Build a Burger Composition Set

I've often seen cute burger templates for teachers to help students learn to organize their writing.  I always thought it was such a great idea.  Then it hit me, this could help students learn basic form for composition as well.

After the light bulb went off, I found some great clip art from Teaching in the Tongas, and got to work.  This set includes step by step guidance to help students compose using the following forms: ABA, ABACA, ABCBA in 3/4 meter or 4/4 meter. Choose the form and meter you want to focus on with your kids.  It provides flexibility and is also something that can be used across different grades with varying levels of difficulty. 

Though it is only a short composition, it helps students understand how form works.  It also will help students compose without taking an entire marking period to finish a project.

There are three levels of composition templates to choose from. Use as much or as little as will work for you.  I may do a simple ABA rhythm composition with my 2nd graders, without going to the melodic step.

1. Rhythm composition: Directions are given for writing a "hamburger" composition in the selected form, using only rhythm. You can specify the rhythms you allow your students to use. (3/4 meter and 4/4 meter templates are included for each form).

2. Melodic composition: Directions are given to transfer rhythms from the rhythm templates to melodies using the rhythms (in C pentatonic). (3/4 and 4/4 meter templates are included for each form.)

3. Final Melodic/Rhythmic Templates: After the first two steps are done, students can create a final, polished composition on the staff.

After completing their project, students can perform it on xylophones (if melody added) or on rhythm instruments (if rhythm is used in isolation).
Worksheets are provided in color as well as in black and white.

Hope this idea helps you to help your kids take baby steps in composition world!  Check it out at my TPT store!