Kelsey Wilhelm Chp 5 9-9-09

Secondary Music
Kelsey Wilhelm
9-9-09

#1
Because of practical limitations of time and energy, it is hard to figure out the skills, present knowledge and information that is worthwhile to teach. It is also hard to discover and put down the proper issues needed to fill a class period. It is also difficult because there are very few guidelines and samples to use as ideas. Most teachers must learn their student’s individual strengths and weaknesses before setting up a plan. (59-60)

#4
Rehearsing a piece does a great deal for an adult or well educated group, but even then, there is no specific learning objective. They do not state a specific educational objective or goal. They are JUST activities and busy work. Simply rehearsing something limits the teacher and students of a specific objective. Yes, by rehearsing you may get across the point of musical ideas by showing and telling them but without the specific goal in mind, it may become distorted or lost all together. Also, rehearsing is not teaching. You must find some relevance to education in the material. You can’t simply pull out music and sing or play it. You must find a way to let the student understand what is going on.
There are many instances in High School music programs that prove that teachers are not teaching but simply rehearsing. There have even been specific objections in this area recently to a teacher who emphasized learning rather than just singing or playing. People argued that the students needed the easy class and the ability to come in, relax, and perform for an easy “A”. The teachers that push the issue and insist that the material be taught rather than just performed are doing many things for their students. They refuse to limit them and help them grow and appreciate music on a deeper level. (59-60)

I was unable to get a copy of a local HS curriculum. I received no response from the teachers I emailed. I did find, though, the North Dakota guide at http://www.dpi.state.nd.us/standard/content/music.pdf. Along with this, I found a book in the library that guides teachers on ideas and goals in the classroom. This book is “Your School Music Program; A Guide to Effective Curriculum Development” [by] Frances M. Andrews. It illustrates good ways and ideas to build your curriculum and lesson plans on.