This resource is a complete Beginners Guide to Music Technology Scheme of Work suitable for KS3. Designed to develop students’ understanding of electronic dance music, digital music production, sequencing and composition through the use of BandLab for Education.

The resource includes:

• 6 fully resourced lessons with editable PowerPoints featuring step-by-step BandLab guidance and screenshots.

• A teacher guidance booklet explaining how to set up a free BandLab for Education account and classroom for students.

• A detailed unit plan with learning objectives and lesson guidance.

• A practical music technology composition assessment with KS3 success criteria.

  Students begin by exploring the features of electronic dance music before setting up their BandLab for Education accounts and learning the basics of the software.

Using BandLab, students create an EDM track by layering samples, exploring drums, bass, chords, melody and vocals, while developing sequencing skills such as cutting, looping, splitting, merging, copying and pasting samples to create their own structure and texture. Students then refine their compositions by adding new musical ideas, with extension activities exploring automation and audio effects.

The unit concludes with a self-reflection task and a presentation of completed tracks, where students evaluate each other’s work.

You’ll need:

• A projector & speakers.

• Computers or laptops with internet access.

• Headphones.

  The scheme includes everything needed to teach the unit from start to finish, including editable lesson presentations, printable worksheets, practical BandLab activities, and assessment materials. Designed to minimise preparation time, the lessons are engaging, accessible and suitable for a wide range of abilities.

BandLab for Education is used throughout the unit. The software is free to use, and a teacher setup guide is included to help you get started with your classes. If your school has access to other music production softwares, this unit can also be easily adapted to other softwares that function in the same way as Bandlab such as garageband.

Perfect for KS3 Music, this unit covers music technology, electronic dance music, MIDI sequencing, digital music production, composition, arranging, song structure, listening, appraising and creative music-making.

If you find this resource useful, I’d really appreciate you leaving a review. Your feedback helps support other teachers and shapes future resources.

For more advanced music technology skills see my “Video Game Music” and “Rap Music” Schemes of Work.