Grade 8: Students have recently been quizzed on their knowledge of whole, half, quarter, and eighth notes. We have been spending a quite a bit of time this year making sure that all students are not only able to identify these notes, but also be able to write music as well as perform the rhythms being discussed. Students have already completed one set of performance (clapping) tests, and are now working on our next set of rhythm tests.

Students have also been leveled in class on their ability to read pitches. Many students who were in track one have passed a test proving their comprehension of treble clef and are now beginning to learn to read music in bass clef. Students who began the year in track two are continuing their work on reading and writing music in both bass and treble clefs.

This cycle we are also beginning our unit on opera. Students will learn about the different vocal parts found in operatic music, as well as terminology for the different parts of an opera, as well as information regarding the composers of this type of music.

Grade 7: Students have recently been quizzed on their knowledge of whole, half, quarter, and eighth notes. We have been spending a quite a bit of time this year making sure that all students are not only able to identify these notes, but also be able to write music as well as perform the rhythms being discussed. Students have already completed one set of performance (clapping) tests, and are now working on our next set of rhythm tests.

Students have also been leveled in class on their ability to read pitches. Many students who were in track one have passed a test proving their comprehension of treble clef and are now beginning to learn to read music in bass clef. Students who began the year in track two are continuing their work on reading and writing music in both bass and treble clefs.

In the upcoming weeks we will begin our unit of study on jazz music. This will cover the cultural history of jazz, the music, as well as the performers who created the music.

Grade 6: Students have recently been quizzed on their knowledge of whole, half, quarter, and eighth notes. We have been spending a quite a bit of time this year making sure that all students are not only able to identify these notes, but also be able to write music as well as perform the rhythms being discussed. Students have already completed one set of performance (clapping) tests, and are now working on our next set of rhythm tests.

In the upcoming weeks we will begin our unit on patriotic music. This will include the history of the Star Spangled Banner, as well as talking about the multiple verses of the song, and memorizing the words to the first verse. Students will also study other patriotic songs, then write their own patriotic song.

More info to come for grades K-5