Lauren Glass, Music Teacher

Welcome to the Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School General Music Program! I hope
that we can learn about music together while having some fun, too.
In this handbook you will find information about General Music 5 and General Music 6.

I. The Curriculum, Grading Policy & Attendance

II. Conduct & Discipline
III. Specific Guidelines
IV. Information Sheet

Please read this handbook carefully and return the form attached no later
than Friday, September 17, 2010.
General Music 5

Course Description
5th grade general music is a year-long course that gives students an introduction to both
the academic & performance aspects of music. The fundamentals of singing, note
reading, and instrumental performance are introduced through an emphasis on music
history (including many non-Western cultures), composition, and technology.

Outline of Topics
1. Major periods of music history
2. Music of non-Western cultures
3. Music skills
a. Sight-singing
b. Notation
 4. Composition
5. Ensemble
6. Listening skills
7. Performance skills

Grade Evaluation

Class Work (Daily work, notebook, journal) 25%

Performance Skills (Sight-singing, notation, rhythm) 25%
Assessments (Tests, quizzes, and projects) 25%
Effort (Daily participation in discussions, individual, and group work) 25%

There may be modifications to this course description, outline and evaluation depending
upon the needs and abilities of the students as the quarter progresses.

SOL References: 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 5.10; 5.11; 5.12; 5.13

General Music 6

Course Description
6th grade general music is a year-long course that gives students an opportunity to
explore a variety of musical topics with an emphasis on music technology and
composition. The fundamentals of singing, notation, and instrumental performance are
introduced.

Outline of Topics
1. Listen, Define, and Explore Music
2. The Elements of Music:
a. Melody, Harmony, Rhythm, Texture, Form
3. Music and Technology
4. Music in Society
5. Music and Advertising
6. Music and Film
7. Skills:
a. Sight-reading
b. Notation

Grade Evaluation

Class Work (Daily work, notebook, journal) 25%

Performance Skills (Sight-singing, notation, rhythm) 25%
Assessments (Projects, quizzes, and tests) 25%
Effort (Daily participation in discussions, individual, and group work) 25%

There may be modifications to this course description, outline and evaluation depending
upon the needs and abilities of the students as the quarter progresses.
 SOL References: MS.1; MS.2; MS.3; MS.4; MS.5; MS.6; MS.7; MS.8; MS.9
Middle School General Music Grading Policy - 25% each

● Class Work includes group and individual work, worksheets and activities completed
during class time (projects are separate). Students will also be assessed on the neatness
and completion of their notebooks and daily journal entries.
● Performance Skills include sight-singing assessments on the material being studied
in class. These will be done in the form of in-class group assessments as well as
individual assessments with Ms. Glass
● Assessments include any projects, quizzes, and tests given in or out of class. Rubrics
will always be provided for projects so students know exactly what they are being graded
on.
● Effort shows that the student attempts to make achievements in general music
through daily participation and performance.

Extra Credit may be earned throughout the quarter by attending school and area concerts and
recitals. On the next class day the student should then turn in to me programs with parental
verification of the student’s attendance at the musical event. One-half point per extra credit
event will be added to the quarter grade.

*Please note: I have attached the ENCORE calendar for 2010-2011 so that General Music
students are aware of concert dates. Not only is this an extra credit opportunity, but also an
opportunity to support your fellow classmates in their musical endeavors!

General Music Classroom Procedures & Expectations

Be physically and mentally prepared for class:
● Be in your seat with your folder, pencil, and agenda before class starts
● Approach class activities with optimism, enthusiasm, determination, and your
whole-hearted attention.

Be respectful of “yours, theirs, and ours”:

● You are a member of a team; you must cooperate to work as a whole.
● Treat others as you would like to be treated, especially when singing or playing by
yourself or in small groups.

Remember…
● Use your folder and store it properly.
● Respect the music equipment—this includes the instruments, computers,
keyboards, piano, and audio/visual equipment—do not touch any of these things
without permission from Ms. Glass!

Be an active participant in the music-making process:

● Absorb all the knowledge you can during class in order to better yourself as a
member of your group.
● Your ideas are unique and valuable—share them!
● No question is a bad question—no one knows everything all of the time!
Practice self-discipline:
● Act in a responsible manner—class time is limited and valuable!
● When working in groups or individually, be aware of how your attitude affects the
class environment.

Leave all gum, food, and drink (other than water) outside the classroom.

Blatantly disregarding these expectations will lead to:

1. A warning & possible reduction of daily participation points
2. Sent to Refocus & possible Recess referral
3. A call home
4. Ms. Glass contacting Ms. Lovette or Ms. McCarty

ENCORE PERFORMANCES 2010-2011 (Extra Credit opportunities!)

Date/Day Time Event

Dec. 14/Tu 7 p.m. 5th, 6th, & 7th Gr. Chorus Concert in MEHMS Cafe

Jan. 6/Th 7 p.m. 7th Gr. Band Concert in MEHMS Cafe

Jan. 10/M 7 p.m. 6th Gr. Band Concert in MEHMS Café

Jan. 11/Tu 7 p.m. 5th Gr. Band Concert in MEHMS Café

Feb. 24, 25. 26/Th,F,Sa 7 p.m. MS Musical in MEHMS Café

Mar. 23 /W 7:30 p.m. FCCPS Pyramid Chorus Concert Grades 3-12 at

GMHS

June 6/M 7 p.m. 5th, 6th, & 7th Gr. Chorus Concert in MEHMS Cafe

June 7 /Tu 7 p.m. 5th & 6th Gr. Band & Jazz Band Concert in MEHMS
Café

June 8 /W 7 p.m. 7th Gr. Band & Jazz Band Concert in MEHMS Café
 MEHMS General Music Information
TO BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED BY September 17, 2010.

The personal information requested will be used by Ms. Glass to contact you only when
necessary regarding specific events or requirements pertaining to your child.

Student Information

Name Grade
Parent/Guardian Information

Parent/Guardian #1
First Last

Home Phone Work Phone

Cell Phone E-mail Address

Parent/Guardian #2
First Last

Home Phone Work Phone

Cell Phone E-mail Address

We have carefully read and understand the information and requirements

included in the General Music Handbook, including the expectations and
procedures, and understand that disregarding them will result in
disciplinary action.

Student Signature Date

Parent/Guardian Signature Date