Math Jingles

This project introduces math concepts using music and rhyme.

Using GarageBand, students compose music for what would
otherwise be an abstract concept in their minds.

Author: Jesse Villalobos, Computer teacher

Grade level: K-4
Curriculum areas: Math, Music

Project Overview
Students are given a copy of a math jingle, such as one based on counting by tens.
Working in small groups, students use GarageBand to create a melody using the lyrics
of the jingle, including a drumbeat, sound effects, and voice. Students memorize their
jingle and then present their creation to the class.

Project Steps
1 Present students with an overview of GarageBand using a projector or other
presentation device.

2 Have students visit the Harcourt School Publishers website (see Tools and Resources)
and hear the jingle provided by the publisher that you selected earlier. Give them each
a printed copy of the jingle.
Note: You can use a different jingle to illustrate a particular math concept that you are
studying in class.

3 Working in groups of three, have students use GarageBand to set the jingle to music.
They should include a drum track, a vocal track, and percussion. They can also be
encouraged to add an instrument track using a MIDI keyboard for melody or effects,
if one is available. First, students should find a drum style that they like. Have them
try a variety of styles and beats until they arrive at a consensus. Have students lay the
drumbeat they selected, then add the vocal track and other percussion.

4 Have students export their completed creations to iTunes and share them with the
whole class. You can also burn a CD with all of the student songs and share it with
other classes.

Outcomes
After completing this project, students will be able to:
Understand the math concept presented in their jingle
Put lyrics to music
Work cooperatively in a group to compose music

2004 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved. For classroom use only.
Math Jingles 2

Technology Skills
After completing this project, students will be able to:
Use GarageBand to create a song
Use a MIDI keyboard as an input device (optional)
Export their creation to iTunes

Assessment Suggestions
A rubric can be used to assess this project. Students can be graded on the final
product and their cooperative work.

Preparation and Duration

Before you begin the project, select a jingle for the students to use.
This lesson will take three days to complete.

Tools and Resources

Internet
http://www.harcourtschool.com/jingles/jingles_all/1ten_tens.html
Harcourt School Publishers Math Jingles
http://www.apple.com/support/garageband/
GarageBand resources from Apple
http://www.apple.com/education/music
Apple digital music website

Tools
Macintosh computers, projector or other presentation device, MIDI keyboard (optional),
Internet connection, GarageBand, iTunes

Facilitation Tips
Students work in groups and can rotate through centers for this project. This
provides you with an opportunity to work with students learning this new
application while others are working using self-directed centers.
This is a new concept to most students and teachers. Simplicity is the key to success
in this activity. Students can use the loops in GarageBand the first time they do this
activity and can then add the use of a MIDI keyboard once they are comfortable with
using the loops. Students will be using drums, rhythm, and voice to complete this
activity.

2004 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved. For classroom use only.