Grading Policy

 

Students in band are graded on a weighted percentage system.  Students receive points for the following:  Playing tests, videotaped performance tests, written tests, scale tests, theory homework, band rehearsals, concert attendance & miscellaneous assignments.

 

*All scales are one octave in length

*Test weeks 3-6 (Each student will be allowed two chances to complete the scales)

*Extra credit – no mistakes – 20 points

 

First Quarter – B-Flat concert and Chromatic Scales

Second Quarter – A-Flat concert and Chromatic Scales

Third Quarter – E-flat & G concert, Chromatic one octave, c melodic minor (extra credit)

Fourth Quarter – F & C concert, Chromatic same as third quarter, a melodic minor (extra credit)

     

 

The Major Scale test is worth 100 points.   The students will be able to use their music for the scale tests. Points are received for the amount of correct notes played.  Each student will only perform this test in front of their teacher, not in front of the entire class.  Students who have not completed this test will have a zero averaged into their grade.  (Warning - Students who score poorly on their first scale test are usually shocked by the low grade for band on their mid-term report.  Usually, all that is required to fix this grade is to improve on the second scale test.  Please check the comments on the mid-term and call if you have questions.) 

 

The Chromatic Scale test is worth 100 points. Students will be required to play a chromatic scale passage with music at a specified tempo.  Points are received for the amount of correct notes played.  The chromatic scale will be tested during group lessons.  Students who have not completed this test will have a zero averaged into their grade.   (Warning - Students who score poorly on their first scale test are usually shocked by the low grade for band on their mid-term report.  Usually, all that is required to fix this grade is to improve on the second scale test.  Please check the comments on the mid-term and call if you have questions.) 

 

Playing tests consist of material assigned from the lesson book, band music, or supplementary material.  The assigned music is to be prepared to play for the teacher at the assigned lesson.  Teachers assign a point value for the test and students are awarded points for the quality of their performance.

 

Videotaped tests are intended to give a more in depth assessment of student performance.  Grading of these tests is based upon a rubric, which includes – tone quality, breathing techniques, playing position and technical accuracy.  Please see a copy of the rubric for more detailed information.

 

Written tests may cover a variety of topics from music theory to music history to instrument care, etc.  Once again, the teacher will assign a point value for the test and students work toward receiving the most points possible.

 

 

Students may retake a test on which they score below 80%.  Students have one week from the original date of the test to retake the test, and must schedule a time before or after school to do so.  The two test scores will be averaged.  You are expected to make every reasonable effort to practice and seek help before the testing occurs to avoid scoring below 80% on your first effort.

 

Students are given a packet of music theory worksheets at the beginning of each quarter. Weekly assignments are due at specified times outlined on in the theory packet.  Rhythm worksheets and tests are also included in this grading category. 

 

Students earn points for attending band rehearsals and actively contributing in a positive manner.  Each rehearsal is worth 6 points.  Students earn points by having their instrument and music, being on time, attending as scheduled, following directions and participating in a positive manner. Students not bringing instruments will lose 3 points and receive a detention.  Students having unexcused absences from full band will lose all points for the day and will incur further grading and disciplinary consequences as per the attendance policy.

 

All students will be graded using the following weighted system:

         

                15%     Music Theory

                20%     Rehearsal and Concert Points

                25%     Scales

                35%     Quizzes and Tests

                5%        BOPS and miscellaneous

 

Students having unexcused absences lose attendance points and incur further grading and disciplinary consequences as per the attendance policy.

 

These assignments may include such items as putting a name tag on a case, taking instruments home over long weekends or breaks, having pencils with them, etc.  Usually these assignments are less than 20 points.  BOPS are our practice sheets that students are to fill out every time they practice!  These sheets are to be signed by a parent or guardian and returned to Miss Reckers each Wednesday at full band. 

 

Students can and do receive detentions from band instructors.  The two most common infractions are forgetting an instrument and arriving late for class.  Other reasons for receiving detentions include excessive talking, failure to attend band when scheduled or other types of disruptive and inappropriate behavior.  Students assigned a detention in band are expected to arrive at the assigned date and time with their instrument ready to practice for 30 minutes.  If you have any questions concerning our detention policy, please contact us.

 

            I would like to thank you for your support of the band program.  Playing an instrument requires a lot of    

            encouragement and support at home.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s

            progress or about band in general, please feel free to email me at reckersm@district87.org call me at

            827-0086  ext. 269.