Helps with Schoolwork

Music study is known to enhance math/science skills. My approach is especially helpful in organizing thought, and applicable to any academic subject. We break tasks into sub-components, and then take each component step-by-step. The approach has much in common with current strategies for autism in general, particularly Applied Behavioral Analysis.

It is desireable that all areas of study, even basic life tasks, be approached with a unified strategy. The techniques I have used in teaching math to my fourth-grade daughter (Asperger Syndrome) relate directly to those I use with autistic piano students.

Below are a few basic guidelines that underlie the teaching approach:

  • Elements of a task separated and approached one by one. EXAMPLE:
  • Identify all the C's; then all the D's
  • Say the letter names; then sing with letter names
  • Play the right hand
  • Play the song and say "chord here" without actually playing them
  • Simple, memorable Terminology. i.e.:
  • For a long note, student says "hold" in an emphatic, sustained voice
  • For a rest, student says "stop" in an authoritative, "police officer" voice
  • Spread it out
  • Less on a page
  • More space between notes, staff lines, etc.
  • Make it active
  • Have student write in notes, chords, etc. But then REWRITE it NEATLY
  • Practice sub-skills: Worksheets, flash cards; MAKE IT FUN!

    • Try these at home and at school
  • For Music Teachers

    • CURRICULUM DETAILS & SAMPLES

    ORDERING     Home

    Email: PianoByEar@yahoo.com