Ohio's Learning Standards for Fine Arts: Music

Purpose: To provide a comprehensive framework for music education, fostering lifelong learning and appreciation of music for young students through critical thinking, technology integration, and cultural appreciation.

Guiding Principles:

• Encourage daily creativity and leadership through music for young learners.
• Promote thoughtful and knowledgeable responses to music.
• Highlight music as a means of cultural expression and diversity.

2024 Music Standards: Focused on musical literacy, these standards aim to enhance students' abilities in:

• Creating
• Performing
• Responding
• Connecting

The standards are structured grade-by-grade from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, adaptable to various instructional settings and teaching methods. Technology integration and artistic processes are emphasized throughout the curriculum.

2024 Performing Ensemble Strand: Designed for young students of varying abilities within performing ensembles, this strand accommodates mixed skill levels, ensuring personalized learning and progression.

For more detailed information, visit the Ohio Fine Arts Standards.

Intermediate Band Course Description:

This year-long instrumental music course for students in grades 6-8 meets daily. Students will learn instrument care, playing techniques, music reading, improvisation, and performing in a band setting.

Enduring Understandings:

• Creating: Developing works through creative thinking and reasoning.
• Performing: Using personal skills to solve problems creatively and present work.
• Responding: Engaging in analysis and interpretation of artistic works.
• Connecting: Understanding and communicating the value of creative expressions in various contexts.

Quarterly Performance Goals & Assessments:

Quarter I Goals:

• 6th Grade: Perform accurately, understand instrument techniques, critique live performances.
• 7th Grade: Perform accurately, compare techniques, critique performances.
• 8th Grade: Perform accurately, analyze techniques, explain music styles.

Quarter II Goals:

• 6th Grade: Perform rhythmic patterns, improvise short passages.
• 7th Grade: Perform rhythmic patterns, improvise longer passages.
• 8th Grade: Perform rhythmic patterns, improvise extended passages.

Quarter III Goals:

• 6th Grade: Identify major music periods and uses in cultures.
• 7th Grade: Identify music styles and historical contexts.
• 8th Grade: Examine contemporary music and its societal reflections.

Quarter IV Goals:

• 6th Grade: Identify dynamics, meter, and forms in music.
• 7th Grade: Identify key signatures and forms in various music styles.
• 8th Grade: Identify intervals, pitches, and roles in music forms.

Grading Policy:

• Participation (33%): Engagement in class activities and attendance with materials.
• Performance (33%): Participation in school productions and stage etiquette.
• Tests/Quizzes (33%): Demonstration of class skills and mastery of content.

Classroom Culture:

• Cooperative and supportive environment for performances and discussions.
• Students earn PBIS points for being Respectful, Responsible, Safe, and Engaged.

Classroom Routines & Procedures:

• Assigned seats by instrument.
• Quiet entry with instruments, 5 minutes to set up.
• Lesson until the last 5 minutes for packing up.

Behavioral Expectations:

• Daily instrument practice and presence.
• Follow conductor cues, play instruments as instructed.
• Proper care for instruments and mutual respect among classmates.