So and Mi Patterns

My 2nd graders always need a little "so" and "mi" refresher at the beginning of the year.  I created the following printable powerpoints so I didn't have to keep drawing and erasing on my wipe board.  I like to print them out and laminate them because this brings my kiddos in closer proximity to me and it is easier for me to hear them.  You may decide to project this on a white or SMART board.

First, we review their relationship using my solfa houses (see below).  We also use my large foam circles on my floor staff.  Then, we're ready to see them on the music staff.

I review the following vocabulary terms with the students and identify them on the first slide: time signature, double bar line, measure, and staff.  We also review pitch and melody.  

Note: The students understand that these are one measure melodies created with high (so) and low (mi) pitches.  They also know that the staff is a home for pitches, and that the pitches can move around (I use the moveable"Do" system - right now they are concerned with where "So" lives so they can find "Mi").  My students also know that "So" is really called "Sol" - we don't sing "Sol" because I don't like the addition of the "l" sound.  It can be tricky for some students to sing.

Then, we try "So and Mi Patterns Level 1".  There are six different levels - we often don't get to all six in one class (this is a short, warm-up activity).   Level 1 uses So and Mi patterns in C, F, and G major using quarter notes only.

Once they've mastered Level 1, we go on to "So and Mi Patterns Level 2".  There are six different levels with a preliminary rhythm level.  Level 2 uses So and Mi patterns in C, F, and G major using quarter notes and eighth note pairs.

I'm working on Level 3 (adding quarter rests).  This is a great way to review basic rhythms as well.  You could also add boomwhackers or Orff instruments to the melodies, as well as have the students work on singing two melodic patterns at once (they love this - especially if I sing one and tell them, "Don't let me mess you up!")

Level 1 (more instructions are included here): So and Mi Patterns Level 1
Level 2 (more instructions are included here): So and Mi Patterns Level 2