MUSIC AT GOULBOURN MIDDLE SCHOOL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
The music program at Goulbourn consists of both theory and practical playing. In a group context, students will develop basic playing skills and techniques on their instrument of focus. Students will develop a strong grasp of music notation basics, participate in research projects, take part in listening activities and perform presentations. They will also demonstrate their ability to read and interpret music from the staff and produce the desired pitch and tone of their instrument. Correct breathing, posture and articulation in vocal and instrumental groups will be emphasized. Students will also be encouraged to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of a variety of different musical forms that are found in both traditional and contemporary works. Music of other cultures will also be discussed. Lastly, students will be evaluated on homework, tests, projects covering music theory and history. Upon the completion of the new program, students will have learned how to develop a musical repertoire while gaining a thorough understanding of music.
EXPECTATIONS
- Demonstrate an understanding of the basic elements of music (Duration, pitch, dynamics, timbre, harmony, form)
- Sing and play instruments with expression and proper technique (method book selections etc..)
- Read, write and perform from musical notation accurately and fluently (original compositions)
- Identify and perform music of a variety of cultures and historical periods.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
- Read music appropriate for the grade showing their understanding
- Demonstrate the ability to produce the same pitch as others, vocally or instrumentally
- Play or sing with appropriate articulation and phrasing
ASSESSMENT EXAMPLES
- Using the C major scale, compose, an eight bar melody
- Prepare a presentation of your favourite performance artist
- Compare and contrast instrumentation of a traditional and contemporary piece of music
THINGS I ASSESS DURING A PLAYING TEST:
Instrument Hold
Note recognition
Embouchure
Posture
Breathing
Fingering position/ Mallet and stick grip
Effort
Pitch
Tone
LEVELS OF ACHIEVEMENT
LEVEL 4- Exceeding the expectations
LEVEL 3- Meeting the expectations
LEVEL 2- Working towards meeting expectations
LEVEL 1- Meeting a few of the expectation (remediation required)
SAMPLE PLAYING TEST RUBRIC