The Second and Third graders had somewhat the same motivation, but they earned their notes as an entire class. They had the opportunity to earn anywhere from a quarter note all the way up to a whole note. Their goal was to earn 20 counts. When the class earned 20 counts each student was given a certificate stating their accomplishment. Along with the certificate was a neat music sticker they could share with one another or with whomever they chose to share it with.
The fourth and fifth graders got more of a treat. When I "caught" one of them demonstrating excellent behavior, I gave them a "Noteworthy" behavior notice. Everyone who earned a notice was invited to a lunch on that Friday, but only if they had their coupon. It was their admission ticket. On that Friday, they could bring their hot lunch or sack lunch into the music room and we would all eat in there. We would chat and laugh and listen to music. At the very end, I would distribute a small dessert as their treat.
This last motivational strategy was very fun. It was a good way for me to get to know the students and they really enjoyed eating lunch in a different environment and getting to know me. It was very fun.
The program included over 150 students and was complete with speaking parts, solos, choreography, props, and instruments. It was a spectacular experience which I was very glad to be a part of although I had to change schools 2 weeks before the performance.
ELL
Cleveland is the elementary ELL (English as a Second Language or English Language Learner)school for the Cedar Rapids district, and the language barrier often provided many different and interesting experiences. However, it was the everyday interactions that provided the most learning opportunities for me.
Below are some pictures, and sample lesson plans that I developed and implemented in the classroom. Also, there are some other treasures that I either created or helped students develop on their own.
