I N S T R U M E N T A L M U S I C G R A D I N G
Developing musical skills is a never-ending process. Grades merely represent a “snapshot” of where we are at any given time in the process.
Each grading period your student will be receiving grades in three areas:
- Academic Performance
- Work/Study Habits
- Social/Behavioral Skills
1. The “Academic Performance” grade in 7th and 8th grade instrumental music classes will be a letter grade and will be based on progress of the mastery of certain skills. A skill is considered “mastered” when the skill can be performed consistently, not only today, but also consistently in the future. These skills will be assessed in a variety of ways including:
- Playing tests – over technical materials (scales, arpeggios and 3rds)
- Written tests – over terms and theory materials
Summative grades in band will be a record of the mastery of such skills. If a student has not mastered a skill by the end of one grading period, there’s nothing saying that it won’t be mastered in the next grading period.
A formative grade for participation will be assessed each week. Everyone starts each week with 100 pts. If expectations aren’t met, points are deducted. If a student forgets their instrument (25 pts), music (25 pts), tardy (20 pts), pencil at music stand (10 pts), enter room chewing gum/food (10 pts).
About Practice:
There is a very high correlation between practice and progress; THERE IS NO PROGRESS WITHOUT PRACTICE!
2. Outside class practice/preparation will now be reflected under the “Work/Study Habits” portion of the grade report. Students striving for a grade of a “Com” (Commendable) in this area must accumulate 210 minutes or more of practice in a three-week grading period. This must be recorded on a practice sheet, signed by a parent and turned in. (unsigned practice sheets will not be accepted)
Students are expected to get into a regular practice routine and are highly encouraged to take their instrument home to practice during the week as well as each weekend.
3. Effort and Behavior in class will now be reflected in the “Social/Behavioral Skills” section of the grade report. Students striving for a grade of a “Com” (Commendable) in this area are expected to demonstrate maximum effort at all times.