Microbeat/Macrobeat signs with snowflakes

Students work on keeping Macrobeat and Microbeat (for example, half notes and quarter notes in 4/4, respectively) as they listen to new songs.  These signs can be printed out, laminated, and taped back to back; one side shows students to move to the Macrobeat, and the other side shows students to move to the Microbeat.

Students love being the "beat switcher"! First, students listen to a song and as a large group and create a movement for the Macrobeat. (For example, standing and moving to the beat by lifting and lowering the back of their heels.)  They also create a movement for the Microbeat (for example, tapping the shoulders) and move to the song to Microbeats.

Then, I hold up the sign. When they see the Microbeat side, they do their Microbeat movement only; and vice versa.  At first I switch which side of the sign they see only at phrase or verse points, then I make it tricky and switch every few beats!

Then individual students get to be the beat switchers! They LOVE trying to trick their classmates!


Download the duple meter sign for free here.
Download the triple meter sign for free here.

The files above are in Microsoft Word format, so you can edit them for other seasons and meters as you like!


Images of the signs (again, download the editable signs at the links above!):

Duple meter sign front and back:

Triple meter front and back: