The department offers Music with performing from N3-N5. Although the S3 course follows the ideals of a broad general education by this stage most pupils, having tried a variety of instruments in S1/2 will normally have settled on 2 instruments with a view to certification in S4.

Music with Performing

Course Outline N3-5

Pupils are required to perform on 2 instruments, compose and demonstrate and Understanding of Musical concepts and literacy.

Performing – each instrument is worth 30% of the marks

Instruments should be chosen from the following categories

Bagpipes Guitar/Bass Guitar Tuned Percussion

Brass Keyboard/ Piano Voice

Drumkit Woodwind

Composing – Pupils are required to produce a folio of music. Pupils are encouraged to develop their technology skills by using the computer and Sibelius program to help with composition. This unit is marked Pass/Fail. However pupils need to pass this in order to achieve the full course award.

Understanding Music – this element is worth 40% of the marks

Pupils will study different styles of music and develop aural recognition of musical concepts, ensembles etc as well as develop some knowledge of musical literacy.

Assessment

There is ongoing assessment for all three elements plus an Added Value Unit. This takes the form of pupils preparing an 8 minute program of music on 2 instruments and making a recording.

A Visiting Examiner will assess performance, on both instruments, in March of S4. Composing will be internally assessed and externally moderated.

Understanding Music will be assessed by a written paper taken during the main diet of examinations in May/June.

S3 – S6

Daily practice is essential. Those who do not have access to an instrument at home are expected to practice in the Music department at interval/lunchtime or during supported study. Practical work is monitored regularly by teachers to ensure that progress is being made. Written homework is marked by the teacher.

Worksheets, musical dictionary and revision materials are issued to reinforce listening concepts taught in class. Homework tasks are issued on a weekly basis. As 60% of the certificate Music course is practical based, pupils are strongly encouraged to attend supported study classes to further their practical skills. The department issues pupils with a list of reputable websites which pupils can access to enhance listening skills and practise exam type questions.