Creating Simple Melodies

Unit: Melody Makers – Term 1

Lesson 3 of 6

Duration: 45 minutes

Year Level: Year 5

Class Size: 30 students

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WALT (We Are Learning To):

• Compose simple melodies using the pentatonic scale.
• Collaborate effectively in pairs to create and perform short melodic phrases.
• Apply understanding of pitch and rhythm to convey musical ideas.

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NSW Curriculum Links:

Content Descriptions (ACAMUM087):

• Compose and arrange music to convey an idea, mood or feeling using the elements of music and compositional devices (focus on pitch and rhythm within pentatonic melodies).
• Sing and play tuned and untuned instruments to perform music, individually and in groups, with expression.
• Use notation to record compositions (simple melodic notation).

Achievement Standard (Years 5 and 6):

• Students demonstrate listening and aural skills when composing and performing.
• They use elements of music and compositional devices to compose music that communicates ideas.
• They perform music in formal and informal settings.

Reference: Music Achievement Standard - Years 5 and 6

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Success Criteria:

• I can create a short melody using notes from the pentatonic scale.
• I can work cooperatively with a partner to compose and rehearse our melody.
• I can perform my melody clearly for the class, demonstrating awareness of pitch and rhythm.
• I can use simple notation or graphic symbols to show my melody.

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Resources:

• Keyboard or xylophone with pentatonic scale marked (C, D, E, G, A) or equivalent classroom instruments.
• Whiteboard or paper with pentatonic scale notes displayed visually.
• Manuscript paper or simple notation worksheets.
• Audio examples of simple pentatonic melodies (optional).
• Recording device or tablet for students to record performances (optional).

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Lesson Sequence:

1. Introduction / Warm-Up (5 minutes)

• Briefly recap the pentatonic scale: explain it uses five notes and sounds pleasant.
• Sing a simple pentatonic melody together led by teacher (e.g., C-D-E-G-A descending).
• Discuss how melodies use rhythms and different pitches to tell a story or express feelings.
• WALT and success criteria shared with the class verbally and displayed.

2. Demonstration (7 minutes)

• Teacher models composing a short melody on the pentatonic scale on classroom instrument.
• Use simple rhythm values (crotchets/quavers) and ensure the pitch changes are clearly heard.
• Record the example on whiteboard with basic notation or graphic symbols (e.g., note names/dots).
• Highlight rhythm patterns and note choices.

3. Pair Activity: Compose Melodies (20 minutes)

• Students work in pairs to create their own short melody (4–8 bars) using the pentatonic scale and simple rhythms.
• Encourage experimentation with pitch patterns and rhythmic variation.
• Teacher circulates, offering support and challenging students to vary their rhythms or use repetition for effect.
• Students write their melody down using notation or graphic symbols.
• Optionally, students may prepare to perform or record their melodies for sharing.

4. Sharing and Performing (10 minutes)

• Each pair presents their melody for the class.
• Encourage classmates to listen carefully to pitch accuracy and rhythmic patterns.
• Highlight different creative choices and encourage positive feedback within pairs and whole class.
• Optionally, record performances for students' reflection or to share later with families.

5. Conclusion and Reflection (3 minutes)

• Recap what was learned about creating simple melodies using the pentatonic scale.
• Invite students to reflect on what worked well and what they found challenging.
• Reinforce positive collaboration and creativity.
• Prepare students for next lesson’s focus (building on composition skills).

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Differentiation Strategies:

Learner Need	Strategy
EAL/D students	Use visual aids including colour-coded notes, rhythmic clapping exercises, and paired practice.
Students with additional needs	Provide hand-over-hand guidance with instruments; use simplified notation or graphic symbols; allow verbal explanations of melody instead of notation.
Advanced learners	Challenge to compose longer melodies or introduce improvisation elements; encourage use of dynamic changes or rests.

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Extension Activities for Advanced Learners:

• Compose a longer melody with varied rhythmic patterns and rests using the pentatonic scale.
• Create an accompaniment pattern to support the melody using simple chords or drone notes.
• Experiment with dynamics and articulation (e.g., staccato, legato) in their melody performance.
• Use a digital music app to notate and playback their compositions for further analysis.

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This lesson plan integrates explicit opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and development of core music skills (pitch, rhythm, notation) according to the NSW Curriculum for Year 5 Music. The focus on pentatonic scales provides an accessible entry point for melody creation, nurturing musical understanding and engagement in a structured yet imaginative environment.
Teachers can adapt resourcing and task complexity according to class needs while maintaining fidelity to curriculum standards.

If requested, I can generate accompanying worksheets, notation templates, or suggested audio examples tailored for classroom use.