What I Learned From the Band Exam . . . . .

I spent a healthy amount of time last week reading student responses to two essay questions on the midterm exam.  Of the two questions, the second gave me much insight.  In the essay prompt, students were asked to name and discuss two areas in their playing they would like to improve in the second half of the school year.

Can you guess what over half the students discussed in their essay?

Overwhelmingly, students wrote about improving their work ethic and their ability to practice and get better on their own.

I know, right?  Who could have guessed?

So, in an effort to assist students in their goals, we are going to be using practice charts during the third grading period.  It is my belief that there are quite a few students who spend some amount of time practicing their instrument outside of our band rehearsals.  However, is that time being used effectively?  Are students using this time productively?

If you follow this link and click on the Practice Information folder, you will see information the students received this past week in class.  Our practice goal is for each student to create four, thirty minute practice sessions over a two week period of time.  My hope is that this allows students flexibility in managing their time.  (For example, they could practice only on the weekends.  Or, they can come down to band during I/E two times a week.  Or maybe a combination of both.  Whatever works best.)

Practice charts will be due every two weeks.  Students will earn ten points for each practice session chart completed, the goal being to earn full credit (40 points) every two weeks.   If a student is only able to complete three sessions, that is okay.  Still turn the practice charts in for partial credit.  No practice session will be counted for credit without a parent signature.

The practice charts will be included in the formative (or 10%) part of the grade.  Not completing them will not significantly impact a student's grade, however it is unlikely that a student will be able to earn an 'A' without completing them.

In addition to the practice chart itself, I also gave the students suggestions on how to structure their practice time and how to practice, especially on a difficult passage of music.  I am hopeful these tools will not only help the students grow and mature in their musicianship, but also their independence as young students.

As always, please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns. :-)