MUSIC EXPECTATIONS

Be respectful

Be responsible

Be ready to learn - to make music

MUSIC RULES

1. Listen always
2. Raise your hand and wait your turn
3. Follow directions
4. Use kind words and kind hands
5. Always make music

BEHAVIOR CONSEQUENCES

1. reminders - silent and verbal
2. fermata - take a pause from the music activity and take time to think - go to the reading room
3. conference with Mrs. Mason, classroom teacher, guidance counselor, and/or parents
4. leave the music room - go to another classroom or go to the office

EVALUATIONS and GRADES

It is very challenging giving grades in music because students regularly come to music only once a week.  Evaluations are given for consistently demonstrating skills such as singing and performing on a variety of instruments;  demonstrating understanding of music concepts through classroom discussion;  and demonstrating the process of making music by applying the concepts and skills to consistent performances. Weekly work in the classroom and participation impact a student’s understanding, demonstrating, and performing.  In the primary grades, many of the skills are developmental and students need more time and practice for mastery and consistency.  

Students are not evaluated on having trained voices or previous musical experience. Students are evaluated on mastery and consistency of skills and concepts demonstrated in class when they sing, play the instruments, demonstrate understanding of various music concepts, and participate in class discussions.  Students are informed when there is a specific evaluation and what skills are being evaluated.  Lessons are taught using Sunshine State music benchmarks. Grades are given in accordance with the Leon County Schools policy as shown on the report cards.  All students receive letter grades according to Leon County grading policies.

Students are given an opportunity to evaluate themselves after various music lessons using the following rubric.

3 – Got it!  I understand and consistently demonstrate the skill, concept, or learning goal

2 – I get it but I am inconsistent, need more time to practice, and need help with part of it

1 – Help me - I'm lost and confused 

0 - refuse to participate or try