Unit Plan 6 (Grade 4 Music): Notating Rhythm & Harmony

Focus: Document rhythmic and simple harmonic ideas using notation or recording tools.

Grade Level: 4

Subject Area: Music (General Music • Creating • Performing • Responding)

Total Unit Duration: 1–3 sessions (once-weekly class), 50–60 minutes each

I. Introduction

Students transition from “keeping rhythms in their heads” to capturing musical ideas so they can be practiced, shared, and improved. They review basic rhythm notation (quarters, eighths, rests, simple patterns) and connect it to short body percussion or instrument patterns. Then they explore how to document these ideas using standard notation, iconic notation (shapes, lines), and/or simple recordings, laying a foundation for later composition projects that add basic harmony (such as drones or simple chord tones).

Essential Questions

• How can I write down or record my musical ideas so I don’t forget them?
• Why is notation helpful for sharing and improving music?
• What is the difference between rhythmic ideas and simple harmonic support (like a drone or chord tone)?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Identify and use basic rhythm notation (quarter, pair of eighth notes, quarter rest, simple repeating patterns) to represent short rhythms they create.
2. Create a short rhythm pattern (1–2 measures) and document it using standard notation and/or iconic notation (shapes, lines, or grids).
3. Add a simple harmonic support (e.g., a steady drone or repeating chord tone) to their rhythm idea using classroom instruments or voice.
4. Use notation and/or recording tools (e.g., classroom tablet/recorder) to capture their combined rhythm + harmony idea.
5. Explain how their notation or recording would help another musician recreate their musical idea.

Standards Alignment — Grade 4 Music (NAfME-Aligned)

• MU:Cr2.1.4b — Use standard and/or iconic notation and/or recording technology to document personal rhythmic, melodic, and simple harmonic musical ideas.
  • Example: Notating a rhythm using standard notation and recording a melody for later revision.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can create a short rhythm pattern and show it using music symbols or simple icons.
• I can add a steady harmonic support (like a drone or repeated pitch) to my rhythm idea.
• I can use notation or a recording so that someone else could perform my idea.
• I can explain how my notation/recording matches the way the music sounds.