Music at GCS
In grades K – 5, children are exposed to and involved in many aspects of music. We listen to different styles of music, use rhythm instruments, are actively involved in movement, and learn to sing together as a group. We have units on steady beat, melody, and rhythm. Recorders will be taught in grades 3 – 5, and will be used throughout the year as an ongoing unit. This year, we are including in the recorder unit Recorder Karate. The students are able to earn “belts” as they progress through the unit. Also this year, we will be using the Orff instruments (barred melody instruments) as another means for all children to be actively involved during music class. These instruments and the many units that are taught in music class are from the music resource GamePlan. The GamePlan materials offer many engaging strategies that I use with my elementary students. Folk dances will also be introduced in the music classroom this year.
This year students in grades 3&4 will participate in the Winter Concert, and the students in grades K-2 will be involved in the Spring Concert.
Assessment is based on cooperative participation, attitude and effort.
The focus for students in grades 6 - 8 is on Music Appreciation, including units such as Classical Composers, Musicians of
the 20th Century, The History of Rock n’ Roll, The Birth of the Blues, American Musicals, World Beat, as well as music theory, composition and notation. Additionally, each student will be exposed to guitar utilizing our classroom set of guitars learning chords and melody lines. There are additional units from the music magazine Music Alive! Our music technology unit is also very popular. Additionally, two new components have been added to Jr High music: African Drumming and Jazz for Young People.
Assessment will be based on completion of assignments, quizzes, tests, and general cooperation, participation, and attitude during class.
Please feel free to contact me at any time regarding the general music program or your child specifically.