4th Grade  Project 6 weeks

"4th Grade Harmony Hits"

Felipe G
MU:Pr6.1.4.a
MU:Cr3.2.4.a
MU:Pr5.1.4.b
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage 4th-grade students in the creative process of composing, recording, and performing an original song, fostering their musical expression and technical skills. Through collaboration and the use of technology like GarageBand, students will explore storytelling through melody and lyrics, while reflecting on their learning journey. This hands-on experience will help students develop self-directed learning, critical thinking, and a sense of identity and belonging, culminating in a performance that connects them with their community.

Learning goals

Students will explore the process of composing original music by utilizing technology such as GarageBand to create unique songs. They will learn to integrate melody, lyrics, and various musical elements to craft a memorable composition that tells a story. Throughout the project, students will collaborate with peers and music teachers, refining their work through feedback and self-reflection to enhance technical accuracy and expressive qualities. The project will culminate in a performance, allowing students to present their final compositions to an audience, fostering a sense of identity and belonging within their community.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] MU:Pr6.1.4.a - Perform music, alone or with others, with expression and technical accuracy, and appropriate interpretation.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] MU:Cr3.2.4.a - Present the final version of personal created music to others, and explain connection to expressive intent.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] MU:Pr5.1.4.b - Rehearse to refine technical accuracy and expressive qualities, and address performance challenges.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively compose, record, and perform an original song that reflects their unique stories and perspectives. Throughout the project, they will create digital music compositions using GarageBand, applying learned techniques in melody, lyrics, and musical elements. The final product will be a polished song recorded and shared with the school community, accompanied by an explanation of the creative process and expressive intent. This song will serve as a lasting memory for the 4th-grade class and demonstrate their growth in musical expression and collaboration.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic "Today at Apple" workshop where students explore GarageBand's features and capabilities. They will engage in hands-on activities, experimenting with sound loops, creating melodies, and recording their voices. This immersive experience will spark creativity and excitement, setting the stage for composing their original songs.

Exhibition

At the culmination of the project, students will showcase their original songs during a special performance event for parents and the Lowe School community. This exhibition will include a live performance where students share the story behind their song, highlighting the creative process and collaboration involved. The event will also feature a digital gallery where attendees can listen to recorded versions of the songs and view reflections on the use of technology in music composition. This celebration will foster a sense of achievement and belonging, as students present their work to an authentic audience.