Teach students HOW to practice

My beginning orchestra has been working on a piece called 'A Spark of Courage' by Doug Spata.  It's a bit of a stretch for them, but they love the music so much they are really working hard and it has helped students solidify fingerpatterns and notereading.  Today I wanted to work carefully with each individual section.  In order to do this, I created an assignment for students to complete while waiting for their turn to work with me.  It worked out really well and students picked up some really helpful tips for practicing.  This is a great assignment for any level.

1.  Read the article "8 Things Top Practicers Do Differently." 

2.  Complete the worksheet:

This was great for the day before Thanksgiving break - it left students motivated to keep working and practicing over the holiday.