You Want Me to Teach What?: Book

This book cuts through the panic that hits when a capable specialist suddenly finds themselves assigned to general music. Rather than prescriptive formulas, Schay and Tolon offer honest problem-solving grounded in actual classroom experience, including lesson plans ready to adapt for every grade level from Pre-K through sixth grade. The authors write with both humor and genuine respect for the difficulty of the transition, making this feel like advice from colleagues who have already solved your biggest problems.

Secondary instrumental or choral specialists who have been reassigned to general music classrooms at the elementary level. This book is equally valuable for new general music teachers seeking structure and for experienced specialists who need practical frameworks for managing a classroom full of students with no prior music training.

Use this as your first resource during the summer before your general music assignment begins. Work through the chapters on classroom management and curriculum design before school starts, and reference the grade-level lesson plans throughout the year as you build your scope and sequence. Return to specific chapters whenever you encounter a particular challenge—attitude shifts, school culture questions, or assessment dilemmas.