National 5

Music is a practical, hands on subject that develops your imagination and creativity. It helps you to develop important skills such as: playing a musical instrument, communication, creative thinking, using your voice, composing and arranging music. You will also learn about different genres of music and develop you knowledge and understanding of a range of music concepts and literacy.

What will be different in S4?

· There will be four lessons a week.

· You will focus on two instruments/voice of your choice and learn a range of music on each instrument.

· You will learn to develop your music literacy skills.

· You will learn about different musical styles and the basics of reading and writing music.

· You will participate in formal SQA assessments

How will I learn?

· You will be practicing individually and performing music in a group.

· Active learning will take place in all lessons

· You will complete self and peer evaluations for next steps.

How will I know I am progressing?

· You can sing/play different styles of music confidently.

· You can identify features in music and can comment constructively on the work of others.

· You will discuss with your teacher your achievements and steps for improvement.

· You will set yourself targets.

How can I take this course forward?

· Higher Music is offered in S5/S6

What are the possible career opportunities from this course?

· Music teacher, performer or composer. It would also help to get into Theatre/TV, sound engineering and music production.

What will my home learning commitment be?

If possible, practising your instruments at home. If this is not possible, the department is available at lunch and after school for extra practice. You will also need to revise all musical concepts covered in class.

EXAM

• Listening question paper in main diet of exams - 40 marks

• External Performance exam – February / March - 60 marks

• Level you need to be for National 5

• Grade 3

• Performance programme on 2 instruments or 1 instrument and voice

• 6 minute programme comprising:

  • Minimum 2 minutes on one instrument ( e.g. 4&2, 3&3)

  • Minimum 2 pieces on each instrument