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Course Descriptions
Music
National 4 Music
Description
The National 4 music is designed to develop pupils’ skills in performing, composing and understanding music. An ideal pathway to National 4 music would be to have completed S3 music, as sufficient instrumental skills are necessary to achieve an award in National 4 music.
Course Units/Assessment
Performing Skills
Pupils will develop their performance skills on two instruments, or one instrument and voice. Learners will perform individually in preparation for the performance assessments which take place internally. Pupils are assessed internally on their melodic and rhythmic accuracy, tempo and flow, mood and character, tone and dynamics. National 4 pupils must perform two pieces on each instrument/voice, lasting for a minimum of two minutes (Added Value Unit requires 8 minutes of performance).
Composing Skills
Pupils will be introduced to the basic principles of composition, exploring how to create original music using a variety of techniques and resources. This will include composing with instruments, technology or voice. As well as composing, pupils must review their composition process. This will be assessed internally.
Understanding Music
Pupils will be introduced to a variety of musical styles, genres and historical periods of music. Pupils will learn to identify features and techniques used by composers and performers. Pupils will also learn to read and understand music notation, theory and develop their aural skills. This knowledge will be assessed through internal testing.
Added Value Unit (Performing)
Pupils will also complete an added value unit in performing. The unit requires pupils to perform on two instruments, or one instrument and voice, for 8 minutes, and performed “live” in front of an audience (of one or more observers). Pupils should complete the performance in solo and/or group settings. This performance will be recorded for evidence purposes. After this performance, pupils will evaluate their performance, through reflecting on their strengths and possible areas for improvement.
All four units must be completed to achieve the full National 4 qualification.
Progression
Upon successful completion of National 4 music, pupils may progress to National 5 music (SCQF 5).
The skills developed in this course also provide a foundation for musical and creative pursuits.
National 5 Music
Description
The National 5 music course provides pupils with the opportunity to develop skills in performing, composing and understanding music. An ideal pathway to National 5 music would be to have completed S3 music, as sufficient instrumental skills are necessary to achieve an award in National 5 music.
Course Content:
Performance
Pupils will develop their performance skills on two instruments, or one instrument and voice. Learners will perform individually in preparation for the performance exams which take place in February/March, marked by a visiting examiner. Pupils are assessed on their melodic and rhythmic accuracy, tempo and flow, mood and character, tone and dynamics..
Understanding Music
Pupils will be introduced to a variety of musical styles, genres and historical periods of music. Pupils will learn to identify features and techniques used by composers and performers. Pupils will learn to read and understand music notation, theory and develop their aural skills.
Composition
Pupils will continue to develop their skills in composing original music. Pupils will develop compositional skills through the creation of pieces for different ensembles or solo instruments, considering elements such as harmony, melody, rhythm and instrumentation.
Assessment
Performance (50%)
National 5 pupils will perform a programme lasting between 8 minutes and 8 minutes 30 seconds, between two instruments, or one instrument and voice. Pupils must perform for a minimum of two minutes on each instrument, with timing splits at the discretion of the candidate. Pupils also require a minimum of two pieces per instrument/voice.
Question Paper (35%)
National 5 pupils will complete a listening paper completed under exam conditions, testing their knowledge and analysis of music. The exam paper lasts 45 minutes, and is marked out of 40. This exam will take place in April or May.
Music Assignment (15%)
Pupils will compose an original piece of music during class time. This is worth 15% of the overall grade awarded at completion of the course. Compositions must explore and develop musical ideas and show creativity. As well as composing, pupils must review their composition process.The composition can be in any style/genre, and must last between a minimum of 1 minute and a maximum of 2 minutes and 30 seconds. This will be assessed externally by the SQA.
Progression
Upon successful completion of National 5 music, pupils may progress to Higher music (SCQF 6), or pursue further education in music through college or university courses.
The skills developed in this course also support various career paths in music, education, media and the creative industries.
Drama
National 5 Drama
Course Description
The National 5 Drama course is designed to develop students’ creative and practical skills in drama. It provides opportunities for learners to explore a variety of dramatic techniques, forms, and contexts.
Production Skills include:
Set Design
Costume Design
Props Design
Theatrical Hair & Makeup Design
Sound Design
Assessment
The course is split into 3 key components:
Component 1: Written exam which consists of two sections. In section 1 students will answer questions on a performance that they were involved in throughout the year. In section 2 students will devise a play and then answer a range of questions on it.
Students will study and read through a set text at the beginning of the year, act out scenes from this text and then write an essay explaining how they would act or direct the play based on themes, plot and character development. This will take place during the National Exam diet.
Component 2: A practical performance. Actors will perform two 10-15 minute scenes from two separate plays. Designers will create and present two production skills from the same play. Students will also write a Preparation for Performance which is worth 10 marks of their final grade. The performance exam will take place between March and April.
Final Exam
This course has two exams, a written and practical exam. During the Practical Exam the students will perform in small groups and perform a 8-10 minute
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