Did you know that when he was a child, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart fainted whenever he heard a brass instrument? Did you know that Johann Sebastian Bach fathered twenty children? The interesting and intriguing world of classical music and its most famous composers comes alive in this highly motivating unit. Part I - Core Lessons focuses on five famous composers including Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin and Tchaikovsky in a structured, information-based section. Each lesson has a detailed biography, related activities and accompanying student notes in Part II. Part III - Optional Lessons adds flexibility to the unit with possible homework or enrichment activities. This unit is sure to please and a must in any middle years music class.


PART I - CORE TEACHING LESSONS

Introdoction -Classical Conundrum
Bach (Baroqoe Period) - Dou't Fix It IfItAin't Baroque
Mozart (Classical Period) - Amadeus
Beethoven (Classical Period) - Imagery Activity
Chopin (Romantic Period) - Concert Poster
TchaikovskThey (Romantic Period) - Classical Mystery
Musical Forms -Musical Forms Worksheet
Musical Terms -Classical Cartooning
Review - Review Crossword
Exam
PART II - STUDENT NOTESFOR OVERHEAD

Students write down notes from overhead transparencies. These notes provide the information base for the unit and give students material from which to study.

PART III - OPTIONAL LESSONS

This collection of activities is excellent for homework or enrichment.

Classical Music Forms Wordsearch
Classical Music II Wordsearch
Composer Riddles
Biography of Modern Composer
Classical Class
Other Famous Composers
Opera Or Ballet Field Trip
PBS Video Biography
Hooked On Classics
Thumbs Up Or Thumbs Down
MUSIC FOR THE UNIT

It is best to try to play classical music every day during this unit. The music can play while all of the students enter the classroom in the morning, or during independent project time. Try to expose students to as many different composers and styles as possible.