Changing lesson planning ideas to address the Common Core Learning Standards is presenting new challenges to integrate literacy into the choral music classroom. Many choral music teachers are struggling with the idea of teaching more than they already do. For secondary choral musicians, the Common Core Learning Standards can be approached in a variety of ways; the best ideas will be those that enhance and support the music instruction leading to the best possible cumulative performances that choral musicians desire.
The Common Core Learning Standards have been adopted by forty-five states across America, and are designed to provide a set of benchmarks that students should achieve at each grade level in both literacy and mathematics. In the elementary grades, all teachers are expected to support the acquisition of math and literacy skills across the curriculum. At the secondary level, where most choral musicians work, teachers should be prepared to utilize the set of standards developed for Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science and Technical Subjects. “Just as students must learn to read, write, speak, listen, and use language effectively in a variety of content areas, so too must the Standards specify the literacy skills and understandings required for college and career readiness in multiple disciplines” (www.corestandards.org). These standards are designed so that students are not just “musically literate” and able to read musical symbol systems, but also “literate about music”; in other words, that students can use the appropriate vocabulary and language in order to write and speak about music.
Choral musicians have a unique opportunity to teach some traditional language instruction through the text of their repertoire. However, it is important that choir directors also strive to teach literacy about music. Below are several ideas for literacy assignments that would also help prepare students to become literate about music, while enhancing musical knowledge and performance quality.
{} Describe the vocal quality you hear in this recording using appropriate musical terminology.
{} Evaluate this recording of our performance using appropriate musical terminology?
{} Define these musical terms.
{} Research and write a one paragraph biography of the composer of one of our concert pieces.
(Teachers: use this as program notes for your concerts!)
(The ACDA National Conference is just one of the many benefits of membership in the American Choral Directors Association. Join ACDA today.)
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