Engaging All Students, continued from page 50
shakuhachi, and shamisen). I wanted my students to compare and contrast between Western and Eastern instruments. In order to do so, I developed a research project where my students created a podcast on an instrument. First, they used the internet to research one instrument (I incorporated text-to-speech function for my non-readers). Next, they incorporated Google Images to represent each piece of information they found. Next, they used iMovie to create a documentary podcast. Last, they shared their podcasts with one another. In this way, they were able to delve deep into the material, and drew more connections when working on the song “Sakura.”
Project-Based Learning A third approach I incorporate into my
classroom is using Project-Based Learning (PBL). PBL is a tool I have found that allows students to connect deeper with the material and music that we are teaching. In addition, it “puts it all together.” It is also a great motivational tool for students. It can build meaningful connections that students will carry for the rest of their lives. Furthermore, PBL comes from high quality repertoire.
I decided to delve deeper when I taught the Tom Paxton song “Goin’ to the
Zoo” to my kindergarten and first graders. I saw that my students were very excited by this song, and decided to draw deeper connections they could utilize outside of the classroom. First, we learned the song. Next, we discussed what animals were in the song, and used movement to act out the different animals. Next, we added our own animals to the song. This allowed them an opportunity to compose and improvise new animals and words into the song.
The final stage was constructing our
own zoo. We used art materials to create a different habitat for each animal, and decorated the classroom. For example, we used paper plates to create monkeys that hung on the wall, papier mâché to create the seal, egg cartons to create crocodiles. Afterwards, the students got to interact with their own zoo. As a final surprise, we went on a field trip to a real zoo. One of my non-verbal students started singing about the elephants when we saw a real elephant. Through this project, my students were able to create real-life connections in the real world.
While we will always have to find
new means to reach all types of learners, I have found success in my classroom utilizing three different approaches. By incorporating Differentiated Literacy
Brian Wagner received his BA and MSED in Music Education from CUNY Queens College. He is currently split between two schools in Brooklyn: PS 370K and Brooklyn School of Inquiry. He has worked with students on the elementary, middle school, and high school level. Mr. Wagner has taught: general music, string orchestra, musical theatre, and performing arts. He is a classically trained cellist, and currently plays regularly in the NYC area. He is the special learners board member of Music Educators Association of NYC (MEANYC). He has presented, and co-presented workshops for: NYSSMA, NYCDOE, SCMEA, OMEA, NJMEA, CMEA, NYSCAME, NAfME National In-Service Conference, NAfME Biennial Eastern Division Conference, NAfME Western Division Conference, and two online webinars for NAfME.
Levels, Making Connection, and Project-Based Learning, I have seen my students succeed and independently draw connections into the real world. Most importantly, they understood their success, and this provided opportunities for future musical endeavors.
This article originally appeared in School Music News, February 2015. Reprinted by permission. © 2015 by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA®)
25 Years of Service and Upcoming Retirees 2018 Conference in Evanston
Were you a first year teacher in 1993 or before? The Wyoming Music Educators Association recognizes WMEA member teachers, elementary through college, who have taught 25+ years. The recognition includes a ceremony during the WMEA conference banquet at All-State.
Or do you plan to RETIRE at the end of the 2018 school year? The Wyoming Music
Educators Association celebrates Wyoming music teachers, elementary through college, upon their retirement from teaching. The recognition includes a ceremony during the WMEA conference banquet at All-State. You may choose to be honored during your final year of teaching or the All- State following your retirement.
Contact Dan Hill at
khill8688@yahoo.com. Fall 2017 |
www.wyomea.org 49
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