1. Topic-
Math in Music
 
2. Content-
Using 2,3 and 4 beat pulses to illustrate grouping in multiplication.
 
3. Goals: Aims/Outcomes-
1. To incorporate kinesthetic learning into mathematics.
2. To recognize non-numerical patterning.
3. To recognize patterning of groups as a strategy for multiplication.
 
4. Objectives-
1. Students will adopt a strategy for solving the given problem(s).
2. Students will be able to communicate and reason their strategy.
3. Students will make connections between mathematics and its application in music.
 
5. Materials and Aids-
Cleared space for group movement.
Challenge questions handout.
 
6. Procedures/Methods-

A. Introduction-

Personal story
 

B. Development-

1. Standing in a circle, explain what a pulse is, and demonstrate 2-beat pulse using simple side-to-side step motions. Have students attempt.
2. Model 3-beat pulse using triangular formation step pattern. Have students attempt.
3. Model 4-beat pulse using square formation step pattern. Have students attempt.
4. Incorporate clap into last step of 2,3 and 4 beat pulses. Have students attempt.
5. Break circle into 3 groups and assign each one a pulse pattern with clap. Instruct students that once the routine has started, listen for all 3 groups clapping together.
6. Attempt a few rounds of each pulse until a simultaneous group clap is heard.
 

C. Practice-

1. Bring students to carpet. Ask if everyone heard the simultaneous clap from all three groups - was it every time or every once and awhile?
2. Build a question regarding how to find out when this clap happens.
 

D. Independent Practice-

1. Question 1 (given orally): How many beats does it take for a 2, 3 and 4 beat pulse to meet up?
2. Question 2: How often will the 2-beat, 3-beat and 4-beat pulses meet in a piece of music that is 72 beats long? Show your work.
3. What about a piece of music that is 156 beats long?
 

E. Accommodations (Differentiated Instruction)-

1. Adapted step routine for challenged students.
2. Opportunity to begin problem when ready.
3. Small group instruction.
4. Additional challenge activity provided.
 

F. Checking for understanding-

1. Sharing of strategies (incomplete on day of lesson)
2. Use of appropriate language (i.e. beats)
3. One-on-one interviewing of solutions and strategies
 

G. Closure-

Sharing of strategies (incomplete on day of lesson)
 
7. Evaluation-
1. Participation
2. Anecdotal Reporting
3. Completion of primary problem
4. Application of solution to problems of increased complexity
 
8. Teacher Reflection-
Unintentional illustration of pictorial strategy led majority of students to attempt same strategy which limited full understanding and ownership of strategy. Improper timing led to a rushed closure without time to share strategies.
 

This Lesson Plan is available at (www.teacherjet.com)