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Showing posts from September, 2021

Episode #97: Dear New Teachers

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Music Teacher Coffee Talk · MTCT Episode #97: Dear New Teachers...   In this episode, Tanya and Carrie share advice for new teachers who are in year one or two of their teaching career. Main Theme 1. Find your inspiration Craft your mission statement or philosophy. Find and follow teachers who resonate with your philosophy. Be inspired by the musical literature you are using with your students. Choose things you love! 2. Seek out professional development Attend local workshops (Kodály, Orff, Dalcroze, etc). They are well worth the time and money. Attend summer training if you are ready. Don't pile on too many trainings in one summer! Attend state/county conferences and network with local music educators. 3. Find systems that work for you Are you a digital or paper planner? Where and when do you plan best? What are the sustainable routines you can establish now for your classroom and for yourself? 4. Learn to scaffold and break things down How can you break down activities into me

Episode #96: New Beginnings: Getting Students on the Same Page

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Music Teacher Coffee Talk · MTCT Episode #96: New Beginnings: Getting Students on the Same Page   In this episode, Carrie and Tanya discuss ideas for New Beginnings in the music room. Theses are ideas that apply to older beginners, students who are new to your school community or to you, and students you are welcoming back after a long period of remote learning. It's all about getting those students on the same page, not only in their musical skills and concept understanding, but also reviewing norms, procedures, and expectations to start the year of right. Main Theme Great Resource for teaching older beginners: Directions to Literacy: Teaching the Older Beginner by Ann Eisen and Lamar Robertson Tanya's High Note: Tideo Songs/Activities build community musicking through steady beat/pulse: Here is some great background on Ye Toop Doram! Ye Toop Doram video Songs/Activities for reinforcing norms and procedures: Cup Game tutorial video Sasha video The Qball microphone is a grea