Just In Case Plans

 Every teacher needs a stash of simple worksheets. They can be used for days when the tech isn't working, or when a student (or class) is misbehaving, sub plans, or early finishers. They're also great for those days you've lost your voice, or you haven't had time to plan. It's even a good idea to have a packet of sheets ready to go for if a student forgets their instrument or can't play along for some reason. Ramadan starts tonight, so for many students they might not be allowed to participate in music activities or they might not have the energy. If you're a supply teacher (substitute) teacher, it's also a good idea to have your own stash of sheets you can hand out in emergencies. Some schools are really strict on what students can do as time fillers--no word searches or colouring sheets for examples. 

I know a lot of teachers love handing out word searches. I LOVED word searches as a kid! I was so methodical, going up and down each column, making strategies like "look for double letters". In the end though, is there any authentic learning? Students take a word from a list of words, and look intently at a square full of letters, trying to find the letters in the word. The words might all be related, but students don't have to understand any of the words to do the search. 

Colour by Code sheets are also popular. Often used in math, students colour in a section of a picture based on an equation's answer, or sometimes by naming a note pitch or value. These can offer a bit more learning as students usually have to answer a question. However, for the upper grades, it's hard to get questions with integrity that have answers that lend themselves to this type of activity. Often, as well, there is a limited number of questions due to colour selections. 

Growing up, I wasn't a big fan of crosswords. They made me think!! Often the questions were so random, with nothing to connect them.  I didn't like writing in pencil, I didn't like making mistakes in pen. 

However, as a teacher, I've since changed my mind. A thematic crossword can be a great way for students to be introduced to new material, review material, or, even be assessed on material! A 20 question crossword is do-able within a 30 minute class, even with questions that require some thinking. 

The use of a word bank further ups a crossword's value. A version with a word bank is great for introducing a topic. Often students might remember the word once they see it. A word bank helps with spelling issues. Most students can benefit from having the word bank in one way or another (Universal Design!). 

Crosswords can also be diagnostic. Did you just start in a new job and have no idea what students know? Give them a crossword instead of a quiz.

Imagine being a student...would you rather have a 20 question quiz or a 20 question crossword that counts as a quiz? 

I've just finished creating 7 crosswords for the 6 elements of music we study in Ontario (the 7th puzzle is on the elements in general). Most of them are suited for grades 7 and 8 (for example, they mention the Blues progression, and harmony terms like polyphony).  If you've had a robust music program, younger students might also be successful, especially if you work as a class on unfamiliar terms. 

The crosswords are available individually. Each one contains two versions of the crossword (with, and without word bank), and answer sheets for each version. The crossword for Dynamics also includes a bonus matching worksheet!

For even greater value, they've also been bundled up! All 14 crosswords and answer sheets together!

I hope you enjoy these high quality resources designed for upper elementary/middle school. I make sure all my resources are high quality with integrity. The pages are specifically designed to not lose material when put in a Duo-Tang or binder. They have a minimalist but not plain design and will compliment your other teaching materials. Click on the picture, or HERE.

As always, Stay Musical!