At the end of the third grade rhythm unit, we learn that beats are usually grouped in 3’s or 4’s. We sing songs in both 3 and 4, listen and find the strong beats, and “ta” rhythms in both meters.

It can be difficult teaching students how to hear the difference between meter in 3 and meter in 4. I have found it to be easier for students to hear the difference between 3 and 4 than between 2 and 3 (or duple and triple).

Assessment 1

For the bottom part of this assessment, it helps to give the students a list of songs they have learned in class to choose from. We discuss these and figure out their meter on days before the assessment.

Assessment 2

See also

• Songs in 3
• Rhythm Visuals in 3/4
• Songs with dotted half notes
• Meter / Time Signature resources

Extras for Plus Members

• Meter Listening Assessments (PDF)