District 11 Division of Operations & Instruction
Performing Arts

 

Symphonic Strings 1
Course Number: MU.SYMSTR1
Overview
This is a Level III high school instrumental music class. Students must audition to be enrolled in this class. Symphonic Strings is a class in which various styles of music are studied and performed. Emphasis is placed on the improvement of ensemble playing. This orchestra performs at school concerts and community events. Wind and percussion players may be added when needed. Attendance at scheduled performances is required and is considered part of the student's grade.
Prerequisite: Level II high school instrumental music class or instructor’s approval.
Course Length: 2 Quarters 
Grade Level: 9 - 12  Credit per Semester: 1
Additional Credit Information: Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Humanities or Elective)
For Teachers
Semester 1
Semester 2
Prerequisite
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Standards

Enduring Understandings - important ideas that students should carry with them years beyond the instruction received this year.

  • Knowledge of and ability to perform music at Level III or beyond.
  • Ability to use expressive elements in a performance.
  • Ability to read complex musical notation appropriate to Level III.
  • Ability to write more complex musical notation.
  • Ability to identify and understand the differences in musical structure.
  • Ability to identify and understand the characteristics of a quality performance.

Essential Questions - most important “big picture” questions students should be able to answer after completing learning activities.

  •  How do we determine what needs to be improved in a performance? 
  •  How do we improve the performance?
  •  How do we incorporate expressive elements?
  •  How do we analyze music?
  •  What are the characteristics of a quality performance?

Research Skills: 


 

Sample Units

Unit 1
 

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