January 7, 2013

Grade 6: 
Our goals for this week are to learn a reading song using our knowledge of sol, mi, do, la and the remaining scale notes.  We will add words to this song, and add the terms treble clef, verse, scale, pitched instrument, repeat sign, bar line, double bar line, measure, time signature, staff, quarter note, eighth notes, quarter rest, lyrics, ostinato, first and second endings, and verse to our list of terms. If time permits, we will create a simple rhythmic composition as an interlude between verses.

During our first class of the week we will review scale tones by echo singing. Then we will read and sing The Scale Song, following the first and second endings. We will add our own lyrics based upon the way the pitches move upward and downward. Some students will have an opportunity to play the melody on a xylophone.

During our second class of the week, we will review the scale song and add an ostinato using the notes  do, and sol. We will perform the song with melody, ostinato and add an interlude it time permits.Students should study for a written test on musical terms next week.

Grade 7: This is week 7 in term 1. Students are should practise twice this week outside of class. Our goals for this week are to play songs 15 to 20 confidently and begin to compose our own question and answer song using our understanding of pattern in music.

During our first class of the week we will begin with a scale warm up and then receive a complete fingering chart for our instrument which should be kept in a music binder and brought to class for the entire year. We will review songs 15-20 in our book.

During the second class of the week, we will learn about how composers use patterns to create melodies. Students will receive a composing assignment and will be expected to complete the composition and be able to play it slowly for their next class.

Grade 8:  This is week 13 in term 1. Students are should practise twice this week outside of class.OUr goals for this week are to compose an original hymn using our knowledge of  harmony, chord tones and non-chord tones.

During the first class of the week, we will review information covered about chords and harmony, referring to the worksheet provided earlier in the term. Students will form groups of 3 or 4 and begin planning their harmony chords and determine who will play the top, middle and/or bottom notes of each chord.

During the second class of the week, students will add passing tones to their composition to create an independent melody.They will practise their melody alone and then practise playing it with their group.