Teacher presents standard music terminology for each element of expression. As a class, students classify their descriptions into the traditional terms. These sounds could be measured through the use of an oscilloscope, computer, or ADSR synthesizer. Students create and perform compositions to represent particular elements of expression, and describe the intent and effect of their selections. Create and perform variations of a known melody by altering the elements of expression.
Students explore harmony through studying triads and using the degrees of the scale.
Students then write and perform examples of triads. Invite local community musicians and private teachers to make guest appearances in the class to demonstrate a range of the elements of expression. Students practise maintaining independent parts through the performance of a round, first in unison, then in parts with various groupings. Select or invent a notation system for the soundscape and create a score. Ask them to decide what mood they would like to create, to make instrumental or vocal choices based on those ideas, and to chart the flow of their compositions on paper.