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MATH

 

Lesson 3

Lesson Title:  Mnemonics, Math & Music

Synopsis: This lesson plan helps students remember ANY mathematical concept through song.  The lesson plan will use the quadratic formula as its foundation, but could be substituted with any mathematical process with which students must demonstrate proficiency.

Authors:  J. Frankel & K. O’Malley

Interdisciplinary Pairing:  Mathematics & Music

 

Objectives: 

  • Students will create songs as mnemonic devices to help them remember mathematical formulas such as:
    • The Order of Operations (PEMDAS)
    • The Quadratic Formula
    • Multiplying binomials (FOIL)

Prior Knowledge & Skills: 

  • The students should already be familiar with the mathematical concepts they are creating mnemonic devices for.

Equipment: 

  • Computer lab with sequencing or digital audio software with recording capabilities
    • GarageBand, Acid Music Studio, or Audacity
  • Internet access
  • Suggested:  internal or external microphone; USB keyboard controller

 

Duration: 

This lesson takes place over 2 - 3 45-minute class periods.

Materials:

Procedure:

Day 1:

  • Teacher will distribute the LESSON 3 ASSIGNMENT HANDOUT
  • Teacher will divide students into groups of 2 or 3.
  • Students will visit the MathMem Website to select the mathematical concept for their mnemonic song.
  • Students select the formula they will write the song about
  • Students will plan out their song/write lyrics.

Day 2:

  • Teacher will review with students how to use GarageBand or Audacity.
  • Students will utilize loops to create a musical accompaniment to their lyrics.
  • Students will continue working on their songs for the remainder of the period
  •  

Day 3:

  • Students are given ample time to complete their songs
  • Occasionally perform student examples for class critique or think, pair, share
  • Play finished product and critique

 Evaluation:

  • SCORING RUBRIC - LESSON 3
    • Scoring final project
    • Put on school website - math department

Lesson Extension:
          

  • Teacher will post the songs on the math department website as study-aids for other students.
  • Students could create their own website similar to MathMem that includes their songs and links to other helpful math websites.

 

 

 

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