Encourage tinkering with ideas, relationships, connections. Set up situations where students have to find information not readily available in school texts. Provide opportunity for students to design open-ended explorations of the concept. Provide multiple options so students can plan a unique "proof" of learning.

Student Compositons

Objective: Students will create an original eight measure composition in 4/4 time.
Activity: Each student creates an original eighth measure rhythmic composition in 4/4 time. The student must be able to perform their own composition.
*Divide the class into groups of four or five for purposes of sharing compositions. Small groups check all compositions for rhythmic accuracy and together they make any necessary changes.
*Each group selects sixteen measures to use in designing a creative performance involving body percussion, movement, and/or rhythm instruments. Each group composition is notates on a large sheet of paper and put up for all to see. (Teacher now collects the individual compositions to evaluate for understanding of concepts.)
*Allow time for creativity and for the group to practice their performance. (Standards 2,4)
Assessment: Teacher checks individual compositions for accuracy; monitors group activities.