Note Value Game

When students have the concept of note value mastered, I then give them problems using note values. For example, "Quarter note plus quarter note equals how many beats?" They think, "Quarter equals 1, so 1+1=2." I give them several practice problems before the game.

REVIEW GAME: Here's the fun part! The game goes like this:

• Have the children stand back to back. If there is an uneven number, one group of three will work.
• Call out a problem using the names of notes. I use addition, subtraction, and even multiplication for the older kids!
• After you call out the problem, say "Go."
• The first student to turn around, face their partner, and tell the correct answer wins this round.
• A tie results in both being out. Arguing results in both being out. If the students turn around before you say "Go," they are out. If they say the wrong answer, they are out. If both say the wrong answer, they are both out.
• If a student is out, they must sit. Have the students who get out be judges for the groups still playing. (It is impossible to hear all the groups.)
• The ones who are still standing now find a new partner with whom to get back to back.
• Call out another problem. Say "Go." Repeat until there is only one student standing.

I like to give Mardi Gras beads to the winner. (You can give stickers or whatever reward your students like best.)