Grading Policy
General Expectations
- Have good daily attendance. For every three classes missed, you must make up that class by practicing 30 minutes
- Demonstrate a positive attitude and contribute to each rehearsal. (Having instrument, pencil, music, etc. at every rehearsal.)
- If you find yourself lacking in these areas you may choose to do makeup work as assigned by the director.
- Attend all concerts/performances. Concerts are considered an extension of the school day, and as such must be regarded as exams assigned and completed at a specific time. They are not optional “extras”. The concerts are the culmination of daily class effort and rehearsal. Attendance at concerts is mandatory regardless of part-time jobs, other homework, transportation problems, sports or other conflicts. Personal illness, family emergency and other unforeseen situations will be handled on an individual basis, as these are exceedingly rare. Students are expected to attend the entire concert.
Requirements for a 'F' or 'D' grade
- Miss a concert or performance
- Do not complete playing tests or score an average of an ‘D’ or ‘F’
- Disrupt class
- Do not do any “make-up” work
Requirements for a 'C' grade
- Attend all performances (including assigned football games) or have it pre-excused by the director. (See #4 of General Expectations)
- Complete all playing tests with a ‘C’ grade or better
To earn an 'B' grade, Do all of the requirements of the 'C' grade plus:
- Follow General Expectations
- Attend all performances (including assigned football games) or have it pre-excused by the director. (See #4 of General Expectations)
- Be professional at all times
- Complete all playing tests with an average grade being between B and C
- PRACTICE!!!
To earn an 'A' grade, Do all of the requirements of the 'B' grade plus:
- Complete all playing tests with at least an A- average YOU MAY TAKE THE TESTS AS MANY TIMES AS YOU WISH FOR A BETTER GRADE!
- Choose a music project each semester from the following:
- Play a solo or ensemble (or be a part of an ensemble) at the TRL or District solo and ensemble contest in February, or if you are a pianist, do several accompaniments. (2nd semester only)
- Play a solo or ensemble in front of the class.
- Take weekly private lessons on your band instrument and get a letter signed by your private teacher detailing your progress.
- Be a section leader and organize weekly sectionals.
- Play in the basketball band. (This would count for 2nd semester only)
- Practice an average of 4 hours per week. Keep a practice journal signed by a parent detailing your work.
- Attend 3 concerts (classical, jazz, etc.) outside of school. (You must get approval from the director before you attend the concert.) Submit 3 programs and 3 one page, single spaced typed reviews.
- Audition for WIBC, All-State or All-Northwest honor band or orchestra.
- Be a member of an ensemble outside of school that meets weekly. (Portland Youth Philharmonic, MYS, etc.) You must provide me with a program (your name on program) from the concert or a rehearsal/performance schedule signed by the conductor.
- Choose a project and have it approved (in advance) by the director.