Pre-K
Students in Pre-K receive instruction in Music approximately thirty times a year. The following is the summary of the curriculum covered in this subject area.
Students in Pre-K learn to appreciate music through a variety of objectives each week. They sing, dance, play musical percussion instruments and listen to stories about different genres of music.
Kindergarten
Students in Kindergarten receive instruction in Music approximately thirty times a year. The following is the summary of the curriculum covered in this subject area.
Students will learn to appreciate music through singing a variety of songs, moving to the beat and playing various percussion instruments such as drums, triangles, wood blocks, tambourines, and glockenspiels. Matching pitch and the ability to follow a steady beat are emphasized. Basic music reading is taught through the use of rhythm charts. Preparation for a performance at the annual Christmas show is also stressed.
Grades One to Three
Text –World of Music. Silver Burdett & Ginn, 1990.
Students will learn about music through a continuation of the concepts introduced in kindergarten. There is more in depth study of music reading skills. Mallet techniques for the glockenspiels and Orff instruments are stressed. More emphasis on singing in tune and ensemble playing is stressed. In the third grade the recorder is taught. Each student has their own recorder and book and more advanced music reading skills are learned. This is in preparation for the opportunity to play a band instrument in fourth grade where fine motor coordination and music reading skills are needed. The third graders are also featured in the Christmas show with the performance of the Christmas story as told through song and narration. The first and second graders also participate in the show.
Grades Four to Six
Text—The Music Connection. Silver Burdett & Ginn, 1995.
Master Theory I & II. Kjos Music, 1963.
LMI Recorder Method. 1998.
Students will continue to learn about and appreciate music through a continuation of the skills taught in the earlier grades with more emphasis on music history and listening lessons. More opportunities are given to play the Orff instruments and music theory is taught with assignments given in the theory book which each student receives. The instruments of the orchestra are studied more in depth. The recorder is continued through the end of fourth grade. All students are given the opportunity to participate in the band, choir and chime ensembles.
Grades Seven and Eight
Students continue to learn about music history and appreciation through more in depth listening lessons. More in depth concepts of music theory are taught as well as more intricate accompaniments to songs. There is more use of the chimes, especially when learning about chords and chord progressions. The same performing groups continue to be offered. New to the curriculum in Grades Seven and Eight is introductory guitar on acoustic guitars.
Additional Information
For a description of the Curriculum Guidelines of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, visit the website of the Archdiocese of Phiiadelphia Office of Catholic Education .