Units of Study / ARTS ACHIEVE MUSIC UNIT: MIDDLE SCHOOL
Music Composition
What makes a "good" melody?
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Unit Summary
Inquiry Question: Does creation, self- and peer-assessment of student compositions increase appreciation of good melodic choices and melodic quality?
In this course, students explored the components of melody and composed their own based on their understandings. Students first experience composition within a structured framework of limited pitches and rhythms. They assess their own work, and the work of their peers, using a checklist, and revise their work appropriately. Students have the opportunity to play their work for the class and record it for self-assessment. As the melodies evolve, students are introduced to advanced concepts including musical form.
Use of Technology
Technology was integrated into the formative assessments through the use of iPads as instruments, namely keyboards for composition and peer editing.
Big Ideas
- Composers often revise their work until they reach a desired melody.
- “Good” melodies are usually cohesive, creative and memorable.
- The form and scale help create a cohesive composition.
- Pitches must be correctly and clearly notated for others to play a piece.
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