Utilizing Technology - Playing Tests for the 21st Century

I'm a believer in playing tests.  I don't do practice cards, so playing tests are used to motivate students to work and practice.  Normally on playing test days (every 2 weeks) I listen to 40-50 students in 45 minutes or less.  As I listen I frantically jot down comments on my rubric and students are given an opportunity to reflect, improve, and re-take any playing test for a better score.  I have noticed that some students don't read my comments and don't make needed changes to improve their playing.  I would like students to take on more responsibility for their learning and growth.  This year I will be implement a new kind of playing test which will help students take ownership for their playing.

Here's how it's going to work:

I will be using google classroom with each of my classes this year.  Students will need a google classroom account AND a Seesaw.com account.   SeeSaw is great because it can be accessed on any device.  There is a SeeSaw app for smart phones...but if students don't have a phone they can use computers with webcams or chomebooks.

I will assign playing tests on google classroom with specific directions.  Students receive a link to a google form which contains instructions for the test as well as a rubric where students will grade THEMSELVES.  Students will be instructed to grade themselves carefully.  They must PROVE and justify their grade by performing their playing test in SeeSaw.  I can then review any video and see if I agree with the rubric students submit.   The great thing about SeeSaw is that it creates a portfolio so students can go back and review any playing test.  They can see their progress throughout the year.

Here is a link to a sample playing test so you can see how it works:

BEGINNING ORCHESTRA: PLAYING TEST 1

Here are some screen shots:

FUN IDEA for your Beginning String Orchestra! Teach proper position.

Wanna be a cool orchestra teacher?  Try this idea with your beginners!

I've been listening to the song 'Keep Your Head Up' and I love it!  Perfect for bow exercises...but it got me thinking...  If I could change the words a little - especially in the chorus - it would be perfect to use to teach proper instrument position.  So I changed the words to the song:

I plan on having my orchestra learn the words (at least to the chorus) and sing them while we are setting our left hand positions.  I purchased the karaoke version of the song on iTunes and students can sing along.

But here's another awesome thing you can do...

Buy the Karaoke version and the regular version of "Keep Your Head Up" by Andy Grammer, then get the free app: ANYTUNE.  Select the music in the app and transpose the music UP 2 half steps by clicking on the sharp sign (lower right side) 2 times.

Now you can use this tune for students to practice the D string notes!  I created this sheet music for students to play along with the transposed version of the song.  Playing along with this familiar song will help students tune their notes and stay together as a group.  Plus it's super fun!

Lesson Plan Template for Orchestra

I really try to be organized and have looked for the perfect teacher planner to help me keep track of everything.  I've never been able to find anything that works perfectly for a middle school orchestra teacher, so I created some printable templates to make my own teacher planner binder.  This is way less expensive than buying a pre-made planner full of un-needed or non-applicable pages.  Check it out and for a limited time you may download for free HERE!

8 pages total - includes a lesson plan template for orchestra rehearsals, year at a glance, weekly overview, concert piece lists, instruments needing repair, communication log, music wish list, and participation point tracker. Easy to use - just print as many pages as you need and compile them in a binder with tabs for each section by class. Simple and easy with no fluff.

Traffic Sign Orchestra Classroom Decor

If you are looking to add some posters to your orchestra classroom, here are some traffic signs specially designed with orchestra in mind!  There are 10 signs total.  You may purchase them at by TPT site.  Each sign may be printed in color - size 8.5 x 11.   Enjoy!

Orchestra Seating Chart - redesigned

I've been using the same seating chart for awhile and I was ready for a change.  My old chart used squares to show where the seats go in my classroom.  I re-designed my chart and used circles so students can more easily see the semi-circle layout of the chairs.  The circles are grouped in 2's to show stand partners.  Once I have my final numbers I will color code the circles by section and try to streamline seating chart changes with some pre-determined variations.  This chart is based on the size of my room....I can't fit any more chairs than this.  If this chart would help you feel free to use it!  You can download it for free on my Teachers Pay Teachers site.  :)