( (5th/6th)COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SYLLABUS
BEGINNING STRINGS/ORCHESTRA
2023 - 2024
KITTREDGE MAGNET SCHOOL
MS. STACEY THOMPSON, INSTRUCTOR
COURSE DESCRIPTION: Orchestra is a Literature/Performance course in which students are expected to continuously develop performance styles and techniques. Students will also be encouraged to participate in extra-curricular music activities (e.g. Solo & Ensemble, Festival, All-State auditions and summer music camps). Students will be expected and required to practice at home. PRACTICE RECORDS ARE DUE 2 Weeks...
Georgia Music Performance National Standards
GRADE: 4 - 5 MUSIC – BEGINNING ORCHESTRA
Skills and Techniques/Performance
MESBO.1 – Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate the ability to match pitch and adjust intonation.
b. Demonstrate an understanding of phrasing through singing simple melodies.
c. Discuss the relationship between singing and quality tone production on a string instrument.
MESBO.2 – Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate correct left hand position and finger placement, right hand position (bow hold), posture, instrument position, and bow placement.
b. Produce a characteristic sound using legato, staccato, slurs, detached slur, accent, and pizzicato.
c. Utilize correct finger patterns in performing scales and repertoire in the keys of D, G, and C.
d. Demonstrate awareness of individual and group roles within the ensemble relating to balance, blend, dynamics, phrasing, and tempo.
MESBO.3 – Reading and notating music
a. Identify notes in the staff and on ledger lines of respective clef.
b. Read and notate notes within the following key signatures: D, G, and C.
c. Read and notate rhythms containing whole notes, half notes, quarter notes, eighth notes, dotted half notes and their corresponding rests in the time signatures of 4/4, 3/4, and 2/4.
d. Recognize basic symbols for dynamics, tempo, articulation, and expression as used in corresponding literature.
B. Creation
MESBO.4 – Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments
a. Play by ear simple melodies and provide rhythmic and melodic variations
based on those melodies.
b. Improvise simple harmonic accompaniments in the key of D.
MESBO.5 – Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines
a. Create original rhythm patterns in 4/4 time.
b. Compose simple melodies for respective instrument in the keys of D and G.
C. Critical Analysis/Investigate
MESBO.6 – Listening to, analyzing, and describing music
a. Discuss the basic principles of meter, rhythm, tonality, and
instrumentation in selected aural examples.
b. Identify melodic and harmonic material in given aural examples.
MESBO.7 – Evaluating music and music performances
a. Distinguish between correct and incorrect melodic and harmonic
intonation and demonstrate ability to adjust accordingly.
b. Evaluate the accuracy of rhythm and tempos for individual and ensemble
playing.
c. Judge the quality of performance in tone, intonation, balance, dynamics,
and rhythm.
D. Cultural and Historical Context
MESBO.8 – Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines
outside the arts
a. Explain how music contributes to a well rounded education.
b. Establish awareness that all subjects are related to music.
MESBO.9 – Understanding music in relation to history and culture
a. Identify and compare performance styles of music learned in class.
b. Discuss characteristics of music from various societies and cultures.
GRADE: 6 - 8 MUSIC – BEGINNING ORCHESTRA
A. Skills and Techniques/Performance
MMSBO.1 – Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate the ability to match pitch and adjust intonation.
b. Demonstrate an understanding of phrasing through singing simple
melodies.
c. Discuss the relationship between singing and quality tone production on a
string instrument.
MMSBO.2 – Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of
music
a. Demonstrate correct left hand position and finger placement, right hand
position (bow hold), posture, instrument position and bow placement.
b. Produce a characteristic sound using legato, staccato, slurs, detached slur,
accent, and pizzicato.
c. Utilize correct finger patterns in performing scales and repertoire in the
keys of D, G, and C.
d. Demonstrate awareness of individual and group roles within the ensemble
relating to balance, blend, dynamics, phrasing, and tempo.
MMSBO.3 – Reading and notating music
a. Identify notes in the staff and on ledger lines of respective clef.
b. Read and notate notes within the following key signatures: D, G, and C.
c. Read and notate rhythms containing whole notes, half notes, quarter notes,
eighth notes, dotted half notes and their corresponding rests in the time
signatures of 4/4, 3/4, and 2/4.
d. Recognize basic symbols for dynamics, tempo, articulation, and
expression as used in corresponding literature.
B. Creation
MMSBO.4 – Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments
a. Play by ear simple melodies and provide rhythmic and melodic variations
based on those melodies.
b. Improvise simple harmonic accompaniments in the key of D.
MMSBO.5 – Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines
a. Create original rhythm patterns in 4/4 time.
b. Compose simple melodies for respective instrument in the keys of D and G.
C. Critical Analysis/Investigate
MMSBO.6 – Listening to, analyzing, and describing music
a. Discuss the basic principles of meter, rhythm, tonality, and
instrumentation in selected aural examples.
b. Identify melodic and harmonic material in given aural examples.
MMSBO.7 – Evaluating music and music performances
a. Distinguish between correct and incorrect melodic and harmonic
intonation and demonstrate ability to adjust accordingly.
b. Evaluate the accuracy of rhythm and tempos for individual and ensemble
playing.
c. Judge the quality of performance in tone, intonation, balance, dynamics,
and rhythm.
D. Cultural and Historical Context
MMSBO.8 – Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines
outside the arts
a. Explain how music contributes to a well rounded education.
b. Establish awareness that all subjects are related to music.
MMSBO.9 – Understanding music in relation to history and culture
a. Identify and compare performance styles of music learned in class.
b. Discuss characteristics of music from various societies and cultures.
A. Skills and Techniques/Performance
GRADE: 6 - 8 MUSIC – INTERMEDIATE ORCHESTRA
A. Skills and Techniques/Performance
MMSIO.1 – Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate the ability to match pitch and adjust intonation in melodic
and harmonic settings.
b. Demonstrate an understanding of phrasing through singing simple
melodies.
c. Discuss the relationship between singing and quality tone production on a
string instrument.
MMSIO.2 – Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate correct left hand position and finger placement, right hand
position (bow hold) and bow placement, posture, instrument position and
bow placement, while increasing the level of technical difficulty.
b. Demonstrate vibrato readiness skills.
c. Produce a characteristic sound using legato, staccato, slurs, detached slur,
accent, spiccato, hooked bowing, and pizzicato.
d. Utilize correct finger patterns in performing scales and repertoire in the
major keys of D, G, C, A, F, and Bb and the minor keys of e, a, d, and b.
e. Demonstrate awareness of individual and group roles within the ensemble
relating to tone, tuning, balance, blend, dynamics, phrasing, and tempo.
MMSIO.3 – Reading and notating music
a. Identify notes in the staff and on ledger lines of respective clef.
b. Read and notate notes within the following key signatures: D, G, C, A, F,
and Bb and the minor keys of e, a, d, and b.
c. Read and notate rhythms containing whole notes, half notes, quarter notes,
eighth notes, dotted half notes, dotted quarter notes, dotted eighth notes,
sixteenth notes and their corresponding rests in the time signatures of 4/4, ¾, 2/4, 6/8, and alle breve.
d. Recognize and execute symbols for dynamics, tempo, articulation, and expression as used in corresponding literature.
B. Creation
MMSIO.4 – Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments
a. Play by ear simple melodies and provide rhythmic and melodic variations
based on those melodies.
b. Improvise simple melodies and harmonic accompaniments in the keys of D and G.
MMSIO.5 – Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines
a. Create original rhythm patterns in 4/4 time.
b. Compose simple melodies for respective instrument in the keys of D and G.
C. Critical Analysis/Investigate
MMSIO.6 – Listening to, analyzing, and describing music
a. Discuss the basic principles of meter, rhythm, tonality, and
instrumentation in selected aural examples.
b. Identify melodic and harmonic material and phrase endings in given aural
examples.
MMSIO.7 – Evaluating music and music performances
a. Distinguish between correct and incorrect melodic and harmonic
intonation and demonstrates ability to adjust accordingly.
b. Evaluate the accuracy of rhythm and tempos for individual and ensemble
playing.
c. Assess the quality of performance in tone, intonation, balance, dynamics,
articulation, precision, and rhythm.
D. Cultural and Historical Context
MMSIO.8 – Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines
outside the arts
a. Explain how music contributes to a well rounded education.
b. Establish awareness that all subjects are related to music.
MMSIO.9 – Understanding music in relation to history and culture
a. Identify and compare performance styles of music learned in class.
b. Discuss characteristics of music from various societies and cultures.
c. Compare, in several cultures of the world, functions music serves, roles of
musicians, and conditions under which music is typically performed.
Concert Attire
REQUIRED ATTIRE: FORMAL ATTIRE (For Performances)
Girls: Black Skirt (knee length), White
Blouse and Black Shoes (No Tennis Shoes)
All Boys & Girls (playing Cello/Bass): Black Dress Pants, White Shirt and
Black Dress Shoes (No Tennis Shoes)
Text and Materials: Pencil (EVERYDAY)
Rosin
Shoulder Rest/Wristband/Straws (Violin/Viola)
Rock Stop (Celli, Basses)
Folding Wire Stand
STUDENTS MUST PREPARED TO PLAY EVERYDAY.
School Year/Semester 2023-2024
Course Name
Beginning Orchestra (5th) Intermediate Orchestra (6th)
Course Code
53.0510001 53.0530001
School Name
Kittredge Magnet School
Teacher Name
S. Thompson
School Phone Number
Teacher Email
[email protected]
School Website
Teacher Website
kmsorch.weebly.com
Course Description
Curriculum Overview
The following academic concepts will be covered. THIS IS ONLY A GUIDE AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
Unit I – 1st 4 weeks
Review/Competency with On-line Tools; Learning Self-care & Tuning of your instrument (Upsizing if needed); Review Technique/Body Mapping
Unit II – Theory/Rhythmic Counting/Scales/Arpeggio/Finger Patterns/ Intonation
Unit III – Learning to Play with Metronome/Accompaniment Tracks/ Recording in your home studio/ submitting recordings
Unit IV – Solo playing/ Small Ensemble Playing/Concerts.
BOARD-APPROVED INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
Title
ISBN
Replacement Cost
Online book and/or resources
Online student access code (school specific)
GRADING SYSTEM: The DeKalb County School District believes that the most important assessment of student learning shall be conducted by the teachers as they observe and evaluate students in the context of ongoing classroom instruction. A variety of approaches, methodologies, and resources shall be used to deliver educational services and to maximize each student’s opportunity to succeed. Teachers shall evaluate student progress, report grades that represent the student’s academic achievement, and communicate official academic progress to students and parents in a timely manner through the electronic grading portal. See Board Policy IHA.
GRADING CATEGORIES
*GRADE PROTOCOL
Grade Weights:
45% Classwork: Guided, Independent or Group Practice - classwork, in-class project/mini projects
25% Assessment Tasks (Skills & Homework) - warm ups, homework, practice logs
30% Quizzes, test, & projects- quiz, tests, performance assessments, long term projects
For 4th & 5th: Music courses: P 70-100 F 0-69
A 90 – 100 ~P (pass)
B 80 – 89 ~F (fail)
C 71 – 79
D 70
F Below 70
Notes:
*English Learners (ELs) must not receive numerical or letter grades for the core content areas in elementary and middle school during their first year of language development. A grade of CS or CU must be assigned. This rule may be extended beyond the first year with approval from the EL Studies Program. English Learners must receive a grade for ESOL courses.
~Elementary schools will utilize P (pass) and F (fail) in Health/Physical Education, Music, World Languages, Visual Arts and Performing Arts.
DISTRICT EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS
STUDENT PROGRESS
Semester progress reports shall be issued four and a half, nine and thirteen and a half weeks into each semester. The progress of students shall be evaluated frequently and plans shall be generated to remediate deficiencies as they are discovered. Plans shall include appropriate interventions designed to meet the needs of the students. See Board Policy IH.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Students will not engage in an act of academic dishonesty including, but not limited to, cheating, providing false information, falsifying school records, forging signatures, or using an unauthorized computer user ID or password. See the Code of Student Conduct - Student Rights and Responsibilities and Character Development Handbook.
HOMEWORK
Homework assignments should be meaningful and should be an application or adaptation of a classroom experience. Homework is at all times an extension of the teaching/learning experience. It should be considered the possession of the student and should be collected, evaluated and returned to the students. See Board Policy IHB.
MAKE-UP WORK
DUE TO ABSENCES
When a student is absent because of a legal reason as defined by Georgia law or when the absence is apparently beyond the control of the student, the student shall be given an opportunity to earn grade(s) for those days absent. Make-up work must be completed within the designated time allotted. See Board Policy IHEA.
SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS
CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
Be On Time
Respect all Orchestra Members
Practice
Communicate with Teacher if special arrangements are needed.
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES
Essential Elements Book 1 (5th) Essential Elements Book 2 (6th)
Scales for Strings Book 1 by Samuel Applebaum (5th) Scales for Strings Book 2 by Samuel Applebaum (6th)
Instrument Ensemble
Wire Music Stand
EXTRA HELP
1-on-1 Virtual Tutorials (each student will be offered a time)
PARENTS AS PARTNERS
*** Homework/Practice Calendar Policy: Homework assignments are due on the 1st day of your Orchestra scheduled for class. All assignments are expected on the due date. Students will not receive full credit for late Practice Calendars/Homework.
Homework Policy:
There are very few acceptable reasons for late homework. If there is an emergency or other very serious issue prohibiting a child from completing his/her assignments, the parent should contact the child’s teachers to request an extension the day the work is assigned. Excuses given after the assignment is due will not be considered except in the case of serious emergencies which prohibit communication in a timely manner.
Late Work Policy Homework
1 day late -25%
2 days late -50%
3 or more days late or not submitted will be counted as a zero and will not be eligible for credit at any time on or after the 3rd day late Short-term & Long-term
Practice Calendars/Project Policy:
Projects 1 day late -11%
2 days late -21%
3 days late -31%
4 or more days late or not submitted will be counted as a zero and will not be eligible for credit at any time on or after the 4th day late. There are very few acceptable reasons for late homework. If there is an emergency or other very serious issue prohibiting a child from completing his/her assignments, the parent should contact the child’s teachers to request an extension the day the work is assigned. Excuses given after the assignment is due will not be considered except in the case of serious emergencies which prohibit communication in a timely manner and/or email from a parent about the issue (ex: power outage).
Orchestra members are expected to practice everyday (home). *** Scroll down for more details.... Class Objectives
STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND ALL PERFORMANCES
Beginning Instrumental Music (Recorder)
Course Description and Syllabus
Fall Semester 2023
Kittredge Magnet School
Ms. Stacey Thompson
Course Description: 4th Grade Instrumental Music provides a basic foundation of Music Theory, Technical Skills, and Ensemble participation. Students will learn to read notation while learning to play Recorders (in conjunction with General Music Class). The students will learn the history of String and Band Instruments through research and participation. Students will be expected and required to practice at home. Bi-weekly PRACTICE RECORDS ARE DUE SUNDAY. A PARENT SIGNATURE IS REQUIRED TO RECEIVE CREDIT.
Text and Materials:
(EVERYDAY) Pencil
Recorder
Recorder Book
Notebook
Name Card
GRADING CATEGORIES
*GRADE PROTOCOL
Formative and Diagnostic Assessments – 0%
Assessment Tasks (Skills & Homework) – 25%
Classwork (Guided, Independent, and Group Practice) – 45%
Quizzes, Tests, and Projects – 30%
A 90 – 100 ~P (pass)
B 80 – 89 ~F (fail)
C 71 – 79
D 70
F Below 70
****Recorder Students are expected to PRACTICE 15 minutes EVERYDAY****
KMS Orchestra Rules PMR: Positive Musical Results
1. No Talking/Set-up
2. Empty cases under chair
3. Shadow Bow during Sectionals
4. Do Not Talk during Instruction
5. Silent Exit
Positives
1. “Roar" Cards
2. Praise: Written/Oral
Consequences
1. Re-Teach Rule
2. Pink Slip sent home in Agenda
3. Call Parent(s) during school day
4. KMS Behavior Slip
5. Quality Time with Administrator
Severe Clause
Fighting, Vandalism, Overt Defiance,
Stopping Class from functioning result in: Immediate Office Referral
ORCHESTRA/STRING CLASS OBJECTIVES 2023-2024
Grade Level 4th Students will be able to….
Spring Semester (Only)
Required Practice Time 7 days per week 20 minutes each day.
Grade Level 5th Students will be able to…
Text: Essential Elements Book 1
Scales for Strings Book 1 by Samuel Applebaum
Required Practice time 7 days per week 20 minutes each day.
Grade Level 6th Students will be able to….
(Prerequisite: 1 year on
Instrument)
Required Practice time 7 days per week 30 minutes each day.
NOTE: Materials needed for class:
General Ensemble Objectives:
Rehearse as a Group
Apply learned techniques in Repertoire
Detect and Adjust Intonation when needed
Follow Conductor
Execute Phrasing, Dynamics, Tone Quality, & Style
Knowledge of Repertoire (History, Composer)
2023- 2024 KMS Orchestra Events
Celebrations (Test)
Playing Expectations
(Friday or last day of the school week)
Correct Playing Position (holding)
Left & Right hand, Posture
Correct Notes
Are you reading them correctly?
Intonation (Is it in tune)
½ and whole steps (finger patterns)
Tempo (Accuracy)
Is the tempo correct for the style of the piece?
Rhythmic Counting (Patterns)
Are you counting the rhythms correctly while playing?
BEGINNING STRINGS/ORCHESTRA
2023 - 2024
KITTREDGE MAGNET SCHOOL
MS. STACEY THOMPSON, INSTRUCTOR
COURSE DESCRIPTION: Orchestra is a Literature/Performance course in which students are expected to continuously develop performance styles and techniques. Students will also be encouraged to participate in extra-curricular music activities (e.g. Solo & Ensemble, Festival, All-State auditions and summer music camps). Students will be expected and required to practice at home. PRACTICE RECORDS ARE DUE 2 Weeks...
Georgia Music Performance National Standards
GRADE: 4 - 5 MUSIC – BEGINNING ORCHESTRA
Skills and Techniques/Performance
MESBO.1 – Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate the ability to match pitch and adjust intonation.
b. Demonstrate an understanding of phrasing through singing simple melodies.
c. Discuss the relationship between singing and quality tone production on a string instrument.
MESBO.2 – Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate correct left hand position and finger placement, right hand position (bow hold), posture, instrument position, and bow placement.
b. Produce a characteristic sound using legato, staccato, slurs, detached slur, accent, and pizzicato.
c. Utilize correct finger patterns in performing scales and repertoire in the keys of D, G, and C.
d. Demonstrate awareness of individual and group roles within the ensemble relating to balance, blend, dynamics, phrasing, and tempo.
MESBO.3 – Reading and notating music
a. Identify notes in the staff and on ledger lines of respective clef.
b. Read and notate notes within the following key signatures: D, G, and C.
c. Read and notate rhythms containing whole notes, half notes, quarter notes, eighth notes, dotted half notes and their corresponding rests in the time signatures of 4/4, 3/4, and 2/4.
d. Recognize basic symbols for dynamics, tempo, articulation, and expression as used in corresponding literature.
B. Creation
MESBO.4 – Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments
a. Play by ear simple melodies and provide rhythmic and melodic variations
based on those melodies.
b. Improvise simple harmonic accompaniments in the key of D.
MESBO.5 – Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines
a. Create original rhythm patterns in 4/4 time.
b. Compose simple melodies for respective instrument in the keys of D and G.
C. Critical Analysis/Investigate
MESBO.6 – Listening to, analyzing, and describing music
a. Discuss the basic principles of meter, rhythm, tonality, and
instrumentation in selected aural examples.
b. Identify melodic and harmonic material in given aural examples.
MESBO.7 – Evaluating music and music performances
a. Distinguish between correct and incorrect melodic and harmonic
intonation and demonstrate ability to adjust accordingly.
b. Evaluate the accuracy of rhythm and tempos for individual and ensemble
playing.
c. Judge the quality of performance in tone, intonation, balance, dynamics,
and rhythm.
D. Cultural and Historical Context
MESBO.8 – Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines
outside the arts
a. Explain how music contributes to a well rounded education.
b. Establish awareness that all subjects are related to music.
MESBO.9 – Understanding music in relation to history and culture
a. Identify and compare performance styles of music learned in class.
b. Discuss characteristics of music from various societies and cultures.
GRADE: 6 - 8 MUSIC – BEGINNING ORCHESTRA
A. Skills and Techniques/Performance
MMSBO.1 – Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate the ability to match pitch and adjust intonation.
b. Demonstrate an understanding of phrasing through singing simple
melodies.
c. Discuss the relationship between singing and quality tone production on a
string instrument.
MMSBO.2 – Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of
music
a. Demonstrate correct left hand position and finger placement, right hand
position (bow hold), posture, instrument position and bow placement.
b. Produce a characteristic sound using legato, staccato, slurs, detached slur,
accent, and pizzicato.
c. Utilize correct finger patterns in performing scales and repertoire in the
keys of D, G, and C.
d. Demonstrate awareness of individual and group roles within the ensemble
relating to balance, blend, dynamics, phrasing, and tempo.
MMSBO.3 – Reading and notating music
a. Identify notes in the staff and on ledger lines of respective clef.
b. Read and notate notes within the following key signatures: D, G, and C.
c. Read and notate rhythms containing whole notes, half notes, quarter notes,
eighth notes, dotted half notes and their corresponding rests in the time
signatures of 4/4, 3/4, and 2/4.
d. Recognize basic symbols for dynamics, tempo, articulation, and
expression as used in corresponding literature.
B. Creation
MMSBO.4 – Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments
a. Play by ear simple melodies and provide rhythmic and melodic variations
based on those melodies.
b. Improvise simple harmonic accompaniments in the key of D.
MMSBO.5 – Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines
a. Create original rhythm patterns in 4/4 time.
b. Compose simple melodies for respective instrument in the keys of D and G.
C. Critical Analysis/Investigate
MMSBO.6 – Listening to, analyzing, and describing music
a. Discuss the basic principles of meter, rhythm, tonality, and
instrumentation in selected aural examples.
b. Identify melodic and harmonic material in given aural examples.
MMSBO.7 – Evaluating music and music performances
a. Distinguish between correct and incorrect melodic and harmonic
intonation and demonstrate ability to adjust accordingly.
b. Evaluate the accuracy of rhythm and tempos for individual and ensemble
playing.
c. Judge the quality of performance in tone, intonation, balance, dynamics,
and rhythm.
D. Cultural and Historical Context
MMSBO.8 – Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines
outside the arts
a. Explain how music contributes to a well rounded education.
b. Establish awareness that all subjects are related to music.
MMSBO.9 – Understanding music in relation to history and culture
a. Identify and compare performance styles of music learned in class.
b. Discuss characteristics of music from various societies and cultures.
A. Skills and Techniques/Performance
GRADE: 6 - 8 MUSIC – INTERMEDIATE ORCHESTRA
A. Skills and Techniques/Performance
MMSIO.1 – Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate the ability to match pitch and adjust intonation in melodic
and harmonic settings.
b. Demonstrate an understanding of phrasing through singing simple
melodies.
c. Discuss the relationship between singing and quality tone production on a
string instrument.
MMSIO.2 – Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
a. Demonstrate correct left hand position and finger placement, right hand
position (bow hold) and bow placement, posture, instrument position and
bow placement, while increasing the level of technical difficulty.
b. Demonstrate vibrato readiness skills.
c. Produce a characteristic sound using legato, staccato, slurs, detached slur,
accent, spiccato, hooked bowing, and pizzicato.
d. Utilize correct finger patterns in performing scales and repertoire in the
major keys of D, G, C, A, F, and Bb and the minor keys of e, a, d, and b.
e. Demonstrate awareness of individual and group roles within the ensemble
relating to tone, tuning, balance, blend, dynamics, phrasing, and tempo.
MMSIO.3 – Reading and notating music
a. Identify notes in the staff and on ledger lines of respective clef.
b. Read and notate notes within the following key signatures: D, G, C, A, F,
and Bb and the minor keys of e, a, d, and b.
c. Read and notate rhythms containing whole notes, half notes, quarter notes,
eighth notes, dotted half notes, dotted quarter notes, dotted eighth notes,
sixteenth notes and their corresponding rests in the time signatures of 4/4, ¾, 2/4, 6/8, and alle breve.
d. Recognize and execute symbols for dynamics, tempo, articulation, and expression as used in corresponding literature.
B. Creation
MMSIO.4 – Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments
a. Play by ear simple melodies and provide rhythmic and melodic variations
based on those melodies.
b. Improvise simple melodies and harmonic accompaniments in the keys of D and G.
MMSIO.5 – Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines
a. Create original rhythm patterns in 4/4 time.
b. Compose simple melodies for respective instrument in the keys of D and G.
C. Critical Analysis/Investigate
MMSIO.6 – Listening to, analyzing, and describing music
a. Discuss the basic principles of meter, rhythm, tonality, and
instrumentation in selected aural examples.
b. Identify melodic and harmonic material and phrase endings in given aural
examples.
MMSIO.7 – Evaluating music and music performances
a. Distinguish between correct and incorrect melodic and harmonic
intonation and demonstrates ability to adjust accordingly.
b. Evaluate the accuracy of rhythm and tempos for individual and ensemble
playing.
c. Assess the quality of performance in tone, intonation, balance, dynamics,
articulation, precision, and rhythm.
D. Cultural and Historical Context
MMSIO.8 – Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines
outside the arts
a. Explain how music contributes to a well rounded education.
b. Establish awareness that all subjects are related to music.
MMSIO.9 – Understanding music in relation to history and culture
a. Identify and compare performance styles of music learned in class.
b. Discuss characteristics of music from various societies and cultures.
c. Compare, in several cultures of the world, functions music serves, roles of
musicians, and conditions under which music is typically performed.
Concert Attire
REQUIRED ATTIRE: FORMAL ATTIRE (For Performances)
Girls: Black Skirt (knee length), White
Blouse and Black Shoes (No Tennis Shoes)
All Boys & Girls (playing Cello/Bass): Black Dress Pants, White Shirt and
Black Dress Shoes (No Tennis Shoes)
Text and Materials: Pencil (EVERYDAY)
Rosin
Shoulder Rest/Wristband/Straws (Violin/Viola)
Rock Stop (Celli, Basses)
Folding Wire Stand
STUDENTS MUST PREPARED TO PLAY EVERYDAY.
School Year/Semester 2023-2024
Course Name
Beginning Orchestra (5th) Intermediate Orchestra (6th)
Course Code
53.0510001 53.0530001
School Name
Kittredge Magnet School
Teacher Name
S. Thompson
School Phone Number
Teacher Email
[email protected]
School Website
Teacher Website
kmsorch.weebly.com
Course Description
Curriculum Overview
The following academic concepts will be covered. THIS IS ONLY A GUIDE AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
Unit I – 1st 4 weeks
Review/Competency with On-line Tools; Learning Self-care & Tuning of your instrument (Upsizing if needed); Review Technique/Body Mapping
Unit II – Theory/Rhythmic Counting/Scales/Arpeggio/Finger Patterns/ Intonation
Unit III – Learning to Play with Metronome/Accompaniment Tracks/ Recording in your home studio/ submitting recordings
Unit IV – Solo playing/ Small Ensemble Playing/Concerts.
BOARD-APPROVED INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
Title
ISBN
Replacement Cost
Online book and/or resources
Online student access code (school specific)
GRADING SYSTEM: The DeKalb County School District believes that the most important assessment of student learning shall be conducted by the teachers as they observe and evaluate students in the context of ongoing classroom instruction. A variety of approaches, methodologies, and resources shall be used to deliver educational services and to maximize each student’s opportunity to succeed. Teachers shall evaluate student progress, report grades that represent the student’s academic achievement, and communicate official academic progress to students and parents in a timely manner through the electronic grading portal. See Board Policy IHA.
GRADING CATEGORIES
*GRADE PROTOCOL
Grade Weights:
45% Classwork: Guided, Independent or Group Practice - classwork, in-class project/mini projects
25% Assessment Tasks (Skills & Homework) - warm ups, homework, practice logs
30% Quizzes, test, & projects- quiz, tests, performance assessments, long term projects
For 4th & 5th: Music courses: P 70-100 F 0-69
A 90 – 100 ~P (pass)
B 80 – 89 ~F (fail)
C 71 – 79
D 70
F Below 70
Notes:
*English Learners (ELs) must not receive numerical or letter grades for the core content areas in elementary and middle school during their first year of language development. A grade of CS or CU must be assigned. This rule may be extended beyond the first year with approval from the EL Studies Program. English Learners must receive a grade for ESOL courses.
~Elementary schools will utilize P (pass) and F (fail) in Health/Physical Education, Music, World Languages, Visual Arts and Performing Arts.
DISTRICT EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS
STUDENT PROGRESS
Semester progress reports shall be issued four and a half, nine and thirteen and a half weeks into each semester. The progress of students shall be evaluated frequently and plans shall be generated to remediate deficiencies as they are discovered. Plans shall include appropriate interventions designed to meet the needs of the students. See Board Policy IH.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Students will not engage in an act of academic dishonesty including, but not limited to, cheating, providing false information, falsifying school records, forging signatures, or using an unauthorized computer user ID or password. See the Code of Student Conduct - Student Rights and Responsibilities and Character Development Handbook.
HOMEWORK
Homework assignments should be meaningful and should be an application or adaptation of a classroom experience. Homework is at all times an extension of the teaching/learning experience. It should be considered the possession of the student and should be collected, evaluated and returned to the students. See Board Policy IHB.
MAKE-UP WORK
DUE TO ABSENCES
When a student is absent because of a legal reason as defined by Georgia law or when the absence is apparently beyond the control of the student, the student shall be given an opportunity to earn grade(s) for those days absent. Make-up work must be completed within the designated time allotted. See Board Policy IHEA.
SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS
CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
Be On Time
Respect all Orchestra Members
Practice
Communicate with Teacher if special arrangements are needed.
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES
Essential Elements Book 1 (5th) Essential Elements Book 2 (6th)
Scales for Strings Book 1 by Samuel Applebaum (5th) Scales for Strings Book 2 by Samuel Applebaum (6th)
Instrument Ensemble
Wire Music Stand
EXTRA HELP
1-on-1 Virtual Tutorials (each student will be offered a time)
PARENTS AS PARTNERS
*** Homework/Practice Calendar Policy: Homework assignments are due on the 1st day of your Orchestra scheduled for class. All assignments are expected on the due date. Students will not receive full credit for late Practice Calendars/Homework.
Homework Policy:
There are very few acceptable reasons for late homework. If there is an emergency or other very serious issue prohibiting a child from completing his/her assignments, the parent should contact the child’s teachers to request an extension the day the work is assigned. Excuses given after the assignment is due will not be considered except in the case of serious emergencies which prohibit communication in a timely manner.
Late Work Policy Homework
1 day late -25%
2 days late -50%
3 or more days late or not submitted will be counted as a zero and will not be eligible for credit at any time on or after the 3rd day late Short-term & Long-term
Practice Calendars/Project Policy:
Projects 1 day late -11%
2 days late -21%
3 days late -31%
4 or more days late or not submitted will be counted as a zero and will not be eligible for credit at any time on or after the 4th day late. There are very few acceptable reasons for late homework. If there is an emergency or other very serious issue prohibiting a child from completing his/her assignments, the parent should contact the child’s teachers to request an extension the day the work is assigned. Excuses given after the assignment is due will not be considered except in the case of serious emergencies which prohibit communication in a timely manner and/or email from a parent about the issue (ex: power outage).
Orchestra members are expected to practice everyday (home). *** Scroll down for more details.... Class Objectives
STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND ALL PERFORMANCES
Beginning Instrumental Music (Recorder)
Course Description and Syllabus
Fall Semester 2023
Kittredge Magnet School
Ms. Stacey Thompson
Course Description: 4th Grade Instrumental Music provides a basic foundation of Music Theory, Technical Skills, and Ensemble participation. Students will learn to read notation while learning to play Recorders (in conjunction with General Music Class). The students will learn the history of String and Band Instruments through research and participation. Students will be expected and required to practice at home. Bi-weekly PRACTICE RECORDS ARE DUE SUNDAY. A PARENT SIGNATURE IS REQUIRED TO RECEIVE CREDIT.
Text and Materials:
(EVERYDAY) Pencil
Recorder
Recorder Book
Notebook
Name Card
GRADING CATEGORIES
*GRADE PROTOCOL
Formative and Diagnostic Assessments – 0%
Assessment Tasks (Skills & Homework) – 25%
Classwork (Guided, Independent, and Group Practice) – 45%
Quizzes, Tests, and Projects – 30%
A 90 – 100 ~P (pass)
B 80 – 89 ~F (fail)
C 71 – 79
D 70
F Below 70
****Recorder Students are expected to PRACTICE 15 minutes EVERYDAY****
KMS Orchestra Rules PMR: Positive Musical Results
1. No Talking/Set-up
2. Empty cases under chair
3. Shadow Bow during Sectionals
4. Do Not Talk during Instruction
5. Silent Exit
Positives
1. “Roar" Cards
2. Praise: Written/Oral
Consequences
1. Re-Teach Rule
2. Pink Slip sent home in Agenda
3. Call Parent(s) during school day
4. KMS Behavior Slip
5. Quality Time with Administrator
Severe Clause
Fighting, Vandalism, Overt Defiance,
Stopping Class from functioning result in: Immediate Office Referral
ORCHESTRA/STRING CLASS OBJECTIVES 2023-2024
Grade Level 4th Students will be able to….
Spring Semester (Only)
- Count Rhythmic Patterns
- Clap Rhythmic Patterns
- Recite Note Values
- Define Basic Music Terminology
- Understand Basic Music Theory
- Demonstrate Correct Holding Position w/h Instrument
- Demonstrate Correct Sitting Position
- Demonstrate Correct Playing Position
- Read Music for Primary Instrument
- Required Practice time will change w/h progress
Required Practice Time 7 days per week 20 minutes each day.
Grade Level 5th Students will be able to…
- Demonstrate Correct Holding Position w/h Instrument
- Demonstrate Correct Sitting Position
- Demonstrate Correct Playing Position
- Recognize Various Clefs for each Instruments
- Manipulate Bow while Playing Instrument
- Demonstrate Correct Bow Placement
- Hold Bow Correctly
Text: Essential Elements Book 1
Scales for Strings Book 1 by Samuel Applebaum
Required Practice time 7 days per week 20 minutes each day.
Grade Level 6th Students will be able to….
(Prerequisite: 1 year on
Instrument)
- Play 5 major Scales & Arpeggios
- Play 2 octave Scale
- Sight-read Level 1 & 11/2 Music
- Tune Primary Instrument
- Performance Level 2 Music
Required Practice time 7 days per week 30 minutes each day.
NOTE: Materials needed for class:
- Essential Elements Book 2
- Scales for String Orchestra Book 2 by Applebaum
- Tuner/Metronome: Quartz
- Extra Set of Strings
General Ensemble Objectives:
Rehearse as a Group
Apply learned techniques in Repertoire
Detect and Adjust Intonation when needed
Follow Conductor
Execute Phrasing, Dynamics, Tone Quality, & Style
Knowledge of Repertoire (History, Composer)
2023- 2024 KMS Orchestra Events
- August Back to School Welcome to Orchestra 2023 - 2024
- September 11, 2023 GMEA All-State Middle School Orchestra Registration (Submit to Ms. Thompson) 6th Only
- September 18 - 20, 2023 6th KMS Orchestra Chair Auditions (After-school)
- September 25, 2023 5th/6th Orchestras Chair Placements Posted/Announced
- *** 5th DQ members & 6th Quintet members announced ***
- October 14, 2023 District 4: All-State Orchestra In-person
- October 27, 2023 DYSO: Student Performance (School Day)
- November 4, 2023 District 4 Honor Orchestra (7/8 Advanced Honor Orchestra and High School Honor Orchestras)
- November 15, 2023 . GMEA LGPE Deadline (6th grade only) Ms. Thompson
- December 2023 Winter Performance (Community/School) T B A
- January 13, 2024 GMEA All-State Orchestras Final Auditions
- February 8, 2024
- GMEA All-State Acceptance Deadline
- GMEA Spring Solo/Ensemble Deadline
- March 2024 GMEA All-State Orchestras: Athens, Ga
- March 9, 2024 Elementary Honor Orchestra (Invitation Only) All Day
- March 12 - 14, 2024 GMEA LGPE (6th Orchestra Members Only)
- April 20, 2024 GMEA Spring Solo & Ensemble . (General Ray Davis Middle School
3375 East Fairview Road
Stockbridge , GA 30281 - May 2024 KMS Orchestras Spring Concert . Location TBA Performance begins @ 6 pm
Celebrations (Test)
Playing Expectations
(Friday or last day of the school week)
Correct Playing Position (holding)
Left & Right hand, Posture
Correct Notes
Are you reading them correctly?
Intonation (Is it in tune)
½ and whole steps (finger patterns)
Tempo (Accuracy)
Is the tempo correct for the style of the piece?
Rhythmic Counting (Patterns)
Are you counting the rhythms correctly while playing?