Classroom Expectations

Classroom Expectations

The band students at Poplar Tree have been told about my expectations of them both in class and outside of class. This list is to give you an idea to help understand what they are being assessed on.

  • Be prepared at the start of class with:

    • Instrument and its corresponding accessories(reeds, ligature, neck strap, mouthpiece)

    • Band folder with their book, rhythm packet, and other handouts and music I distribute

    • Pencil

    • Laptop when requested(teachers will be emailed prior)

    • Band mask and instrument bell cover

    • Band Assignment tracker with parent signature. This form doesn’t need specific practice times listed right now but does need a signature. When signing each week, please review what their assignment was and help make sure they recorded their pass-offs in Flipgrid if we didn’t have time to do it in class. Thanks!

  • Practicing outside of class

    • Students should play 4-5 days per week for 15-30 minutes each time at least. Playing is their homework and they are expected to come to class prepared. Getting your child to practice might be a challenge, that is normal, you are not alone. I have told them they may also practice silently(instrument out and going through music and fingerings) at times when they are not able to play(late/early in the night, siblings sleeping, etc.) .

    • Any practice time in the week is better than no practice time! I suggest trying to help your student find a routine that works well for your family(and any neighbors too if needed) to encourage regular practice sessions. Reach out if you need additional tips or advice on this topic.

    • Please encourage and praise all playing, even if the music/exercise seems boring or squeaks happen. I promise it has a purpose and all praise they receive will help them grow on the instrument and their confidence more than it may seem. :)

    • Students may ALWAYS explore additional songs in their books or try to learn pop songs on their instrument, this counts as practicing!

  • Classroom Behavior Expectations

    • Students are assessed each class on behavior during class. Since we only have class one hour per week it is crucial that hour is productive.

    • I have asked the students that they must be kind while in the band room. Kind to each other, the teacher, their instruments, and our equipment. This includes limiting side conversations and only playing when asked to do so.

  • Playing Expectations

    • I will cover this more in the grading section. Students are expected to be prepared for class. I ask that they always try their best, whatever their best may be. Each student has different natural talents with playing instruments and it is my job to help our entire class and program succeed. I want each student to feel included and not left behind!

    • Students are expected to always make GOOD sounds on their instruments. We continue to work on tone and intonation in each class and the students are improving very quickly! We like to describe their tone as being a “Big, Dark, Warm, Round, Sound” in case you want some pointers if helping your student.