Submitted by Sharon Maes, Wisconsin

Idea posted April 2, 2004

My fifth graders explore a melody and meter unit. At the end of the unit, we play "Melody/Meter Mission." As each student enters the room, they are handed a sealed envelope. The envelope states:

"Welcome to Meter/Melody Mission. Inside you will find 13 measures of three familiar songs. The songs are "The Star Spangled Banner," "Merrily We Roll Along," and "London Bridge." Your Mission: To piece together the measures of music to complete the first phrases of the above tunes. Good Luck!"

During their mission, we play the theme song from Mission Impossible. When their mission is accomplished, the student raises their hand for me to verify their answers, and we celebrate with a treat!