Grading

The major criteria for assessing students in an Orchestra program are: participation, preparation, and performance:

• Participation is defined as attending all rehearsals, lessons and concerts.

• Preparation is practicing music and completion of all assignments.

• Performance is defined as the execution and presentation of music and concepts learned through the semester. This criterion is measured via playing quizzes (see below)

Each student’s grade will be assigned according to the following point system for each lesson and orchestra rehearsal:

• Participation = 3 points

• Preparation = 3 points

• Performance = 9 points per playing quiz

How to Earn Points

Participation

• 3 points = Fully engaged and participates positively to class

• 2 points = Somewhat engaged and participates in class

• 1 point = Not engaged and does not participate positively in class

• 0 points = Unexcused absence

Preparation

• 1 point earned for each item brought to class:

  • • Instrument

    • Copies of music

    • Pencil

Performance (playing quizzes)

Graded on three aspects of performance: Pitch, Rhythm, & Style/Dynamics.

Each aspect is weighed equally at 3 points.

• 3 points = extremely accurate with only 1 mistake

• 2 points = fairly accurate, with 2-3 mistakes

• 1 point = not accurate but attempts the quiz

• 0 points = unexcused absence

Grades

Grades will be calculated by dividing the total points earned by the total points possible to be earned, and the resulting number will be converted into a letter grade using the grading scale A+ => F as outlined in the HMS Student/Parent Handbook.

All students are graded on their individual achievements and development, NOT on a comparative basis.

***These guidelines, along with the rules and guidelines of Hillsborough Middle School, will be enforced during all concert events, fundraising activities, and off-site performances and trips.***