Things for larger group to do while I meet w/ individuals?

[nafmeadmin]

I want to start the year with 3-4 minute personal interviews with each and every student (sixth graders). I’m not a big fan of pencil/paper activities, but I do use them occasionally. I’m looking for really creative ways for the class as a whole to continue to learn while I hold these interviews. I’d like to do approx. 10 min. of interviews each day, with 30 students, so it should take me 3 class periods to complete the interviews. I guess I’m looking for 3 different 10-minute activities for the others to do while I’m interviewing.
If it was later in the year, no problem—our routines, expectations, etc., would be laid out and understood, and we’d have plenty of projects for the kiddos to work on. But I’d like to do this THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF SCHOOL, and I’d like some of your suggestions.

[nafmeadmin]

Maybe you could introduce a small group assignment, such as writing a rhythmic composition for percussion, and have them work in groups for 10 min. while you hold the interviews. Or, have them play a music trivia game in groups that reviews concepts they learned the year before. Or if you have access to a computer cart/lab, there are various music practice tools and games available for free online.

[nafmeadmin]

Thanks, villamizare421, you reminded me of a successful rhythm comp lesson I’d used years ago–that might do the trick!

[nafmeadmin]

Patricia – would you mind sharing the lesson idea? I would love to have 3-4 minutes with each student at the beginning of the year to assess what they know. Also, do you have a specific assessment page you are using for the 1 on 1 meetings?

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