Using the Purposeful Pathways model as our inspiration, Roger Sams shares lessons based on folk songs and composed pieces that lead into improvisation and composition. Beginning with grade 1, the course explores improvising four-beat rhythms and composing with icons. Model lessons will be presented for each grade through grade 5 that incrementally develop student skills and understandings resulting in skilled improvisers and composers at the end of the elementary school years. Participants will create improvisation and composition structures to be shared with each other. Beginning instrumental teachers who are interested in incorporating improvisation and composition in beginning instrumental instruction will also benefit from this course.