Student Expectations and Evaluation (Grades)

Student evaluation is based upon a percentage system that weights various course requirements and a wide variety of observable forms of development in music and performance. A student's attendance, behavior and ability to work in a group, personal discipline and organization are also a part of student evaluation. The following outlines particular expectations and the percentage of each item towards the student's grade.

I. SINGING TESTS, MEMORIZATION AND WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS (40% of grade)

Singing/Choreography Tests - Students will be evaluated on an individual basis with regular tests in singing (and choreography in show choirs) that covers all materials and techniques being studied in class. Any number of tests may occur in a quarter, depending on the group’s performance schedule.

Memorization – Music (and choreography for show choirs) must be learned and memorized in a timely fashion. This will be tested as described above.

Projects and Written Assignments - May include written tests or worksheet materials (e.g. music theory). Research projects and other written assignments are also a possibility. Concert reviews and practice records would also be common under this heading.

Performance Tests and Concert Performances - Student performance is the ultimate goal in a performing arts class. Student performances are a venue for student evaluation and assessment. An unexcused absence from an ensemble performance may result in a student grade averaging to an "F" for the quarter grading period.

II. CLASS PARTICIPATION (60% of grade)

This portion of the student's grade is based upon observable behavior. Students must show a continual development in proper singing and dance techniques, as well as musical understanding and application. Students will receive a weekly numerical grade for class participation. The following is a list of some of the other issues covered in this portion of a student’s grade:

• Effort and work ethic
• Attendance (excused if absent or tardy, and not excessive)
• Focus on the task at hand (not talking or otherwise being a distraction to self or others)
• General behavior and interaction with others (e.g., peers, director, substitutes, other adults)
• Preparedness for rehearsal: music (in a black 3-ring binder), pencil, planner, proper attire, etc.

III. FINAL END-OF-YEAR GRADE

Final end-of-year grades are established by a cumulative average of the numeric scores from a student's four quarter grades.

PLEASE NOTE: Students in choral music are expected to participate in all performances related to his or her class. Only personal illness or death in the immediate family are acceptable excuses for missing a program. This also applies to after school rehearsals, except in cases that conflict with other approved school events. All conflicts with rehearsal must be worked out ahead of time, in writing, with the director. Failure to meet these expectations will result in the lowering of a student's grade. Please see the “Attendance, Absence and Tardy Policy” page for a more thorough explanation of these procedures. NOTE: Substance Abuse violations of any kind will result in a negative impact to your grade due to exclusion from activities based on the suspension and expulsion guidelines of Fairfax County Public Schools.

EXAMPLE: DEMONSTRATED "A "

1. Demonstrates superior work in daily rehearsals, and is always prepared with music, pencil, choreography (show choir), dialogue, tech cues, etc. (Includes singing tests).

2. Works always to the best of ability in daily rehearsals to obtain the highest in performance standards.

3. Is able to work effectively with teachers, and classmates. Can work independently, or as a member of a section, as needed. Can function as a leader.

4. Has correct materials at all times (i.e. music, pencil, props, etc.), is on time, and attentive.

5. Always attends after-school rehearsals and performances. Unexcused absences may eliminate the chance of an "A."

6. Fulfills all assignments and requirements of the class.

This is the type of active participation expected for an "A" student, but this is not, in and of itself, the whole of any student's evaluation.

In particular circumstances, both Mr. Cockrell and Mr. Fuchs will have input determining grades.