Lesson Plan

• Identify and apply the correct clef, key signature, and time signature when setting up a staff.
• Accurately place notes, rests, dynamics, and articulations on the staff with proper spacing.
• Produce clear, readable notation using standard symbols and consistent layout.
• Explain and employ alternative notation methods (chord symbols, tablature, graphic notation) with a legend when required.
• Self‑evaluate completed scores using the provided checklist.

• Manuscript (staff) paper
• Whiteboard and markers
• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Printed handouts of notation symbols and self‑check checklist
• Audio playback device for student examples
• Optional notation software (e.g., MuseScore) for demonstration

Begin with a quick visual puzzle of a poorly notated excerpt to spark curiosity. Review that students already know basic note values and clefs from previous lessons. Explain that today they will master accurate, readable notation and will be able to check their own work using a checklist.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Students complete a short checklist identifying errors in a sample score.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Review clef, key, time signatures and spacing; demonstrate setting up a staff on the board.
3. Guided practice (15') – Teacher models notating a 4‑measure melody, adding dynamics and articulations; students follow on their paper.
4. Alternative notation demo (10') – Show chord‑symbol and simple tab examples; discuss graphic symbols and create a brief legend.
5. Independent activity (20') – Students compose a 16‑measure melody in G major (4/4), notate it, and add a chord‑symbol accompaniment.
6. Peer review (10') – Pairs exchange scores, use the self‑check checklist, and give constructive feedback.
7. Wrap‑up & exit ticket (5') – Students write one mastery point and one lingering question on a sticky note.

Recap the key steps for clean, accurate notation and highlight common errors to avoid. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign homework: refine the composed melody based on peer feedback and submit a clean final copy.