In Fourth Grade, students will be continuing the instruction on the Recorder that they started at Windsor Creek. In addition, they will be using other instruments to help them transition from performing on a solo instrument to performing as a group. They will also be learning about music from other cultures, music from other time periods, and learning about how music is constructed. We will be starting to experiment with composing music as well.
RECORDERS FOR 4TH GRADERS:
Brooks Elementary School purchased high-quality Recorders for all students in the school a number of years ago. At the end of each year, the instruments and cases are sterilized following CDC guidelines using bleach, soap, and hot water. Through the use of an extensive letter and number system, each recorder is maintained in a safe, hygienic environment in the classroom with absolutely no chance for cross-contamination. I encourage your child to have a home-use recorder for practice outside of the classroom. The recorders you received from Windsor Creek will work very well for this purpose. I
California State Standards for Music Education - Grade 4
Music Education at Brooks Elementary School is aligned with the California State Standards for Music Education. These standards are as follows:
1.0 ARTISTIC PERCEPTION
Processing, Analyzing, and Responding to Sensory Information Through the Language and Skills Unique to Music
Students read, notate, listen to, analyze, and describe music and other aural information, using the terminology of music.
Read and Notate Music
Read, write, and perform melodic notation for simple songs in major keys, using solfege.
Read, write, and perform diatonic scales.
Read, write, and perform rhythmic notation, including sixteenth notes, dotted notes, and syncopation (e.g., eighth/quarter/eighth note and eighth-rest/quarter/eighth note).
Listen to, Analyze, and Describe Music
Describe music according to its elements, using the terminology of music.
Classify how a variety of instruments from diverse cultures produce sound (e.g., idiophone, aerophone, chordaphone, membranophone).
Recognize and describe aural examples of musical forms, including rondo.
2.0 CREATIVE EXPRESSION
Creating, Performing, and Participating in Music
Students apply vocal and instrumental musical skills in performing a varied repertoire of music. They compose and arrange music and improvise melodies, variations, and accompaniments, using digital/electronic technology when appropriate.
Apply Vocal and Instrumental Skills
2.1 Sing a varied repertoire of music from diverse cultures, including rounds, descants, and songs with ostinatos, alone and with others.
2.2 Use classroom instruments to play melodies and accompaniments from a varied repertoire of music from diverse cultures, including rounds, descants, and ostinatos, by oneself and with others.
2.3 Compose and improvise simple rhythmic and melodic patterns on classroom instruments.
3.0 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT
Understanding the Historical Contributions and Cultural Dimensions of Music
Students analyze the role of music in past and present cultures throughout the world, noting cultural diversity as it relates to music, musicians, and composers.
Role of Music
3.1 Explain the relationship between music and events in history.
Diversity of Music
3.2 Identify music from diverse cultures and time periods.
3.3 Sing and play music from diverse cultures and time periods.
3.4 Compare musical styles from two or more cultures.
3.5 Recognize the influence of various cultures on music in California.
4.0 AESTHETIC VALUING
Responding to, Analyzing, and Making Judgments About Works of Music
Students critically assess and derive meaning from works of music and the performance of musicians according to the elements of music, aesthetic qualities, and human responses.
Analyze and Critically Assess
4.1 Use specific criteria when judging the relative quality of musical performances.
Derive Meaning
4.2 Describe the characteristics that make a performance a work of art.
5.0 CONNECTIONS, RELATIONSHIPS, APPLICATIONS
Connecting and Applying What Is Learned in Music to Learning in Other Art Forms and Subject Areas and to Careers
Students apply what they learn in music across subject areas. They develop competencies and creative skills in problem solving, communication, and management of time and resources that contribute to lifelong learning and career skills. They also learn about careers in and related to music.
Connections and Applications
5.1 Identify and interpret expressive characteristics in works of art and music.
5.2 Integrate several art disciplines (dance, music, theatre, or the visual arts) into a well-organized presentation or performance.
5.3 Relate dance movements to express musical elements or represent musical intent in specific music.