As we wrap up our studies of “The Star Spangled Banner,” students in Grade 4 reviewed rhythmic dictation, with a twist. The class divided into two teams. One team read then clapped the rhythm; the other team listened then wrote it out. The class moved on to the next rhythm only after all agreed the dictated rhythm was correct.
In the past, the music teacher played the rhythm and students took dictation. This time, the reading/clapping team was responsible for making sure their beat was steady and everyone on the team understood and could play the rhythm. Starting with simpler rhythms, the challenges got progressively harder until one student proclaimed, “This is hard! And fun!” which is music to any teacher’s ears.
