GRADING

Mounds View High School has an "85/15" grading scale - 85% performance and 15% practice. 

Choir is a performance class. We will be using a 100% performance grading scale with percentages for each category.

Below you will find both criteria and what will make up their respective percentages. We are using a proficiency based grading model.  Proficiency achievements are described in each category below. A student’s final grade will no longer be reported as a percentage, but rather a scale score between 0.0 and 4.0. You may notice that it is very similar to the scale used to calculate GPAs (grade point averages). Grades are not given - they're records of student effort and progress!

A  3.51 – 4.00      C 2.00 – 2.24 4 - Mastery - Went beyond basic requirements for proficiency

A- 3.25 – 3.50      C- 1.75 – 1.99 3 - Proficiency - Met all basic requirements for proficiency

B+ 3.01 – 3.24     D+ 1.5  – 1.74 2 - Developing - Met some basic requirements for proficiency

B 2.75 –  3.00      D 1.00  – 1.49 1 - Limited Understanding - Met very few basic requirements for proficiency

B- 2.50 – 2.74      I 0.0   – 0.99          0 - Insufficient evidence - Didn’t show enough work to demonstrate proficiency

C+ 2.25 – 2.49                        M - Missing - Missing evidence of proficiency

PERFORMANCE GRADING

Daily Engagement & Assignments (15%) - Students will receive weekly updates on their classroom engagement. Proficiency is demonstrated by being attentive during class, bringing necessary materials each day, and keeping pace with the class. At the start of each class, students should have their folder ready and place their phone in their folder slot. In addition to learning music, we will explore how music works—covering topics such as intervals, key signatures, and music vocabulary. Assignments related to these topics will be provided, and their completion will be expected.

Performance Assessments & Lessons (20%) - Students will be assessed on their knowledge and ability with the music we are currently singing. Students may record themselves singing and complete a self-evaluation in Google Classroom. Mrs. Kitzman will then listen and assess the recording as well. Each student will also have one 15-minute voice lesson with Mrs. Kitzman during their lunch period each semester to receive individualized feedback. Along with learning music, we will be studying how the music works (see daily assignments), and progress will be measured through assessments. Proficiency is achieved when students are able to demonstrate the concepts.

Rehearsals & Concerts (65%) - At rehearsals and concerts, students arrive on time with appropriate attire, demonstrate commitment to artistic expression, and demonstrate professional etiquette on and off the stage.

PERFORMANCES

IT IS MANDATORY THAT STUDENTS ATTEND ALL PERFORMANCES.

As a choir, performances are a part of our year, and thus a part of your grade. Every performance is listed in this packet.  Put them on your calendars, so you are not forced to make a decision later!

MVHS Music Department Policy:

If a student misses a performance because of an avoidable circumstance (such as work conflict, extra-curriculars, homework, not having a ride, evening classes, etc.), students will NOT be able to make up the performance. We are not required to provide a make-up assignment for performances in these instances. While we understand emergencies happen (i.e. family emergency, sickness or serious injury), we want everyone to have the opportunity to perform as much as possible. 

We expect all students to attend every performance of which they are a part. If a family knows that a student will be gone for travel, a concert makeup is offered if a parent/guardian emails Mrs. Kitzman one month prior. 

What does a Concert Makeup look like?

1. A parent/guardian must email Mrs. Kitzman if a student is unable to attend a concert ONE MONTH prior to the concert in order to receive make-up work.

2. The student will individually sing the songs the choir sang at the concert they missed with Mrs. Kitzman one week after the concert.