Submitted by Diane Hamilton, Churchville, New York
Idea posted November 10, 2003
Objective: Compose music using minor third (S and M)
Materials: M&M's® or Skittles® (enough for each child to have four as they are consumable materials), OR non consumable materials such as pennies (four to six per student depending on whether eighth notes are going to be used); craft sticks (four to six); envelopes with two lines drawn across (one per student)
Procedures: Using the overhead as a model, show students how to lay one M&M® (Musical Munchies) or penny (Musical Money) on the top line (cutting it in half) and one on the bottom line. Repeat using the other two M&M's® or pennies. Lay the craft sticks on the right side of the M&M's® or pennies to make a quarter note, "ta." Ask students to sing their Munchy Music or Musical Money. Instruct students to copy another pattern from your example, then sing it. When students are secure in singing the patterns, ask them to create one of their own and sing it.
Musical Munchies only: If they can sing it, they get to eat the M&M's® or Skittles®. If they cannot sing it, help them to create one they can sing. Sometimes they sing something different than what they write. Help them to see if the note goes up or down, and then write what they sing rather than just moving the notes around again and again. If students have knowledge of eighth notes, add one M&M® or penny and two more sticks, using one across the top to make one set of eighth notes. Older students can add more notes and eighth notes. For a further treat, add small pretzel sticks or Twisters licorice cut into pieces as the stems to make the rhythm! Enjoy!