson plan. If you are sick as a teacher, the substitute should be able to come right in and teach it the way that you wanted to teach it. Learning how to play the recorder is also very beneficial because as a teacher you can incorporate the recorder in daily lessons. As a teacher, you can also pass down the skills that you have learned on the recorder and teach them to children.
Children can benefit greatly from having a teacher that incorporates music into a daily lesson. From a very young age they can start to consider music as a fun aspect of daily life and learning. Young children can really relate with music, and once music is incorporated, they seem to pick up on concepts better.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 3
This week in music we learned about melodies in music, how to draw pictures that corresponds with music, continued to learn how to play the recorder, learned not values and names, and learned musical symbols.
Learning how to draw pictures that corresponds with music is a great way to help younger children learn the words and notes to the song. We learned how to place pictures on the staff in higher and lower positions to indicate that the music goes up and down in pitch. Also, by making the pictures smaller and larger this indicates that the notes are different values in length.
We also learned the value of notes and what each note was called. Ex: Whole note, half note, quarter note, eighth note, and sixteenth note. We also learned about the treble clef (G clef).
On Friday, we continued to advance our skills on the recorder by making our own melodies to Think of A Fly by using the notes B, A, and G.
We learned the concept of drawing pictures that correlated with music by actually drawing them out on paper. By doing this, I was able to have a better understanding than if it was just lectured to me.
By having hands-on practice with the recorder helped me be more engaged in class and further advanced my skills.
When learning about the different note names and values, we interacted as an entire class instead of just being taught in a lecture.
By constantly interacting in class, it helps me learn new concepts and ideas quickly.
It is so important for elementary school teachers to learn note values, melodies, and note names because you can integrate music into daily teaching. Also, by learning how to draw pictures with music, this will help younger children visualize what is going on in the song and as a result, they will be able to grasp the material.
Young children will take the musical songs and skills that they are taught at an early age and be able to apply them later in life. Children can make up their own pictures that go with a particular song/lesson that they learn in class, and as a result it will help children visualize the material and will help them learn better. They will also be able to recognize note names and values and be able to sing to a melody. Music is involved in everyone’s daily life. By having children start learning at a young age, this will greatly benefit them in the long run.
Learning how to draw pictures that corresponds with music is a great way to help younger children learn the words and notes to the song. We learned how to place pictures on the staff in higher and lower positions to indicate that the music goes up and down in pitch. Also, by making the pictures smaller and larger this indicates that the notes are different values in length.
We also learned the value of notes and what each note was called. Ex: Whole note, half note, quarter note, eighth note, and sixteenth note. We also learned about the treble clef (G clef).
On Friday, we continued to advance our skills on the recorder by making our own melodies to Think of A Fly by using the notes B, A, and G.
We learned the concept of drawing pictures that correlated with music by actually drawing them out on paper. By doing this, I was able to have a better understanding than if it was just lectured to me.
By having hands-on practice with the recorder helped me be more engaged in class and further advanced my skills.
When learning about the different note names and values, we interacted as an entire class instead of just being taught in a lecture.
By constantly interacting in class, it helps me learn new concepts and ideas quickly.
It is so important for elementary school teachers to learn note values, melodies, and note names because you can integrate music into daily teaching. Also, by learning how to draw pictures with music, this will help younger children visualize what is going on in the song and as a result, they will be able to grasp the material.
Young children will take the musical songs and skills that they are taught at an early age and be able to apply them later in life. Children can make up their own pictures that go with a particular song/lesson that they learn in class, and as a result it will help children visualize the material and will help them learn better. They will also be able to recognize note names and values and be able to sing to a melody. Music is involved in everyone’s daily life. By having children start learning at a young age, this will greatly benefit them in the long run.
Friday, January 23, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 2
This week is Music, we learned about steady beats and rhythm. We learned how to create a rhyme that had four beats. We also learned how to use the hand drum and rhythmic sticks to tap to our beats. Also, we learned the basics on how to play the recorder. Some of the notes included B, A, and G.
In class, we learned by actively participating in class. We were able to sing along and use the hand drum and rhythmic sticks. The information was also presented visually on the blackboard which helped many people figure out the steady beats and the rhythmic beats. Also, when we were learning how to play the recorder, we got to have hands on interaction right away. We immediately got to play and finger the new notes.
I think that it was very important to learn these concepts because they can be incorporated into the elementary classroom. Not only can you use these skills in music, but in reading, math, social studies, and more! Having students learn rhymes, rhythms, and instruments, will help them remember information that they are taught in the classroom.
I think that it is very important for children to learn these skills and concepts at a young age, because they will be able to take these skills and apply them throughout the rest of their lives. By having children become familiar with these concepts at an early age, music and rhythm will come easier to them as they continue to advance their music abilities. They can create rhymes to remember information in various classes and will in turn help them on homework, quizzes, and tests.
Ten children songs that I am familiar with are:
1 Mary Had A Little Lamb
2 Baby Bumble Bee
3 Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
4 Starlight, Starbright
5 Old MacDonald
6 Oh Suzanna!
7 Three Blind Mice
8 Wheels on the Bus
9 Humpty Dumpty
10 Hokey Pokey
In class, we learned by actively participating in class. We were able to sing along and use the hand drum and rhythmic sticks. The information was also presented visually on the blackboard which helped many people figure out the steady beats and the rhythmic beats. Also, when we were learning how to play the recorder, we got to have hands on interaction right away. We immediately got to play and finger the new notes.
I think that it was very important to learn these concepts because they can be incorporated into the elementary classroom. Not only can you use these skills in music, but in reading, math, social studies, and more! Having students learn rhymes, rhythms, and instruments, will help them remember information that they are taught in the classroom.
I think that it is very important for children to learn these skills and concepts at a young age, because they will be able to take these skills and apply them throughout the rest of their lives. By having children become familiar with these concepts at an early age, music and rhythm will come easier to them as they continue to advance their music abilities. They can create rhymes to remember information in various classes and will in turn help them on homework, quizzes, and tests.
Ten children songs that I am familiar with are:
1 Mary Had A Little Lamb
2 Baby Bumble Bee
3 Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
4 Starlight, Starbright
5 Old MacDonald
6 Oh Suzanna!
7 Three Blind Mice
8 Wheels on the Bus
9 Humpty Dumpty
10 Hokey Pokey
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Sunday, January 18, 2009
MUSC 373 Journal 1
Journal 1
My name is Ellen Potnick. I have been involved with music since I can remember. When I was really young, my mom would have to play music for me to fall asleep during nap and at night time.
I started playing the piano when I was six years old and played for 11 years. I also played the clarinet for six years.
During middle school, I participated in band and chorus and also sang in my church choir. In 7th grade, I played a part in a musical at school.
During my freshman year of high school, I participated in symphonic band and also played in the marching band. Throughout my sophomore through senior year of high school, I played the piano for church services. During this time, I also accompanied the children’s choir every Sunday. This was a very awesome and rewarding experience. During my junior and senior year, I taught piano lessons. I absolutely loved doing this. From the time I started teaching to the time that I had to leave for college, I saw a tremendous improvement in my students.
Even though I do not take private lessons for piano, I really miss it. Right now I am too busy to juggle school, my sorority, and playing the piano. However, I still love music. I listen to my ipod as much as I can. I love Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, the Fray, Coldplay, Britney Spears, and pretty much anything! Also, anytime I drive in my car, I have to listen to music. Music plays a very important role in my life.
I think the activities that we do in class are very interesting. I love how everyone participates in class and that we are up and moving around the room. It is such a nice break from the boring lectures! I really like how you sing each morning to get the class warmed up. The activity on Wed, Jan. 14 was an excellent way to learn student’s names. This allows students to have the attention focused on him/her and they are then able to announce their name to the class. It is very important to children that the teacher and their classmates know their name. They are proud to announce their name to the class, and when people know their name, they are very happy! By singing clever rhymes, students are able to remember information easier.
Overall, I am very excited to be in this class and so far it has been an excellent experience.
My name is Ellen Potnick. I have been involved with music since I can remember. When I was really young, my mom would have to play music for me to fall asleep during nap and at night time.
I started playing the piano when I was six years old and played for 11 years. I also played the clarinet for six years.
During middle school, I participated in band and chorus and also sang in my church choir. In 7th grade, I played a part in a musical at school.
During my freshman year of high school, I participated in symphonic band and also played in the marching band. Throughout my sophomore through senior year of high school, I played the piano for church services. During this time, I also accompanied the children’s choir every Sunday. This was a very awesome and rewarding experience. During my junior and senior year, I taught piano lessons. I absolutely loved doing this. From the time I started teaching to the time that I had to leave for college, I saw a tremendous improvement in my students.
Even though I do not take private lessons for piano, I really miss it. Right now I am too busy to juggle school, my sorority, and playing the piano. However, I still love music. I listen to my ipod as much as I can. I love Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, the Fray, Coldplay, Britney Spears, and pretty much anything! Also, anytime I drive in my car, I have to listen to music. Music plays a very important role in my life.
I think the activities that we do in class are very interesting. I love how everyone participates in class and that we are up and moving around the room. It is such a nice break from the boring lectures! I really like how you sing each morning to get the class warmed up. The activity on Wed, Jan. 14 was an excellent way to learn student’s names. This allows students to have the attention focused on him/her and they are then able to announce their name to the class. It is very important to children that the teacher and their classmates know their name. They are proud to announce their name to the class, and when people know their name, they are very happy! By singing clever rhymes, students are able to remember information easier.
Overall, I am very excited to be in this class and so far it has been an excellent experience.
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