Unit Plan 8 (Grade 3 Music): Rhythm Ensemble Playing

Focus: Perform rhythm patterns in small ensembles with technical accuracy and appropriate expression, using rehearsal strategies to improve group performance.

Grade Level: 3

Subject Area: Music (Rhythm • Ensemble • Performance)

Total Unit Duration: 1–3 sessions (3+ weeks), 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, students move from playing rhythms alone to performing them in small rhythm ensembles. They learn what it means to rehearse: repeating tricky spots, listening to each other, and adjusting to play together with a steady beat, accurate patterns, and expressive dynamics. Students practice starting and stopping together, balancing sound, and following simple cues. By the end of the unit, each group can perform a short rhythm ensemble piece with clear technical accuracy and expressive intent.

Essential Questions

• What does it mean to rehearse for technical accuracy and expression in a rhythm ensemble?
• How can we listen and work together so that our rhythm patterns fit and stay in time as a group?
• How do performers use dynamics, tempo, and other expressive qualities to show their intent in a rhythm performance?
• What rehearsal strategies help us fix mistakes and strengthen our ensemble performance?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Perform short rhythm patterns (4–8 beats) accurately in small groups, maintaining a steady beat.
2. Use rehearsal strategies (slowing down, clapping only, repeating difficult measures, counting beats) to improve accuracy and ensemble togetherness.
3. Follow and give simple cues (e.g., count-in, hand signal) for clear starts, stops, and dynamic changes in a rhythm ensemble.
4. Perform a short rhythm ensemble piece with appropriate dynamics and tempo that support expressive intent.
5. Reflect on rehearsals and performances, describing what went well and what could be improved in accuracy and expression.

Standards Alignment — Grade 3 Music (NAfME-Aligned)

• MU:Pr5.1.3b — Rehearse to refine technical accuracy, expressive qualities, and identified performance challenges.
  • Example: Repeating difficult measures to improve accuracy.
• MU:Pr6.1.3a — Perform music with expression and technical accuracy.
  • Example: Singing in tune with appropriate dynamics.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can play my rhythm part with the correct pattern and a steady beat.
• I can work with my group to rehearse, fix mistakes, and make our ensemble sound better.
• I can start and stop together with my group and follow cues.
• I can use dynamics and tempo to make our rhythm ensemble more expressive.
• I can explain one way my group improved during rehearsal and one thing we did well in our final performance.