mrsbradshaw

3rd and 4th graders have an opportunity to play recorders for part of the year. Third graders start immediately following their show in November. Fourth graders officially start their unit after their show in February, but will be playing in class all year long.

Recorders are useful for teaching several concepts in music: note reading, rhythm reading, phrasing, breath control, eye/hand coordination, and fine motor skills. They are also a great transition into band or chorus in middle school because they teach students how to read notes and follow a melodic line. Being able to play songs “all by myself” gives students a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Students will be given music papers which must be kept in a notebook or folder. The materials in the notebook will enable the student to practice their recorders when they are not in class. They are encouraged to return the sheet music when they have passed the test for that song. The system we’re using is called “Recorder Karate.” Students earn “belts” on their recorders as they play certain benchmark songs. The songs increase in difficulty as they move from white belt to black belt.

Although I have recorders for use in class, they are not to be taken out of the classroom. Therefore, each third grade student and fourth grade students new to the school will need to purchase a recorder if possible so they can practice at home in order to progress.

I order instruments periodically throughout the year. They can be purchased from me for $5 cash or check payable to Heights PTO or from most music stores. If writing a check please be aware that checks may be held for a while
until an order is put in. More information will be forthcoming as these units
get closer.

****Kids practice at home along with the CD****
Go to:
http://www.musick8.com/rkdojo/rkdojo.php
Click on "Streaming Audio"
Username: Karate
Password: Rubric