CHOIR GRADING SYSTEM

Philosophy

Choir members participate in a musical art form that shape individuals from different singing experiences into a single unit.  Individuals’ attitudes and behaviors that promote unity in choir will receive the best grades. 

Principles of Grading

Grades will be earned by participating in rehearsals, performances, and other assignments.  Since choir is a group performing organization, attendance is critical for EVERY rehearsal. Because of illness or other situations, a student may be “excused” from attending class.  An “excused” absence from class still results in a loss of credit for that day.  Since choir is a group effort, missed rehearsal and performance experiences cannot be ‘made up’ as they can in other classes.  A reasonable amount of absences will not affect the students’ grade.  The student is making a commitment to everyone in choir to do their share of the work.  If one student doesn’t do well, the rest of the class cannot do their best.

Implementation

Participation in Rehearsals

There are 8 points per day possible for rehearsal participation.  Points are awarded for:

1.  being on time.(in assigned seat when the tardy bell rings.)      2.  having your music and pencil.     3.  not chewing gum.           4.  participating in classroom learning.  (depending on level of focused participation)

1 pt 1pt 1 pt 0-5 pts

Participation in Performance

All performances are required for every student.  In addition, students are required to wear designated uniform to all concerts.  Students not attending concerts will receive a 0 for the concert missed.  Being tardy to a concert will result in a deduction of concert grade.  A required performance is one that is listed on the choir calendar or one that is added to the calendar at least four weeks prior to the performance.

   *All excused absences require prior notification and will be deemed excused at the                  discretion of the director.

   *Performance points lost due to an excused absence of a performance can be made up.

   *Points lost because of unexcused absences cannot be made up.

   *A performance absence due to a work conflict is UNEXCUSED.

   *A student could fail the class if a performance is missed and the points are not made up.

Participation in Other Assignments

Assignments can include but not be limited to memorization checks, workbooks, quizzes, term and semester exams.  Homework can include scheduled sectional rehearsals, additional rehearsals, and other activities relating to the choral music program.

Grading Scale per semester

Class Participation                40%      

Performance Participation     40%      

Other Assignments*             20%      

                           Total       100%     

Make-Up Policy

All excused rehearsal absences can be made up. Students are required to spend equal time before/after school in order to get rehearsal participation make up credit.  Students must check the rehearsal schedule to see what needs to be worked on for that day.  Written work can be used for make up work at the discretion of the director.

Tardy Policy

In addition to lost participation points,

                A student who is tardy 5 times in a nine-week period will receive a U in citizenship.  A student who is tardy/absent 13 times could lose credit for the class.

Classroom Rules

A student violates classroom rules if he/she:

1.  Is insubordinate (not following teacher’s directions).

2.  Has food or drink in the classroom during class without permission.  (Water bottles are acceptable.)

3.  Uses hair spray, perfumes, makeup or any substances with perfumes in them while in class.

4.  Is verbally or physically abusive to the teacher or other students.  This includes arguing with the teacher when asked to do something.

5.  Disrupts the learning environment by noises, gestures, or other actions.  This includes anything that gets the attention of the teacher or students away from the rehearsal goals.

6.  Has any electronic device, including cell phones, visible at any time without permission.

Consequences for Violating Classroom Rules:

First offense - Detention with Mrs. Balke & Student Action Plan with Parent Signature

Second offense - Administrative Behavior Referral & Parent Notification

Third offense - Administrative Behavior, Request for Behavior Contract, Parent Notification                        & Possible removal from class

Citizenship Grade

To receive an “A” in citizenship, a student must not be written up for violating classroom rules, be at all required performances and demonstrate leadership qualities.  A “U” will be given for violating classroom rules or arriving tardy five or more times, or missing a concert.

If there are any questions about this system please call me at school, (623) 435-6347.