Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Music
Lesson Topic: Interpret music with appropriate style and awareness of musical context.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the key elements of musical interpretation (tempo, dynamics, articulation, phrasing, expression, style).
  • Analyse a score to identify contextual and expressive markings.
  • Apply appropriate stylistic choices based on historical context in a performance.
  • Evaluate a recorded performance against criteria of technical accuracy and expressive intent.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and audio system
  • Printed scores (excerpt)
  • Recording device (smartphone or tablet)
  • Worksheet with revision checklist and planning sheet
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Imagine hearing a Baroque piece performed with the energy of a rock concert – the contrast sparks curiosity. Students already know basic note reading, rhythm, and dynamics, which they will build on today. By the end of the lesson they will demonstrate a stylistically informed interpretation and be able to explain their choices.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – Complete the quick revision checklist on score analysis and context.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Review the six elements of musical interpretation and why historical context matters.
  3. Score analysis activity (15') – In pairs annotate a short excerpt, marking tempo, dynamics, articulation, phrasing, and style notes.
  4. Listening comparison (10') – Play a historically informed recording; discuss how the elements are applied.
  5. Planning interpretation (10') – Groups decide tempo range, dynamics, articulation, and expressive devices; record decisions on the planning sheet.
  6. Guided practice (15') – Slow practice focusing on technical accuracy, then layer dynamics and articulation.
  7. Performance & reflection (15') – Record a brief performance, peer‑review using the rubric, and note adjustments.
  8. Exit ticket (5') – Write one specific change to implement in the next rehearsal.
Conclusion:
We recap the six interpretive elements and how the historical context guided the students’ choices. The exit ticket confirms each learner’s next actionable step, and for homework they will rehearse the excerpt incorporating feedback and write a short reflection on how their interpretation aligns with the period style.