Students learn to work together
Musicians have their own unique style. They take risks and make their own decisions in their artwork. Students are able to learn that they can leave their mark on the world by exploring their creative process. When exploring music, we don’t want are students to mechanically play “twinkle twinkle little star” on the recorder. Hand them an instrument and let them go, don’t just limit music to lessons and drills.
Teaching to multiple intelligences
Can actually improve test scores!
After researching this topic, I found countless articles to back this claim. According to a study published in the Journal for Research in Music Education, students in music programs score higher on standardized tests compared to schools with deficient music education programs. source credit- http://artsedwashington.org/research/high-quality-music-education-raises-test-scores
I also have personal experience with this topic. In high school, I attended Natomas Charter, Performing and Fine Arts Academy. All students attending this school were required to maintain a 3.0. Of my four years attending, I only knew of one student who left due to grades.
It promotes creativity.
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Allow students to explore different instruments… Let them see how they produce different sounds. Practice rhythm and tempo. Practice playing softly, then loudly. And of course, teach them to respect and appreciate their instruments!
Explore music by Genre!
Explore the history of different genres, discuss famous musicians and bands, and the common elements/instruments that are used in each genre. In this resource you can do it all! There are even video/sound clips that you and your students can scan right in the printouts! A fun create-your-own band activity is in there too!
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https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Music-Activities-Unit-Exploration-by-Genre-1726142 |
BOOMWHACKERS! They are the COOLEST! They are hollow, color-coded, plastic percussion tubes. The different lengths of the tube creates the different pitches. Students produce tones by striking together or on any surface. Best part? They are affordable!
Explore Music from other cultures (music around the world)
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https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Around-the-World-Music-Unit-Common-Core-1498598 #1 best seller in StudentSavvy store and featured in the Teachers Pay Teachers Newsletter 2/1/2015!! |
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source credit – Responsive Classroom |
Bucket Beats! Easy DIY Drums!! Just use home depot buckets and flip them upside down! You can create small bongo drums by just using felt, rubber bands, and a tin can (formula cans and oatmeal cans work great!) Students can even paint them or decorate with yarn and beads.
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https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Music-Activities-Common-Core-Writing-1141200 |
Listen and Create! – Self expression and art! This is so fun for students and incredibly easy to do. All you have to do is turn on some music and let students express their emotions through art. Not only does this improve their artistic skill, but it promotes self expression and creativity. It sounds simple and silly, but I promise you it’s not.
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https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Music-Rhythm-Fun-1706261 |
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Source credit – Dave Meumann https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iT6ttO7yxaE
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Thanks for reading! Post ways you include music into your classroom below!
Photo credit – Downloaded and purchased from Dollar Photo Club
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