The TEEM evaluations
Music Maker was used with pairs of children on a single-user computer in order to practice playing
the instruments that the program contains and to understand how the pitch within sound is represented
by figures going up and down. It was also used to develop children's skills within remembering
and repeating sequences of sounds.
The software was initially introduced to the whole class and then children took turns over the
next two weeks to work on the program in pairs.
The program was primarily aimed at Key Stage 1, but was very useful when working with children
with Special Educational Needs regarding the sequencing activities.
I was able to demonstrate how the program could be used and each group was allowed a limited
amount of time to explore the program before starting the specific task.
Once working on the program themselves, the children were able to find their way around the
program and to carry out the tasks appropriately.
Click here for
the full teem evaluation.
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Music Maker supports Music at Key Stage 1. It is particularly useful for exploring pitch and
for developing simple composing skills, including the introduction of simple notation. Appraising
skills can be developed as the tunes can be saved and improved. It also encourages careful listening
to music in the activities 'Simon Says' and 'Name that Tune'. It provides a very visual introduction
to pitch, which could easily be complemented by activities involving, for example, handbells,
or xylophones. Composition could take place away from the computer and then put into practice
later using the software. The composition could also be used in a multimedia package.
The possibilities are endless, as this is composition software at a simple level. The supporting
activities complement this basic function and make it fun to explore while reinforcing learning
in Music.
Click here for
the full teem evaluation. |
