Method Review (4 points each)

Review at least three beginning instrumental method books. One will be assigned to you; you may choose at least two additional books from the method book list. Examine the characteristics of the book and evaluate them using the guidelines linked to each. Also comment on positive and negative features (or, at least, features you perceive to be positive or negative). Your evaluation and comments will be compiled and shared with the class on October 27; be sure all your evaluations are completed by 5:00pm on October 24. NO REVIEWS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS TIME.

• Click here to link to the list of band and string method books you may review.
  

Teaching Practica (4 points, 8 points & 12 points) /
Self-evaluations (3 points each) /
Peer Evaluations (2 points each)

Three times this quarter you will have the opportunity to practice your ensemble teaching skills. Your efforts will be videotaped so that you may evaluate how well you implemented your pedagogical goals and how well your students achieved your musical objectives. You will also assist your colleagues by providing constructive feedback on their teaching.
      More information about Teaching Practicum 1
      Songs for Teaching Practicum 2
      Literature assignments for Teaching Practicum 3

• Self-evaluation form for Practicum 2
     • Peer evaluation form for Practicum 2
• Self-evaluation form for Practicum 3
     • Peer evaluation form for Practicum 3

Observations (8 points each)

You will be given two opportunities to observe beginning level instrumentalists. Each visit should take place at a different school site and will focus on one or two particular aspects of the program. Other than with very rare exceptions approved in advance by your instructor, you are expected to observe the school's contracted, certified music teacher. Please be sure to speak to me if you have any questions regarding the appropriateness of your observation site. You may choose either of the following options:

(1) Observation A Beginning band or strings Observation A Beginning band or strings

(2) Observation A Beginning band or strings Observation B 2nd or 3rd year band or strings

Each student will be expected to hand in (1) a written report on the observation addressing the questions in the given outline and (2) a completed observation verification form.

• Observation A outline   pdf version   Word version
• Observation B outline   pdf version   Word version
• Observation verification form

NOTE: The professionals who will hosting you are doing so out of their naturally magnanimous spirit and their sincere desire to support the development of superior music teachers. Your interactions with them will be expected to keep to the highest standards of professionalism and the greatest consideration for their crowded teaching schedules. It will be your responsibility to contact the instructor, schedule the visits, and plan your transportation. If more than one student will be visiting the same teacher, your visits should be conducted as a group. Individual visits could place an unfair burden on the instructor's time and attention.

ANOTHER NOTE: The description above represents your minimum obligation for this assignment. If a teacher with whom you are working offers any opportunities for further experiences (lessons, master classes, demonstrations, small-group teaching, etc.), feel free to accept. Within reason, try not to say no to any opportunity.

Concert Report (8 points)

During this term you should attend one school concert performance. This should be a school-based performance of an instrumental group and may include concert bands, jazz bands, orchestras or marching bands (the entire performance, not just half-time). With the exception of marching bands, this should not be a festival appearance. Please complete a concert report outline. If you would like this to count as an observation, be sure to complete a verification form as well.

• Concert report outline   pdf version   Word version
• Observation verification form

Final Exam (15 points)

The term will conclude with a comprehensive written exam.  All topics addressed in the course will be covered including basic teaching pedagogy, fundamental performance skills, beginner materials, and instrumental program characteristics. Questions will be drawn from assigned readings as in-class lectures and discussions. Bring a blue/green book to the final exam session.