Music
National 4/National 5
Course Overview
AIMS OF THE COURSE
The aims of the Course are to enable pupils to:
· develop skills in creating music, which includes composing, arranging and improvising, by applying a range of basic compositional techniques
· develop skills in musical analysis and to discriminate between a range of styles and genres of music
· develop their musical literacy through an understanding of a range of music concepts and ideas
· perform a variety of music on their 2 chosen instruments with accuracy
· have the opportunity to acquire skills in the use of music technology
· reflect on, and evaluate their own work and that of others
AIMS OF THE COURSE
The aims of the Course are to enable pupils to:
· develop skills in creating music, which includes composing, arranging and improvising, by applying a range of basic compositional techniques
· develop skills in musical analysis and to discriminate between a range of styles and genres of music
· develop their musical literacy through an understanding of a range of music concepts and ideas
· perform a variety of music on their two chosen instruments with accuracy
· have the opportunity to acquire skills in the use of music technology
· reflect on, and evaluate their own work and that of others
COURSE CONTENT
Composing Skills
Pupils will develop skills in creating music, which includes composing, arranging or improvising, in order to create their own original music. Pupils will also develop understanding of a range of musical styles/genres and an awareness of the social and cultural influences on music.
Understanding Music
Pupils will develop knowledge and understanding of music, a range of music concepts and basic musical literacy. Pupils will explore music of a range of styles and genres and consider the social and cultural influences on music.
Performing Skills
In this Unit, pupils will develop performing skills appropriate to their chosen instrument(s)/voice. They will develop the ability to play accurately and maintain musical flow. Through regular practice and reflection, pupils will develop technical and musical skills while exploring a range of music.
To achieve an award, pupils must pass all of the required Units, including the Added Value Unit.
HOMEWORK REQUIREMENTS
Pupils will be expected to practise their instruments on a regular basis. There will be occasional requirements to work on composition outside class time. Musical concepts should be revised regularly.
Faculty Principal Teacher
Mr A Bruce
Assessment Methods
For National 4 pupils units will be assessed pass/fail within centres. For National 5 pupils, assessment will consist of three components: a performance to a visiting examiner, and an externally marked question paper, and one composition submitted to SQA for marking. It is possible to be presented early for Higher Music in discussion with the Music Staff, based on progress through the year.
Music: Composing Skills
In this Unit, evidence will be required that the pupil has developed a range of skills in composing or arranging or improvising, in order to create their own original music.
Understanding Music
In this Unit, evidence will be required that the pupil can demonstrate knowledge and understanding of music, a range of music concepts and musical literacy.
Music: Performing Skills
In this Unit, evidence will be required that pupils, through regular practice/rehearsal and reflection, have developed simple technical and musical performing skills on their chosen instrument(s)/voice while exploring a range of music.
Learning and Teaching Approaches
The Course has an integrated approach to learning through practical activity. Through creating, performing and using music technology, pupils will develop and apply their
understanding of music and will experience music in a variety of styles.