Orchestra Eighth Grade Curriculum Objectives

2011-2012

Music Skill Development  (National Standards #1, 2, 3, 4, 5) Student develops musical skills through gradual mastery of concepts based on the elements of music: Rhythms, melody, harmony, timbre, form, expression, performance technique and vocabulary.

1. Student reads notes in the appropriate staff for chosen instrument.
2. Student reads rhythms including sixteenth notes, eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, dotted half notes, dotted quarter notes, dotted eighths, and triplets, with syncopation.
3. Student plays music in 4/4, 3/4, 2/4, 6/8, 9/8, 12/8, and cut-time.
4. Student varies tone color and articulations based on bow position, bow pressure & bow speed, with dynamic range of pp to ff.
5. Student shifts and plays in positions other than first.
6. Student knows two-octave major scales & arpeggios in C, G, D, F, and Bb major.
7. Student plays a variety of minor scales.
8. Student learns at least two tunes aurally without using notation.
9. Student tunes instrument using fine tuners and distinguishes “sharp” and “flat."
10. Student begins to refine intonation and develop awareness of it.
11. Student responds to conductor’s gestures at an intermediate to advanced level.
12. Student develops basic vibrato technique.

Reflections and Critique  (National Standards #6, 7) Through reflection and critique student learns self, group and peer assessment using specific vocabulary. Student also develops the ability to define and solve musical problems with insight, reason and technical proficiency.  

1. Student participates in verbal and written self-evaluation, individually and as an ensemble.
2. Student participates in verbal and written critique of professional musicians.
3. Student discusses expressive qualities of repertoire using terms tempo, tone, form, dynamics, texture, rhythm, pitch, melody, accompaniment, blend, & balance to analyze music.

Making Connections  (National Standards #8, 9) Student discovers how music connects, shapes and reflects cultures and history.

1. Student researches famous musicians, master composers, periods of musical history, and cultural context.
2. Student participates in public performances.

Approach to Work  (National Standards #4, 7) Student develops a sense of work, practice and performance habits both individually and collaboratively

1. Student finds examples of musical themes in everyday life.

2. Student treats teacher and classmates with respect.

3.  Student seeks help overcoming challenges & obstacles.

4.  Student makes earnest effort to participate fully.