Music Notation Unit – Part I: Centers

1. Introduce the notes in the treble clef staff according to the method you use.  I use “Every Good Boy Does Fine” and “FACE” and I actually use the BrainPOP Jr. video “Musical Alphabet” – if you or your school subscribes to BrainPOP, I highly recommend using this 6-minute video.  It’s fun, entertaining, and even educational!!  
2. Review with students by doing some online drill.  I like Ricci Adams’ MusicTheory.net – see the exercises page to customize a drill for the note you are concentrating on.  
3. Divide students into groups depending on the number of the following centers you will be using. 

• Computers – spell words with note names using ClassicsForKids game “Note Names“
• Flashcards – print, copy, and cut enough flashcards sets for the number of pairs of students you have in a group.  These flashcards are from MakingMusicFun.net (a great site!!!)
• Worksheets – I used the Color That Note | Treble Clef | G Position worksheet from MakingMusicFun.net.  Make enough copies for all students so that they have one to take with them.  
• Bingo Chip (or Candy) Staff – Print out and make enough copies for pairs in groups of the staff graphic.  Give each pair some round candies (Skittles, M&Ms, and Spree work great) or Bingo chips and have pairs quiz each other by placing the candy/chips on the staff for different notes. 

Rotate through each center for 8-12 minutes, depending on the amount of time you have.  This will more than likely take up more than 1 class period, if you have class times like I do.