3rd Grade: Learning Half Note

Pre-Test:
 Ability to read and write quarter note tie
 Ability to describe qualities of quarter note tie (beat duration, “stretch”, etc.)
 Knowledge of another way to write rhythm pattern consisting of tie (they likely won’t
know how)

Post-Test:
 Ability to describe qualities of half note (beat duration, similarity to quarter note tie,
“stretch”, etc.)
 Ability to read rhythm patterns including half note
 Ability to write rhythm patterns including half note

I will assess the student learning impact on 3rd graders using the concept of a half note. These
3rd graders have been working on quarter note ties for quite some time, and they have all
shown mastery of it, both in reading and writing. Most of the assessment of this up until now
has been informal.

On 2/22/23, Phillips’ 3rd Grade class will do a formal pre-test on their abilities and knowledge
with quarter note ties. As they come into the classroom, I will test them one-by-one by having
them read a rhythm pattern card consisting of a quarter note tie. Each student will receive
three tries on the card and will be scored accordingly. The student will then be asked about the
qualities of a quarter note tie (beat duration, “stretch”, etc.), and will be asked if they know
another way to write out the rhythm pattern shown. They will likely not be able to give another
example of how to write it, because they will not have been taught half note yet.

During class on 2/22/23, the half note concept will be presented and practiced (and informally
assessed).

During the following class meeting on 3/2/23, the students will be formally assessed again upon
entry of the classroom (like the pre-test). This time, students will be shown a card with a
rhythm pattern consisting of a half note. They will receive three tries and be scored accordingly.
The student will then be asked about the qualities of a half note (beat duration, similarity to
quarter note tie, “stretch”, etc.). The students will also complete an activity during class where
they are required to notate rhythm patterns individually. I will score them accordingly on their
ability to notate these patterns.

If students are able to proficiently read, write, and describe half note patterns, they will have
showcased learning of the half note concept.