That’s Just Life - 5thGraders, Kalamazoo Public Schools District
Made and produced by music teacher, Jennifer Boyer
Teaching songs online is a challenge. Here is a outstanding example of how not only teaching but creating a long term quality resource. It could offer you some fantastic ideas
Here are the learning areas in one video I identified.
It is personalised, well scaffolded, uses echo to teach melodic lines, explains arrangement, the importance of counting, understanding where music sits in the rhythm. There is flexibility in what the students can do, the band/orchestra students are encouraged to improvise or play root chords/notes. For those students who wish, they can express themselves through singing and dance improvisation.
Jennifer recorded her own take of the vocals, and has the confidence to move freely which in turn, I believe gives freedom for her students to do the same.
Being able to produce her own videos is a huge advantage. The beauty of this approach is that this resource that can be adapted and used again.
I love the idea of the kids dancing to That’s Just Life on a subway ride!! I love the interaction of parents and kids, and siblings. What a joy!
This is what Jennifer has said regarding using Cool4School
‘I love your site! The songs are so good! I have been using them since I purchased my membership a ton. I am teaching on line and create videos of myself singing the songs so the kids get to see a familiar face.
I feel your approach with the things you are providing to teachers online, is one of the coolest I’ve seen!”
The important lesson here is that you can interpret songs from Cool4School in your own way, or just use videos to follow.
Thank you for the wonderful video.
