From Rhythm to Melody!

This marking period I am working with 2nd grade on writing rhythm compositions using quarter notes, quarter rests, eighth notes, and half notes.  I am so proud of what my students have come up with and I really like how I scaffolded their learning through these 3 easy steps!

Step 1: I took the first line from the poem "Loose tooth" and had the students figure out the rhythm of the words, then they had a chance to make their own little rhythm poem!  They shared their compositions with a partner before adding art!

Step 2: The next class students looked over their "loose tooth" poem and were able to make any changes.  After they were happy with their composition, they wrote their mini poem on this "Final Composition Sheet". 

Side note:  This robot sure knows how to race!  "Winner!"  

Step 3: Is double checking for learning not quite enough for you?  Well then let's tripple check it!  The following class, students had another opportunity to look over their final compositions, decide if they wanted to change it or keep it the same, and then add a So-Mi melody.  Looks like this student really likes using "mi" for her melody (she will be getting this back to work on filling in the entire space for "mi"). She must also REALLY like robots... that is naturally why I chose this student's work for the blog!

Side note:  It looks like this robot is starting to teach the other robots how to win!