Unit Plan 4 (Grade 5 Orchestra): First Finger Patterns
Grade 5 orchestra unit teaching first-finger placement, reading basics, and simple melodies to build pitch accuracy, tone, and confident string playing.
Focus: Introduce left-hand finger placement using first-finger patterns while reading and performing simple beginning string music.
Grade Level: 5
Subject Area: Orchestra (Technique • Reading • Pitch)
Total Unit Duration: 1–2 weeks, 30-minute sessions
I. Introduction
Students take their next step as string players by adding the first finger to their open strings. They learn how to set up a relaxed left-hand shape, place the first finger accurately on the string, and connect what they see in notation to what they feel and hear on their instruments. Through echo patterns and short exercises, students experience how first-finger patterns create new notes and simple melodies while maintaining steady tempo and clear tone.
Essential Questions
- How does my left-hand shape and first finger placement affect the notes I play?
- How can I use first-finger patterns and open strings to build simple melodies?
- How does notation (lines, spaces, note names) connect to finger placement on my instrument?
- What daily habits can help me keep my first-finger notes accurate and in time with the group?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a relaxed left-hand shape and place the first finger correctly on at least one main string (e.g., D or A).
- Read and perform short open-string + first-finger patterns using simple rhythms and steady tempo.
- Maintain mostly clear tone while adding first-finger patterns, adjusting finger placement as needed.
- Identify at least one note name that uses the first finger and match it to the correct string and finger.
- Complete a short First Finger Pattern Mini-Performance showing accurate first-finger placement, steady tempo, and basic reading.
Standards Alignment — Grade 5 Orchestra (custom, NAfME-style)
- OR:Pr4.5b — Read and perform beginning string music using standard notation with simple rhythms, basic finger patterns, and steady tempo.
- Example: Students perform a short melody using quarter notes and first-finger patterns.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can set up my left hand with a relaxed shape and place my first finger on the correct spot.
- I can read and play short patterns that use open strings and first-finger notes at a steady tempo.
- I can keep my tone mostly clear while adding first-finger patterns.
- I can name at least one first-finger note and find it on my instrument.