Observation #1

2/5/15

(I had typed up an entry for this first observation, but it didn't save. I'll try to remember as much as I can)

During my first observation, I noticed a lot of wonderful things. There were noticeable individual characteristics within the class: there were some students who spoke out with comments, and Bethany acknowledged them, but moved on. The class was a little on the chatty side, but Bethany knew how to get the class focused again. 

The most noticeable part of my first observation was the warm-up routine. She began with stretching and told the class to "channel our inner gym class". She then told them to shake it out, to which a few students sang "Shake it Out". I smiled, thinking that I would've done the same thing at that age. 

Bethany used fun and engaging warm-ups, which I think is crucial for middle-schools. One of the exercises was "Fe fah fe fah" (1, 5, 1, 5, 123454321). She also did "Bee bi bicki bi boo", which was a request. 

Bethany played the left hand bass notes, and the right hand chords. I know it will be important for me to learn how to do this. I want to be able to play piano when my future students warm up.

She then asked the students to sing a scale on solfege with hand signals. I need to learn how to do the hand signs, because I think it is important to have the visual and kinesthetic reminder. She asked them to then do just the hand signs and audiate the pitches. I think audiation is so important! Not just in early childhood or general elementary, but at every age. 

Since it was the week before the concert, their pieces were quite polished. Bethany had to work on only a few notes and tempo issues. She asked them to sing full, and with volume. She worked on annunciating the words and making the text clear. 

"Stretch up, when lower arms come down, that's where the chest should be". That is a great reminder on how the posture should be. 

I really enjoyed watching Bethany rehearse with the middle-schoolers. I can't wait to observe more classes, teach a few warm-ups, and eventually run a rehearsal!