Bringing Student Home Materials to Lessons
Found in: Practicing & Playlists
Genevieve P., Utah
I’m just finishing up the training for the new Playlist/Notes books (which seem really great & I echo all your comments that Sheri & Jy are fantastic!). However, I had a big question come to mind. They mentioned bringing ONLY the playlist/notes books to class.
I have always had my students bring their own SHM to class. If they forget then we use my copies. Of course they have these huge bags full of books to lug each week. Do most of you just always use your own copies and then students use theirs at home only? Did I miss something in my training 2 1/2 years ago?
What about Reading Rhythm & Reading notes? I always keep track in their book with a little initial next to the project they’ve completed. I could keep track in my own records but what about the writing & transcribing projects? Don’t we want them to bring & use their own books?
Anyway, I can definitely see the benefit to my students to not lug everything each week but I’d like to hear how it’s “supposed” to be done and how you do it.
Jy and Sheri, California
We’re not sure exactly the context of us mentioning bringing only the playlist/notes book to the lessons other than perhaps to state that students now only need to remember to bring one book rather than two, since the two are combined into the new format.
Of course, when students start the reading programs, they also bring those books (be sure their names are on them!) Additionally, you might ask them to bring their accompaniment book to the appropriate lesson so that they can write the I, IV, and V in the appropriate places when the time comes. They will also be bringing in their own reading material eventually.
We also advise our students, once they start getting into Level 3 and above, to start binders for keeping at home to help them keep track of all their books.
Pamela M., Canada
I only have them bring their playlist and note books. Better chance of not forgetting or misplacing SHM’s that way. Saw not too long ago one of the teachers has laminated all of her books, brilliant idea that I am in the process of doing now.
Nita P., Utah
I also just have students bring only their Playlist/Notes book to lessons and we use my books in class which I have put into clear protective sheet covers in a binder. When students get to RR, then I ask them to bring the MOR book for processing, writing & transcribing rhythms. But I also just laminated some pages to use in class for doing this in case they forget their books and for extra practice when pages in their books are filled.
Merri W., Georgia
Well, I guess I’m like you, Genevieve. I’ve always had my students bring their materials to lessons. It’s part of what I consider *their* responsibility – to be prepared and bring everything with them.
Plus I’m having issues right now with a pinched nerve in my right shoulder, so I’ve had to lighten my “rolling office” that I carry with me to lessons. I am rapidly approaching the point that I literally can’t carry all of the different levels any more.
I also like to reward my students with a star or sticker whenever they complete a piece that they, in turn, place on the appropriate page in their reference book. I guess it’s still some of my “traditional” teaching background coming out, but they seem to enjoy picking out what color star they want to put in their book, and it’s always there with them at home as a reminder when they review their playlist as an encouragement that – yes! – they have completed certain pieces in their books.
I haven’t seen the new Playlist/Notes book, but I’m looking forward to receiving it soon when my next shipment arrives.