Grading, Syllabus & Attendance Policies

Grading & Attendance Policy:  A variety of assignments will be given each week, some will be process (formative/classwork) grades and other will be product (summative/assessment) grades and weighed 30% process, 70% product.

PROCESS (30%)

Classroom formative objectives are made up of classroom assignments (in person and on Schoology), daily exercise and homework that provide pre-assessment skill evaluation. This can include:

• Pre-assessment practice (introductory lessons in sight-singing and/or theory skills)

• Sight-reading ensemble assignments (ensemble)

• other preparatory class assignments

• Learning Ethics Grades (listed in Schoology as LEG) reflect the student’s learning during class based on the standards rubric as seen above.

PRODUCT (70%)

Concert Performance Assessments will be based on appropriate concert etiquette both on stage and in the audience, understanding of repertoire and other choral musicianship skills taught for each musical selection.

Classroom Summative Objectives are designed to show comprehension and application of a skill, music selection or other activity and can include:

• Performance/Concert Part Checks

• Sight-Reading Ensemble Assignments (individual)

• County Assessments (written and performance)

Concert/Rehearsal grades reflect the student understanding of choral and musician concepts taught and discussed throughout the year. Some of our rehearsals and concerts are after school or on weekends. During the first week of September, I review the calendar and alert students to mandatory events.  There will be at least one major concert each semester for each performing ensemble, although additional concerts may be scheduled throughout the year. Concerts are a culmination of daily rehearsals and class work. It is essential that all students be present as it is a team effort and the absence of any student reduces the educational and enjoyment value for all others. Timeliness to class, rehearsals and concerts are all equally important. Truancy will not be tolerated.  If you have more than 10 absences between concerts, LAWFUL OR UNLAWFUL, you may have to prove your preparedness to the class or not participate in that concert. You will be required to complete an alternate assignment.

Classwork, tests and quizzes will occur in written and performance form. They may be administered in groups or individually. Classwork is made up of rhythmic exercises, melodic exercises, text translations and other relevant exercises, drills, and writing assignments. Students will be tested on class music, sight-reading, and written information pertaining to their pieces and musicianship per the county and state curriculum.

***ATTENTION:  Currently unscheduled rehearsals and performances may be considered MANDATORY when the STUDENTS are given at least four weeks of notice.