** I was absent on this day so do not have any pictures**

Art

Room 13 is an interesting project where an empty classroom was transformed into a place where pupils can participate in an arts education. The children aren’t under any direction when in the room so are free to explore creatively and create their own ideas.

The project is very useful in school as it encourages better behaviour and work incentive due to the reward being that a child can go to room 13. All classwork must be finished to be allowed to go.

Room 13 teaches the children responsibility as they are in charge of their own learning in the room- learning responsibility is a key skill for adulthood and will factor a better working relationship between teachers and children (Penny et al., 2009).

Music

Today we looked at ways to play music without needing the ability to read sheet music which many children and teachers won’t have. The method involves using figure notes or symbols which represent different notes.

Being able to provide children with opportunities to play music without being necessarily musical is wonderful as it will be a confidence builder for them that they are able to do it. Bloomfield (2002) discussed the importance of children being able to play instruments, sing and perform but while building confidence. Introducing music in this way, can prevent frustration for children as they learn. Being able to play a piece quickly will allow for a feeling of accomplishment. They can also use these figure notes to create their own pieces of music allowing for a further feeling of accomplishment that they are composing something of their own.

References 

Bloomfields, A. and Childs, J. (2002). Teaching Integrated Arts in the Primary School. London: David Fulton Publishers.

Penny, S., Ford, R., Price, L. and Young, S. (2002) Teaching Arts in the Primary School. Exeter: Learning Matters Ltd.