Week of Nov. 1, 2010

Grade 7: During the first class of the week, we will go over last weeks' test on their selected instrument. Students will hand in their Instrument Assignment Forms and their completed Rhythm Composition #1. During the second class of the week, students will learn about reading pitch (letter names) on the treble and bass staves, and will receive their first sheet of songs for their instrument, Staff Songs 1 and 2. They will learn how to use the 4 practise steps to learn new songs on Staff Songs 1 and 2.

Homework: "Looking UP and Looking Down" and Theory sheet - treble clef or bass clef.

Grade 8: This is week 7 in term 1. Students should be practising twice outside of class this week.

During the first class this week, students will listen to additional selections from the program "Blast Off" in preparation for our trip to the Toronto Symphony on Thursday morning. While remaining playing tests on Chorale Elegant are given, students will work in teams to learn the "war-word-music" chosen for their instrument.

During the second class of the week, students will work in small groups to plan and organize how/when the "war-word-music" for their instrument will be used. A large graphic score will be created and played in class.

Homework: Practise your instrument group's "war-word-pattern" using dynamics and expression. Journal #7 After hearing the musical patterns for war selected by your class and learning the one for your instrument, explain how and when your pattern should be used in the composition. Describe how you would create meaning using dynamics, tempo and other expressive elements. Be prepared to support your answer.