Summer SAVY, Session 4 Day 1, “Math & Music” (7th-8th)
Today, we met for the first time and talked a bit about how math and music connect and what exactly we’d be learning and talking about this week. Although students arrived a bit sleepy, they very quickly warmed up with the help of some pop tunes! We then reviewed class rules and drafted class norms that emphasize sharing, kindness, equal participation, and having fun – a perfect foundation for a positive learning environment. Our ultimate goal is for everyone to feel safe, valued, and respected.
To kick things off, each student introduced themselves with a song that they felt embodied who they are. This musical icebreaker allowed students to discuss the importance of the song to their lives and learn about connections they have with their classmates. We had songs across all genres, such as Livin’ on a Prayer, Moonlight Sonata, and even the Kahoot Lobby Theme Song! Some students were initially shy to claim their song but opened up after an “interview” about their favorite things.
Our week of math started with a probability lesson. Students dove into calculating the probability of single events as well as independent and dependent sequential events. We created a playlist of our favorite songs. We then tied probability concepts into music by asking, “What’s the probability your song will play next?” and “What’s the probability that the first two songs played are mine and my neighbor’s?” Many laughed and cheered when their songs came up in the playlist, and this real-world connection made the math feel relevant and exciting. We even calculated the probability that the exact sequence of songs would occur, which is about 4.1103176e-19, or 1 over 20 factorial!
Finally, we launched a discussion about what qualifies as music and instruments. This discussion was inspired by John Cage’s famous piece 4’33”, which challenges traditional ideas of music. Students were intrigued and curious. Some were surprised that silence could be considered music, sparking thoughtful questions and lively debate. I would encourage you to challenge their definition of music at the dinner table tonight and ask them to perform the piece for you!
We were derailed a bit today by the storms, but this meant having some extra time in ORA to bond with each other and learn about our peers! I think some really solid friendships have already formed because of the rain! Overall, it was a day filled with curiosity, collaboration, and creativity, showing how math and music can come together in exciting ways to inspire learners. We can’t wait for tomorrow’s adventures!
PSA – Your students are welcome to bring in their instruments for the remainder of the week. If you do not feel comfortable with this, no worries! They will not lose ANY experience or opportunities by not having an instrument with them (or not playing an instrument). Again, students are not required to play an instrument at all or bring an instrument if they do play and have one, but we wanted to offer the opportunity! Their instruments will be their responsibility while on campus, but will be secured behind a closed, locked door if we are out of the room.
Here are some questions you can reflect on and discuss at home to continue exploring today’s topics:
- Where is music found in math (and math found in music)? Is some music inherently more mathematical than other music?
- What do I consider “music?” What do I consider an “instrument?” What is my definition of both? Can I challenge my definition?
Also, below is a little sample of some of the tunes we listened to:
- Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
- Here Comes The Sun – The Beatles
- Can’t Stop The Feeling – Justin Timberlake
- Mystical Magical – Benson Boone
- Unwritten – Natasha Bedingfield
- Boom Clap – Charli xcx
- Walking On Sunshine – Katrina & The Waves
- Dancing Queen – ABBA
- Feelin’ Good – Michael Buble
- Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra
- Clair de Lune – Debussy
- Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf
- Believer – Imagine Dragons
- Free Bird – Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Fantasie-impromptu in C-sharp Minor, Op.66 No.4 – Chopin
- Nocturne Op. 9 No.2 – Chopin
- Thriller – Michael Jackson
- Moonlight Sonata – Beethoven
See you tomorrow!
Ms. Kendall