Lesson 1: EXPANDING CHORDS

How does learning more chords expand musical possibilities?
What strategies help musicians transition smoothly between chords?
How do chord relationships support songs?

Chord, transition, progression, finger placement, open chord, barre chord

MU:Pr4.2.E.Ia
MU:Pr5.1.E.Ia

Students apply visual information, identify patterns, and explain procedures clearly.

Students expand chord vocabulary through new chord shapes and transitions.
DOK 1: Students identify new chord diagrams and finger placements.
DOK 2: Students perform new chord shapes accurately.
DOK 3: Students analyze how chord relationships support musical progressions.
DOK 4: Students independently apply smooth transitions within extended chord progressions.

Expanded chord vocabulary allows musicians to perform a greater variety of contemporary songs and styles.

Students may think memorizing shapes is more important than understanding transitions and rhythm.

Modified tempo practice, visual chord diagrams, guided repetition, and peer support

DOK 1: Students identify chord diagrams and finger positions for Am, E, F, and Dm chords.
DOK 2: Students perform new chord transitions accurately.
DOK 3: Students explain how chord relationships function within progressions.
DOK 4: Students independently perform extended chord progressions with smooth transitions.