Grade Four Music Summary of Learning

Here is what Grade Four students will be learning in Music this year:

In term 1, students are introduced to the recorder, learn basic techniques and explore

the history and composition of the instrument. Students learn the basics of embouchure,

breath control and intonation; they practice rhythmic and notational reading, which

incorporate the use of treble clef staff notation and meter. Self-recording via Seesaw is

used as a practice log, portfolio builder and progress tracker, while in-class playalongs

and interactive notation-reading activities provide an immersive experience and allow

basic elements of musicianship to be absorbed naturally.

In term 2, students participate in the school Christmas concert by singing and learning

choreography as a class ensemble. They apply what they have learned over several

performances, building confidence and stage presence. Additionally, students will

continue to develop their musical skills on the recorder, continuing from term 1.

Exploring more complex rhythms and melodies, students will learn to play in the upper

and lower ranges of the recorder and continue to chart their progress digitally.

In term 3, students continue developing their abilities to read treble clef notation and

rhythmic patterns as well as engaging in more advanced recorder music performance

and techniques. Two part ensemble playing is introduced, as well as more challenging

music at faster tempi, giving opportunities for students to reinforce the basic concepts of

embouchure, breath control and intonation from term 1 using more elaborate tunes as a

vehicle. Using boomwhackers, students play polyphonic/multi-voice melodies, both

classical and popular, to reinforce basic elements of musicianship in an ensemble

setting.