INTRODUCTION

In recent years exciting changes have taken place in the approach to music in Scottish Secondary Schools. In addition to the traditional activity of singing, it is just as likely that you will find classes playing an arrangement using acoustic guitar, electronic lead and bass guitar, drumkit and electronic keyboard.

THE COURSE

Through practical involvement in music, the Standard Grade Music course aims to enrich the lives of pupils of all levels of ability by developing the skills and insights which are part of the full enjoyment of music. Each school designs its own course, following national guidelines and taking the particular interests of individual pupils into account.

  All pupils play music, both on their own and in groups. They are involved in the inventing activities of composing, arranging and improvising. In addition, they are encouraged to listen throughout the course to recorded and live music produced by themselves and others and to be aware and knowledgeable in ethnic origin and culture.

ASSESSMENT AND CERTIFICATION

Assessment is intended to take into account the standards attainable in the classroom . Pupils are required to perform on two instruments , one solo and one in a group, providing breadth and variety in the course, for all levels of ability.

Work is assessed on performance in the following course elements:

Solo Performing

Group Performing

Inventing

Listening

Solo Performing is assessed by a visiting examiner

Group Performing and Inventing are assessed by the class teacher with assessment standards checked by the Scottish Qualifications Authority.

Listening is assessed by a written paper and marked by the SQA, based on the playing of a tape recording.

Question papers are offered at three levels: Foundation, General and Credit. Pupils normally attempt the questions at the two levels best suited to their ability as shown in the class. Some pupils may be advised to attempt the questions at Foundation Level only.

On the certificate, an overall award on a scale of 7 to 1 is shown, 1 being the top of the scale. A profile of performance is also provided showing the award for each element of the subject.