Musical Compositions For Theory Training

I enjoy coming up with fun ways to learn theory.  True enough, there are excellent theory books out there, however, I don't want to simply rely on books alone.  To bring life to theory studies, I love playing various computer and board games with my students.  Another method I use to help students have a deep understanding of theory is to have them write a composition based upon the lessons learned.  For example, one of my wonderful adult students, G.G., was reviewing notes C-G in the treble staff, and introduced to the C-chord in the bass clef.  For her theory assignment, she had to create a song with the following notes and chord.

G.G. was retiring and getting ready to move to the city that her granddaughter is living to be able to spend more time with her.  She decided to compose a song dedicated to her granddaughter about the fun they would have
upon her retirement.  She began by writing the composition on manuscript, then after she was happy with what she had written.....we used an online notation site called Noteflight to create the sheet music.  GG and her granddaughter loves baking cupcakes together, so I looked for graphics online to add to her piece to reflect that.  Once completed, GG was extremely thrilled!!! (Photo on right of her practicing it.)

How I will deeply miss this darling student.  She always brought sunshine to her lessons by having the biggest, beaming smile and positive disposition.  She lovingly dropped by and gave me a big hug before leaving.  I will be sure to keep in touch with her to encourage her throughout the continuation of her studies.