The Last Few Days

The last few days before a school vacation can present some interesting challenges. For example, special events in the school can often result in many students being absent from your class. Keeping the remaining students involved in tasks related to your curriculum can be especially daunting.

Here's an idea for using SmartMusic in your class for just such occasions. It is a great way to review and have fun at the same time - and it doesn't even require instruments.

Rhythm Challenge

Purpose: To demonstrate an understanding of rhythm through perfromance

Recommended Set-up:

• Computer hooked up to LCD projector
• Screen
• Speakers
• SmartMusic microphone attached to a music stand -- students can adjust the stand to a suitable height
• Board to keep score (and score keeper)
• No instruments are needed for this activity

To Get Started: Launch SmartMusic, select Exercises, then indicate Rhythms. Next choose Clap/Snare/Pad as your instrument:

Procedure:

• Divide the class in half. If you like, have students come up with team names
• Two students at a time come to the front of the room
• Order of team play is determined by chance (ie, flip of a coin) or by answering a music knowledge question
• Student 1 faces the screen while student 2 faces away from the screen
• The teacher picks a rhythm from SmartMusic and plays it: Student 1 performs the rhythm by clapping
• After each attempt, the teacher checks the score. All can see the assessment
• The student who has the highest score earns a point for their team
• The team that earns the point has the honor of going first on the next try
• The team with the most points wins
• In case of a tie, each team can choose the person who will battle it out!

 Points to Consider:

• The entire class will be engaged in this activity. Students will be at their seats tapping lightly.
• You need to set parameters for the students. I had a rule that if a student from either team was interfering in any way during a student's attempt, the other team would be awarded a point.
• The students have to clap at the appropriate level for an accurate assessment: Many times, a student would perform the rhythm perfectly but still get black notes and a lower score. Part of the game is to clap with a good sound.

Have fun coming up with your own variations and have a great vacation. You've earned it!