Music

**State Standard:** Ohio Department of Education, Music Standards. Analyzing and Responding: Students listen to a varied repetoire of music and respond by analyzing and describing music using correct terminology. Students evaluate the creating and performing of music by using appropriate criteria. Benchmark A: Analyze and evaluate music selections based upon established criteria.


 * Assignment:** Students will work in pairs and choose an influential artist from the 1970's and 1980's, such as Prince, Queen, the Bee-Gees, Paul Simon (Graceland), Led Zepplin, or Michael Jackson. Students will research the database ABC Dig Music, located at [], and write a three to five paragraph biography of the artist or group they have chosen using Microsoft Word. Students will then choose a song from the artist and listen to it using the database (if available), then write down the instruments used, the style of the song, and analyze the rhythm and beat of the song. Students will then present a report to the class with their findings, including audio of the song they have chosen. As the students are presenting, the remaining students will take notes and document the name of the song, instruments used, the style, and any other valid information. When the presentations are finished, students will discuss and analyze the similarities and differences in the songs.


 * Approach:** This lesson is tried and true since students have been searching databases, creating documents, and presenting information for many years.


 * Scholarly Research:** This article reinforces the idea that technology is effective at encouraging collaboration and motivating students. Many web sites offer interactive music lessons that students enjoy. Technology is constantly changing, and it's important for teachers to be flexible and adaptable in order to integrate the new technologies into their lessons.


 * Citation:** Olson, Catherine Applefeld. (2010). Making the Tech Connection. //Teaching Music//. 17(5), p30-35.