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Grading
Orchestra is a graded subject in the middle schools. You will receive an orchestra grade every marking period. The following components will determine a student’s grade in orchestra:
Participation in Orchestra Class and Concerts (30% of grade)
4 points will be possible for each rehearsal
4 Points
3 Points
2 Points
1 Point
0 Points
Student comes to rehearsal class with all needed materials (such as instruments, shoulder rest, drum sticks, music, pencil, ect.) and actively engaged in the rehearsal.
Student demonstrates effort in activities, exhibits a positive attitude, and is respectful of peers and self.
Student follows all teacher directions the first time asked and follows all classroom procedures.
Student comes to rehearsal class but lacks some needed piece material(s) (such as shoulder rest, music, pencil, ect.) and actively engaged in the rehearsal.
Student demonstrates effort in activities, exhibits a positive attitude, and is respectful of peers and self.
Student follows all teacher directions the first time asked and follows all classroom procedures.
OR
Student comes to rehearsal class with all needed materials but does not display proper behavior expectations.
Student comes to rehearsal class without their instrument, but is actively engaged in the rehearsal as well as possible without their instrument.
Student demonstrates effort in activities, exhibits a positive attitude, and is respectful of peers and self.
Student follows all teacher directions the first time asked and follows all classroom procedures.
Student comes to rehearsal class with without their instrument, and does not actively engage in the rehearsal.
Student demonstrates limited effort in activities, exhibits a poor attitude, or is not respectful of peers and self.
Student does not follow all teacher directions the first time asked or displays lack of classroom procedure protocol.
Student is Unexcused from class.
Student is in school that period, but does not come to the rehearsal class and has never come to the teacher with a pass to go to another location.
2. Lessons (40% of the grade) - Labeled as Lab in the gradebook
Each lesson is worth 20 points
v 14 points for preparedness
ü 10 points for attendance
ü 2 points for instrument
ü 1 point for music and lesson books
ü 1 point for supplies (pencil, reeds, oil, etc.)
v 6 points for practice
ü 3 possible points for practice at home
o 3 points for proficient/advanced practice
o 2 points for basic practice
o 1 point for below basic practice
ü 3 points for practice sheet
o 2 points for completed questions
o 1 point for parent signature
· A missed lesson (for any reason) will be entered in the gradebook as a ‘0’ until the lesson is made-up
· A student’s lowest lesson grade will be dropped each quarter
3. Assessments (30% of the grade)
Concerts – Attendance is required!*If there is an unavoidable family situation (wedding, graduation, educational trip, etc.) or illness that would prevent attendance, the teacher must be contacted prior to the concert and a make-up assignment may be given. For an unexcused absence from a concert (when a student is in school that day and not at the concert that evening) participation points are not excused and a make-up assignment will be assigned.
· Playing Tests (scales, concert music, etc.) - Playing tests must be completed within 2 cycles of the date announced.
· Other Assessments (performance tasks, written tests, listening reflections)
Individual Practice Time
Being a part of an orchestra involves much teamwork and a commitment from all members. The success of our orchestra depends on each player contributing to the best of their ability. Students are expected to practice at home and to be prepared with their lesson and orchestra material. Weekly lesson assignments/practice sheets will be distributed weekly. Should a student miss their lesson, they should check with Mrs. Smith and receive their assignment sheet and turn in the past week’s sheet. Parents should sign each sheet weekly. Parents, please encourage your child to practice and continue to support them by helping them find a quietly place to practice. Middle school is a time for great growth musically and we are excited to hear the progress. Your help and guidance of your child's practice routine at home is necessary for continued success. Let's make a terrific orchestra at CD Middle together.