We use a beginner band method book starting day one of playing. We use "Sound Innovations" for this as it is different than their beginner book (EE2000). At first, we do several lines a day, but as we get to half way through level 2, we switch to doing two a day, and when we reach level 3 we do one line a day. We don't do all of the lines, and we usually finish the book by the end of the first semester.

We also read lots of full band beginner level music starting the first week of September. We sightread it one day then work on it the rest of the week (it helps to build up a repertoire for when the principal says, "Hey, we need you to play for this event next week"). We gradually progress in difficultly to match the "SI" book. We don't do any old UIL SR music until January. We either do the odd or even release years so the kids will not have seen that piece before (this is an odd year). We read about three level 1, three level 2, four level 3, and two level 4 (we are a 3C). By the time we get to UIL, they have read a TON of new material and are pretty comfortable with the process.

We also do weird stuff with rhythm charts. We will have different sections play different rhythms (some that don't really line up) and give them different concert pitches to play, will even have them change notes every so often. It keeps them on their toes and makes them focus on their part and not relying on another section. It helps to build confidence.