Easy Music Sub Plans: Simple Solutions for Busy Teachers

Looking for a hassle-free way to integrate music into your lessons? Easy-peasy! Here's your cheat sheet for crafting seamless music sub plans that will save you time and keep your students engaged.

Firstly, let's debunk the myth that including music in your lessons means you need a degree in music theory or have to donn a 'Mr. Holland's Opus' persona. Not quite! With these sub plans, you'll be rocking in no time.

Setting the Stage: Planning Your Music Sub Plans

Before you start, visualize your goals. What do you want your students to achieve? Will it be an exploration of rhythm, melody, or simply a fun listen-and-appreciate session? Having clear objectives will keep your sub plans on track.

Remember, NASA doesn't compile a bunch of randomly selected numbers and call it a mission to the moon. Similarly, not everything that sounds good in your headphones will work in your classroom. So, plan, plan, plan!

Selecting the Right Tracks

The music you choose should complement your lesson, not compete with it. If you're teaching a history lesson, period-accurate music can set the mood. For a language arts lesson, go for instrumentals or music with minimal lyrics.

But what if you're not well-versed with different genres or eras? No worries! Services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube playlists can be your best friends. Search for 'classical music for study' or 'ambient electronica' and explore the suggestions. Stumped on finding music for a specific topic? Ask your students for recommendations – they might introduce you to something remarkable!

Integrating Music into Lessons

Now that you have your tracks ready, it's time to weave them into your lessons. Here are some sneaky ways:

• Brain Breaks: Use music to signal transitions between activities or subjects. It can also be a welcome respite during long hours of concentration.
• Listening Sessions: Set aside time for full-length listening. Use this time to discuss the structure of the song, lyrics, or mood it evokes.
• Original Compositions: Inspired by a piece they've listened to, encourage students to create their own music using classroom instruments or apps like GarageBand.

Pro tip: Always screen lyrics and check for appropriateness. Even The Beatles might have a word or two unsuitable for younger audiences.

Keeping It Going: Sub Plan Ideas

How do you continue the music magic when you're not around? Here's how you can create engaging sub plans:

Think beyond 'show up, play music, leave.' Give your sub clear instructions, provide support materials, and ensure success for both sub and students.

Step-by-Step Sub Plans

Break down your lesson into clear, manageable steps. Use a handout or PowerPoint presentation to guide the sub. Include time estimations and reminders about classroom norms (e.g., turning off phones, maintaining volume levels).

Example: '_Step 1: Welcome students. _Step 2: Play 'Ode to Joy.' _ Step 3: Discuss lyrics and musical elements.'_

Pre-created Playlists

Create playlists that accompany a specific topic or theme. This way, your sub just needs to press 'play' instead of hunting for music on the fly. Include instructions on the playlist itself, like '_Listen to songs 1-3, then discuss and proceed to song 4.'_

You can even create interactive playlists using platforms like Soundtrap or Genius. These allow students to collaborate, add their own tracks, and share ideas.

Interactive Games and Activities

Engage students (and your sub) with interactive activities. '_Music Bunco_' is a fun game where students roll dice, and depending on the number they roll, they answer a music-related question. Or they can create their own '_Musical Lotería_' cards as a review of topics learned in class.

Remember, the goal is to make music sub plans as easy and engaging for everyone involved. You might even find some gems that you can incorporate into your regular lessons once you're back!

As you integrate music into your lessons, remember the journey is just as important as the destination. It's okay if every session doesn't hit a high note – the key is to keep practising, keep experimenting, and above all, keep it fun and engaging. Happy teaching!