As with any class, homework is an important piece for the student. Students are asked to aim for a goal of 100 minutes of practice per week. The good student should practice 20 minutes four or more times per week. This allows them to improve their basic skills and at the same time become more proficient on their instrument for ensemble work. Please support your child in their efforts to make themselves good student musicians. Grade Explanation: Class Participation: Each student begins the quarter with 100% of his/her class participation grade (100 points). Homework/Practice Chart: Students are expected to practice at least 100 minutes each week (20 minutes X 5 days). Students will maintain a Practice Chart, listing each day and the minutes of practice that day. Practice Charts will be collected each marking period. Please have your parent review and initial your Practice Chart each week. All practice Charts turned in at the end of the marking period must be initialed by a parent/guardian. Tests/Quizzes/Quarterly Requirements: Each student will be assessed on a regular basis both in full band and sectionals. These assessments will include and are not limited to written and performance quizzes. In the event of an absense, for any reason, the student is required to make-up the quiz or test. In the event that the student fails a test simply because they refused to review or seek extra help, a "make-up" test does not have to be given. Concert attendance, attire, and performance: Band is not just a class; it is also a performance ensemble. This means that each student's attendance and participation is essential for the success of the entire band. Before, during, and after each performance; proper attire, appropriate behavior and stage presence is expected.