What To Expect
These are the expectations for a regular school year. I am anticipating that the themes will be the same and as much material will be covered as possible given the unusual circumstances in which we find ourselves.
The biggest impact on my teaching is in the area of singing and of playing instruments. I am hopeful that beginning the second quarter of school that at least some instrument playing will be possible. Until then I will be attempting to be creative and use modified, easily available tools...such as pencils or chopsticks instead of rhythm sticks or mallets; homemade instruments or other instrument substitutions.
I thank you in advance for your understanding and your flexibility!
Kindergarten
Kindergarten students explore music by themes, such as seasons, holidays, animals, letters, and numbers.
Instruments used include many rhythm and percussion instruments, along with the Orff glockenspiels
Grades are based on participation only
First Grade
First graders explore American folk music, instruments, patriotic music and dance
In addition to the instruments practiced in Kindergarten, first graders begin to explore more of the Orff instruments, including xylophones, metallophones and glockenspiels.
Learning rhythmic notation is emphasized.
Grades are based on participation and in-class assessments of basic skills.
Second Grade
Second grade students learn about music around the world. Some of the countries we study include Germany, Israel, Kenya, Mexico, Japan and Australia. Students learn to play and sing folk songs from these diverse cultures using combinations of all the above mentioned instruments as well as play traditional games and dances.
More complex rhythm combinations are emphasized.
Grades are based on participation, in-class assessments of basic skills and completion of a multi-cultural portfolio.
Third Grade
In Third Grade students learn about classical composers, such as Vivaldi, Bach, Beethoven and Mozart.
They learn to play and sing music of these composers using rhythm instruments, Orff instruments (glockenspiels, metallophones and xylophones) and Boomwhackers.
Reading music notation on the staff is introduced while rhythmic skills continue to be strengthened.
Grades are based on participation, basic skill level assessments and in-class quizzes and/or tests
Fourth Grade
Fourth graders continue to develop their music reading and rhythmic skills utilizing the recorder and the Orff instruments. Grades are based on passing recorder skill tests, quizzes and/or tests as well as participation.
Practice at home becomes NECESSARY!!