Gr. 8 / Beginner Concert Band
Course Outline
Welcome to Beginner Band! Congratulations on choosing this life changing course This will prove to be an exciting course where you will be stretched and challenged as an individual and musician. Beginner Band is where the development of the fundamental skills required to play a wind or percussion instrument occurs. Students need have no previous musical experience
There is a SD#73 rental fee of $100.00 for the school year if the student requires an instrument through the school. School owned instruments are limited and students opting to rent this way will have to take what is available. Priority for school instruments will be given to beginner players (i.e. beginner band). An alternative local instrument rental and / or purchase location is LONG & McQUADE located at 955 Lorne Street. Hours of operation are 10-6 p.m., Mon-Sat, 250 828-2234.
All band students are required to attend all scheduled concerts (at least four [winter, festival, spring and one other] throughout the year). Other performances may be planned if enough members are able to attend.
Course Content:
1. Performance and playing skills
2. Musicianship – Theory and Ear Training
3. Composing Music
4. Listening to and Evaluating Music
5. Ensemble Skills – Working Together
6. Posture and Playing Position
7. Care and Maintenance of Your Instrument
8. Great Music and Great Musicians
9. First People’s Principals of Learning (infused within content):
- Learning involves patience and time
- Learning recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge
- Learning involves recognizing the consequences of one’s actions
- Learning requires exploration of one’s identity
- Learning is embedded in memory, history and story
10. Curricular Competency –
Exploring and creating:
Reasoning and reflecting:
Communicating and documenting:
Connecting and expanding:
Evaluation:
Playing tests (OTP’s – Opportunities to Perform):
Written tests and listening assignments:
Projects, Sectionals, etc. :
Home Practice:
Class Contribution & Individual Musicianship @ Concerts:
**Students always have the opportunity to ‘re-do‘ their playing tests (Opportunity to Perform [OTP’s]), until they have achieved a “proficient” rating. Maximum one attempt per day, not during class time (before school, lunch or after school is o.k.). Immediate verbal feedback is always available from Mr. Schill, and can be accessed either privately or publicly based upon a student’s discretion. The below categories are considered when assigning a mark for OTP’s**:
Product: (Technical Aspects)
-correct notes
-intonation (tuning)
-rhythmic accuracy
-tone quality
-phrasing (making a musical sentence) ARTISTIC ASPECT
-musicality (use of dynamics [volume], correct articulations (the approach to playing the ‘note’) ARTISTIC ASPECT
Process:
-depth of musical understanding
-professionalism in the performance
-prior care of instrument (including VOICE)
-has there been sufficient practice before hand, and proper use of rehearsal time in order to prepare for the OTP? This is where the REAL learning takes place!
PROFICIENCY SCALE:
To earn the following marks, you must:
EMERGING=
-forget your instrument/music 2 times or more
-never/barely practice
-never/barely practice complete assignments
-skip class, extra planned rehearsals
DEVELOPING=
-hand everything in
-practice enough ‘just to get by’
-attend all classes / rehearsals (unless excused)
PROFICIENT=
-practice often
-hand in everything, done to the best of your ability
-show leadership and initiative in rehearsals and performances
-develop musical skills to be considered a lead player/vocalist with soloing potential
**Attendance, use of class and rehearsal time will be a factor in evaluation, as this is a performance oriented program.
EXTENDING=
-everything mentioned in ‘proficient’, but at a level that is well beyond the expectations of the course
Materials:
-pencil with eraser brought to every class
-music folder (cardboard one provided by Mr. Schill)
–REED PLAYERS are responsible for providing their own reeds, beginning with the following strengths and recommended brands (Rico Royale, Van Doren or Juno…PLEASE AVOID, if at all possible, purchasing orange box, basic Rico reeds) from Long & McQuade:
Clarinet – 2.5 strength for 3 weeks, then 3.0 until Christmas and 3.5 afterwards
Bass Clarinet – same as clarinet
Alto ,Tenor and Baritone Saxophone – 2.5 strength for 3 weeks, then 3.0 thereafter
Oboe – Medium Soft “Marlin Lesher”, if not available, Carlton
Bassoon – Speak with Mr. Schill
-BRASS PLAYERS – trumpets, euphonium, baritone and tuba players…. please supply your own valve oil (anything but Carleton, and it should state that it is synthetic. Cheap valve oil will only cause problems for your valves. Trombonists, please provide your own slide oil “Slide-o-Mix”…the ABSOLUTE BEST or “Super Slick” slide cream (2nd best).
–Percussionists are required to have a stick bag complete with drum sticks, rubber mallets, and medium timpani mallets. These may be purchased from Mr. Schill directly in September. Cost is $100. They will be ordered form Tapestry Music, in Vancouver.
* these materials must be purchased by students as needed. Talk to Mr. Schill about where to get these accessories.
Parents: Please feel free to contact me with any questions (student progress related or otherwise). Parents / students may always ask me where their mark is currently at.
Contact: jschill@sd73.bc.ca
Grade 9-12 Concert Band
Course Outline
Senior Band is a continuation of the development of the fundamental skills required to play a wind or percussion instrument. Students must have passed Intermediate Band to be eligible for this course, and may be required to perform an audition and write a theory placement quiz.
There is an instrument rental fee of $100.00 for the school year if the student requires an instrument through the school. School owned instruments are limited and students opting to rent this way will have to take what is available. Priority for school instruments will be given to beginner players (i.e. beginner band). Other rental facilities are also available (contact Mr. Schill for information).
All band students are required to attend the 3 scheduled concerts (one in the 1st term, 2 in the second term). Other performances may be planned if enough members are able to attend.
Course Content:
1. Performance and playing skills
2. Musicianship – Theory and Ear Training
3. Composing Music
4. Listening to and Evaluating Music
5. Ensemble Skills – Working Together
6. Posture and Playing Position
7. Care and Maintenance of Your Instrument
8. Great Music and Great Musicians
9. First People’s Principals of Learning (infused within content):
- Learning involves patience and time
- Learning recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge
- Learning involves recognizing the consequences of one’s actions
- Learning requires exploration of one’s identity
- Learning is embedded in memory, history and story
10. Curricular Competency –
Exploring and creating:
Reasoning and reflecting:
Communicating and documenting:
Connecting and expanding:
Evaluation:
Playing tests:
Written tests and listening assignments:
Projects, Sectionals, etc.
Home Practice:
Class Contribution:
Concerts:
**Students always have the opportunity to ‘redo‘ their playing tests (Opportunity to Perform [OTP’s]), until they have achieved a “proficient” rating. Maximum one attempt per day, not during class time (before school, lunch or after school is o.k.). Immediate verbal feedback is always available from Mr. Schill, and can be accessed either privately or publicly based upon a student’s discretion. The below categories are considered when assigning a mark for OTP’s**:
Product: (Technical Aspects)
-correct notes
-intonation (tuning)
-rhythmic accuracy
-tone quality
-phrasing (making a musical sentence) ARTISTIC ASPECT
-musicality (use of dynamics [volume], correct articulations (the approach to playing the ‘note’) ARTISTIC ASPECT
Process:
-depth of musical understanding
-professionalism in the performance
-prior care of instrument (including VOICE)
-has there been sufficient practice before hand, and proper use of rehearsal time in order to prepare for the OTP? This is where the REAL learning takes place!
cont.
PROFICIENCY SCALE:
To earn the following marks, you must:
EMERGING=
-forget your instrument/music 2 times or more
-never/barely practice
-never/barely practice complete assignments
-skip class, extra planned rehearsals
DEVELOPING=
-hand everything in
-practice enough ‘just to get by’
-attend all classes / rehearsals (unless excused)
PROFICIENT=
-practice often
-hand in everything, done to the best of your ability
-show leadership and initiative in rehearsals and performances
-develop musical skills to be considered a lead player/vocalist with soloing potential
**Attendance , use of class and rehearsal time will be a factor in evaluation, as this is a performance oriented program.
EXTENDING=
-everything mentioned in ‘proficient’, but at a level that is well beyond the expectations of the course
Students in Grades 10-12 will be assessed with percentages, translating into letter grades as follows:
A = 86-100% B = 73-85% C+ = 67-72% C = 60-66% C- = 50-59%
Materials:
-pencil with eraser brought to every class
-small binder or duo-tang for project work
-music folder (instrumental size)
-all accessories for instrument *; e.g. reeds (min. 3 good ones), oils, cleaning materials, etc.
-percussionists are required to have a stick bag complete with drum sticks, rubber mallets, and medium timpani mallets
* these materials must be purchased by students as needed. Talk to Mr. Schill about where to get these accessories.
Parents: Please feel free to contact me with any questions (student progress related or otherwise). Parents / students may always ask me where their mark is currently at.
Contact: jschill@sd73.bc.ca
Brocklehurst Middle School
Choir:
Course Outline
Mr. Schill
(250) 376-1232
Welcome to the Brocklehurst Middle Music Department! In choosing to join choir you have opened the door to all kinds of valuable experiences: teamwork, creativity, self-expression and hard work.
You have also committed to a learning experience which may help you succeed in other aspects of life. Studies show that music students often achieve better grades in other school subjects than non-music students; they may be more creative, outgoing and adaptable to new situations. These attributes are highly valued in today’s job market. To be blunt, MUSIC MAKES YOU SMART!
Assessment:
1 Proper Rehearsal Technique
2 Performance(s) [i.e. all concerts]
3 Opportunities to Perform (OTP’s)
Assessment/Evaluation
Evaluation in choir happens on a daily basis and often includes student self-evaluation and peer-evaluation on projects. There will also be opportunities for formal evaluation in the form of vocal tests, written quizzes and/or practice records. At all times, evaluation shall be carried out in the spirit of learning, respect and helping the young singer be the very best he/she can be.
**Students always have the opportunity to ‘redo‘ their singing tests (Opportunity to Perform [OTP’s]), until they have achieved a “proficient” rating. Maximum one attempt per day, not during class time (before school, lunch or after school is o.k.). Immediate verbal feedback is always available from Mr. Schill, and can be accessed either privately or publicly based upon a student’s discretion. The below categories are considered when assigning a mark for OTP’s**:
Product: (Technical Aspects)
-correct notes
-intonation (tuning)
-rhythmic accuracy
-tone quality
-phrasing (making a musical sentence) ARTISTIC ASPECT
-musicality (use of dynamics [volume], correct articulations (the approach to playing the ‘note’) ARTISTIC ASPECT
Process:
-depth of musical understanding
-professionalism in the performance
-prior care of instrument (including VOICE)
-has there been sufficient practice before hand, and proper use of rehearsal time in order to prepare for the OTP? This is where the REAL learning takes place!
PROFICIENCY SCALE for Grade 8 & 9 Students:
To earn the following marks, you must:
EMERGING=
-forget your instrument/music 2 times or more
-never/barely practice
-never/barely practice complete assignments
-skip class, extra planned rehearsals
DEVELOPING=
-hand everything in
-practice enough ‘just to get by’
-attend all classes / rehearsals (unless excused)
PROFICIENCY=
-practice often
-hand in everything, done to the best of your ability
-show leadership and initiative in rehearsals and performances
-develop musical skills to be considered a lead player/vocalist with soloing potential
**Attendance , use of class and rehearsal time will be a factor in evaluation, as this is a performance oriented program.
EXTENDING=
-everything mentioned in ‘proficient’, but at a level that is well beyond the expectations of the course
Students will often self-assess, and evaluation may be based on concert preparation and performance, music theory assignments, music theory quizzes and tests, focused listening assignments, rehearsal skills marks, and any other assignments pertaining to our study. A cumulative average will be followed when calculating student grades for seniors in grades 10-12:
A = 86-100% B = 73-85% C+ = 67-72% C = 60-66% C- = 50-59%
Parents: Please feel free to contact me with any questions (student progress related or otherwise). Parents / students may always ask me where their mark is currently at.
Contact: jschill@sd73.bc.ca
Course Content Each Term:
Choir students will, first and foremost, learn and reinforce daily the basics of strong choral technique: breath support, diction, intonation and blend. Theory and site reading fundamentals will also be taught to ensure every singer is a literate musician. A survey of choral styles will be sung including madrigals, motets, gospel, jazz and contemporary. Finally, students will have opportunities to listen to fine choral ensembles and deepen their understanding of repertoire and the history of choral singing.
First People’s Principals of Learning (infused within content):
- Learning involves patience and time
- Learning recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge
- Learning involves recognizing the consequences of one’s actions
- Learning requires exploration of one’s identity
- Learning is embedded in memory, history and story
Materials Required
-
A music folder (with your music inside [kept in good condition])
-
Pencil
-
Water bottle with closed lid (squeeze top)
______________________________________________________________________
Bonus Marks: Bonus marks may be allotted to students who have exceeded course requirements and contribute to the program in meaningful ways. Extra practice, participation in extra music functions and voice tutoring are examples. Opportunities to earn bonus marks will be discussed as they arise.
HAPPY SINGING
————————————————————————————————————————–
Teacher Assistant for Band Classes
Course Outline
Welcome to Teacher Assistance for Band Class! Congratulations on choosing this life changing course. This will prove to be an exciting course where you will be stretched and challenged as an individual, and musician. Middle School band is where the development of the fundamental skills required to play a wind or percussion instrument occurs.
T.A.’s are required to attend all scheduled concerts (at least four [winter, festival, spring and one other] throughout the year). Other performances may be planned if enough members are able to attend.
Course Content:
Assisting Mr. Schill with improving student performance in the following areas:
- Performance and playing skills
- Musicianship – Theory and Ear Training
- Composing Music
- Listening to and Evaluating Music
- Ensemble Skills – Working Together
- Posture and Playing Position
- Care and Maintenance of Your Instrument
- Great Music and Great Musicians
- First People’s Principals of Learning (infused within content):
- Learning involves patience and time
- Learning recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge
- Learning involves recognizing the consequences of one’s actions
- Learning requires exploration of one’s identitLearning is embedded in memory, history and story
Product: (Technical Aspects)
-correct notes
-intonation (tuning)
-rhythmic accuracy
-tone quality
-phrasing (making a musical sentence)
ARTISTIC ASPECT:
-musicality (use of dynamics [volume], correct articulations (the approach to playing the ‘note’)
Process:
-depth of musical understanding
-has there been sufficient practice beforehand, and proper use of rehearsal time in order to prepare for the OTP? This is where the REAL learning takes place!
T.A. Evaluation:
Leading sectionals:
Leading Class Warm-ups / Basic Conducting
Individual Tutorial for Students who Require Extra Assistance During and Outside of Class Time
Supervising Proper Set-up and Clean-up Procedures for Class Members
Maintenance & Organization of Repertoire & Supplies
————————————————————————————————————————–
PROFICIENCY SCALE:
To earn the following proficiency rating, please see the below descriptors:
EMERGING=
-arrive late to class
-not yet able to play all the parts of required in pieces on your main instrument
-never/barely practice or complete tasks as assigned by Mr. Schill
-skip class, extra planned rehearsals, concerts
DEVELOPING=
-arrive ‘just’ on time for each class
-assist ‘just’ enough to get by i.e. Always waiting to be asked to do something, as opposed to finding someone, or something to assist with
-attend all classes / rehearsals (unless excused)
PROFICIENT=
-practice often
-complete all tasks to the best of your ability
-show leadership and initiative in in all aspects of your responsibilities
-develop musical skills to be considered a lead player/vocalist with soloing potential
EXTENDING=
-everything mentioned in ‘proficient’, but at a level that is well beyond the expectations of the course
-you are working hard to perhaps learn to become a music teacher!
————————————————————————————————————————–
MATERIALS:
-pencil with eraser brought to every class
-small binder or duo-tang for project work
-music folder (instrumental size)
-all accessories for your main instrument *; e.g. reeds (min. 3 good ones), oils, cleaning materials, etc.
-if you are a percussionist, you are required to have a stick bag complete with drum sticks, rubber mallets, yarn mallets, and medium timpani mallets
* these materials must be purchased by students as needed. Talk to Mr. Schill about where to get these accessories.
Parents: Please feel free to contact me with any questions (student progress related or otherwise). Parents / students may always ask me where their mark is currently at.
Contact: jschill@sd73.bc.ca
BROCK Jazz Band Course Outline 2024/25
Mr. Schill jschill@sd73.bc.ca
Classes: 7-8:20 am Tues/Thurs
Jazz Band is a performance-based course made up of skilled musicians whose dedication goes above and beyond. Registration in the course is by teacher permission only, as students must have a high skill level in order to participate. Students must also be dedicated to early-morning class, and travel, as the Jazz Band will be attending out-of-town festivals and performances.
Our BC curriculum refers to Big Ideas!
Students are expected to understand and give examples of these by the end of the course.
Big Ideas!
- Identity is explored, expressed, and impacted through music experiences.
- Music provides opportunities to gain insight into perspectives and experiences of people from a variety of times, places, and cultures.
- Collaborative music experiences can build community and nurture relationships with others.
- Music uses a unique sensory language for creating and communicating.
Course Objectives!
To provide students with opportunities to improve the following core competencies through musical instruction pedagogies that honour The First Peoples Principles of Learning and support holistic, connected, and meaningful education to all students.
- Communication
- Creative Thinking
- Critical Thinking
- Positive Personal and Cultural Identity
- Personal Awareness and Responsibility
- Social Awareness and Responsibility
Jazz Band Google Classroom Code: krb4e6v
Display (for information sharing only/ students are to join and check often)
Evaluation:
Students will often self-assess, and evaluation may be based on concert preparation and performance, music theory assignments, music theory quizzes and tests, focused listening assignments, rehearsal skills marks, and any other assignments pertaining to our study. A cumulative average will be followed when calculating student grades for seniors:
A = 86-100% B = 73-85% C+ = 67-72% C = 60-66% C- = 50-59%
Evaluation will be based on the Provincial Proficiency Scale for junior students (grades 8&9).
Emerging (very limited understanding), Developing (partial understanding),
Proficient (complete understanding), Extending (sophisticated understanding)
As per the 2023 K-12 Reporting Order, descriptive and strength-based feedback will be provided on formal reports to acknowledge academic achievement (juniors) and effort level (juniors and seniors).
Course Assistance!
If students require extra assistance, I am available upon request. Our senior students (i.e. section leaders) often assist other musicians as well. Rehearsal rooms are almost always open at lunchtime for students who require the practice space as well. Of course, students can often practice during STRONG (on Wednesdays).
Course Expectations!
Class Materials
- instrument and supplies
- pencil and paper
- music folder with lined paper (folders will be handed out)
- spill-proof water bottle for rehearsal (full upon arrival to class)
- Reed players must start with a box of reeds that can be purchased at Long and McQuade (beginner clarinet players should start on #3’s and beginner saxophone players should start on 2’s. Please do not purchase any reeds that are marked with lower numbers. Reed players should start with a full box and always try to keep at least 4 good reeds on hand at all times. If a student gets down to the last few, a new box will need to be purchased.
Basics
- be respectful and polite
- be prepared to work together, offer to help others within your section if they are struggling
- brass students, use the plastic-lined wastebasket in the instrument storage room for condensation clean up, or feel free to empty on the grass outside the door
- label instrument folder and music case (zip strap and tag or put your name on a piece of masking tape)
- Bring your instrument and supplies to every class unless otherwise specified. If you are not prepared, this will result in a lowered rehearsal skills mark.
- If a student is unable to play due to injury, they should still bring their instrument for fingerings if they are physically capable. A note will be required either way.
- Students who forget their instrument will need to help take care of other responsibilities in the classroom. Rehearsal marks will be deducted for that class.
Rehearsal Set-up
- set up stand & chair first, then instrument
- cases and spill-proof water bottles will be stored under chairs (cases need to be accessed for supplies during rehearsal)
- If you have a backpack, please leave it in your locker, or hang it on the back of your chair.
- If cases don’t fit, store them at the back and sides of the classroom up against a wall that you can easily access
Rehearsal Pack-up
- NO PLAYING ONCE SIGNAL IS GIVEN FOR PACK-UP
- wash mouthpieces that can be washed regularly, use the sink in back room
- instruments away first, then pack-up stand and chair (we may decide to leave them out on certain days, I will let you know)
- store instruments on the shelves in the back room on the properly marked shelves or take them home, do NOT leave them on the floor or anywhere else please. Our band room is a community space, which means that outside user groups use the space as well. Do not leave personal belongings in the main area once the school day is complete.
Concert Expectations (Unexcused Absences at concerts will result in loss of marks)
Concert Dress Code:
- band uniform top provided
- student provides: black bottoms and black shoes
- NO jeans or shorts, Full length pants or skirts only
Code of Conduct:
- be on best behaviour
- follow instructions carefully
- all students must participate in concert set-up and pack-up and stay for the duration of the show
Showcase Performances (December and June)
These big performances take place twice per year (December and June) in the Sagebrush Theatre. Concerts are admission by donation in order to help cover the cost of the theatre rental and help with the department’s operating costs. Students are expected to be available in the afternoon and evening. The dates are Tues. Dec. 17th and Tues. June 10th. Concert dates are booked a full year in advance, so please make arrangements to reschedule any activities that might take place on those days.
Let’s get started!
Students, I know that many of you already have your own instruments, but if you still need one, I encourage you to rent from a reputable company like Long & McQuade, as they have good quality instruments. You can also rent from our school if we have a suitable instrument for you. Please try to find one quickly though, as we will begin full rehearsals within the first few days of school.
If you would like to rent from our school:
- An instrument and rental form will be sent home shortly. Please fill it out. Signatures are required.
- Return the white copy to the music teacher and keep the yellow copy for your records. The rental fee is $50 per semester and will be billed through the office along with student fees. Do not send cheques or cash to school for instrument rental unless utilizing MySchoolCASH is unfeasible.
*Renting an SD73 instrument means that the student will be responsible for any damage above and beyond regular wear and tear, and the instrument will be logged through the district library system. Any instruments not returned will be charged to that student for its replacement fee.
————————————————————————————————————————–
Guitar 10- 12
Mr. Schill Music Room
Email: jschil@sd73.bc.ca
Welcome to Guitar!
Guitar is a course within the Arts Education realm that allows for students to explore music by learning the guitar. We will explore a variety of content by using acoustic guitars. You will learn the basic technique of chord playing if you are a beginner, and more advanced techniques for the more advanced guitarists. Not only will you gain a better understanding of chords, chord structure in a song, and how to read chords, but you will also learn some basic note reading and tablature reading. We will focus on developing proper, healthy technique while having fun and playing well-known tunes from yesterday and today. There will be a final performance project in this course that will take place during the end of the semester.
Guitar 10 : COURSE OBJECTIVE AND BIG IDEAS
- Individual and collective expression is rooted in history, culture, and community.
- Growth as a musician requires perseverance, resilience, and reflection.
- Music is a process that relies on the interplay of the senses.
- Aesthetic experiences have the power to transform the way we think and feel.
- Music offers unique ways of exploring our identity and sense of belonging.
Guitar 11 : COURSE OBJECTIVE AND BIG IDEAS
- Music reflects aspects of time, place, and community.
- The nuances of music are understood through deeper study and performance.
- A musician’s interpretation of existing work is an opportunity to represent identity and culture.
- Enduring understanding of music is gained through perseverance, resilience, and risk taking.
- Instrumental music offers aesthetic experiences that can transform our perspective.
Guitar 12 : COURSE OBJECTIVE AND BIG IDEAS
- Music communicates traditions, perspectives, worldviews, and stories.
- Creative and technical proficiency in music is transferable across different aspects of our lives.
- Music can be adapted to facilitate limitless expression and meaning.
- Purposeful choices enhance the quality,artistry, and authenticity of musical processes.
- Instrumental music offers aesthetic experiences that can transform our perspective.
Learning Standards:
Please visit the following websites for more information regarding the Currricular Competencies and the Content of the courses:
Instrumental Music 9: https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/arts-education/9/music
Instrumental Music 10: https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/arts-education/10/instrumental-music
Instrumental Music 11: https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/arts-education/11/instrumental-music
Instrumental Music 12: https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/arts-education/12/instrumental-music
Materials:
- Guitar (you may either bring your own or you may borrow from the school)
- Binder with paper
- Pencils and eraser
- Water bottle
- Guitar duotangs (provided – MUST be left at school)
Along with Curricular Competencies and Content, student learning will involve understanding, and reflecting on the Core Competencies as they pertain to music.
Assessment and Grading:
Throughout the course, you will be evaluated on your ability to follow curricular competencies and the completion of your Final Performance Project.
Classroom Expectations:
- Attendance. Due to the nature of the course, many of our classes will involve activities that will not be accessible outside of the classroom. This is very much a hands-on course that requires you to be in your seat for proper evaluation. Vacations, trips, etc., are not suggested during this time. As there will be little use of texts and much interaction and discussion, missing classes will be a challenge.
- Promptness. Being on time to class is a matter of respect. Students are invited to be prepared for class when the second bell goes. 1 late = warning, 2 lates = detention, 3 lates = parent contact. If lates persist beyond the 3 strikes, you will be referred to administration. If you are late for a valid reason, make sure to have a written note/email.
- Behaviour. It is my expectation that students in my class understand the importance of a classroom based on respect. Respect yourself, your peers, the classroom, and the teacher at all times. The learning environment of the classroom is based on the shared understanding of respect, tolerance, teamwork, and empathy.
Please do not touch anything that does not belong to you. There is a lot of very expensive equipment in this classroom and you will be responsible for repairing it should you break it because you were acting inappropriately.
Think of these song lyrics:
- RESPECT – Yourself, Teacher, Materials, Classmates
- Stop, Collaborate, and Listen – When your teacher and classmates are talking
- Don’t Stop Believing – Never give up!
- Are You Ready For It? – Come prepared for class
- We’re All in This Together – Work as a team
- Can’t Touch This – If it doesn’t belong to you, don’t touch it!
- Effort. Students are expected to do their best to further the learning happening in class. At the very least, students are expected to not detract from the learning happening for others.
- Academics. In order to be successful, students should work to complete their assignments on time, to contribute to class discussions, and use the class as a chance to grow.
- Washroom Breaks. Only one student is allowed to go to the washroom at a time. Students must utilize the hall pass, and cell phones are not permitted to be taken with you.
- Food and Beverage. After numerous spills, disasters, and a couple of friendly mice taking up residence in the Music Room, I have decided there is to be no food in the Music Room (unless it is for medical purposes). You may bring a water bottle (or any bottle that is resealable); however, open cups, cans, non-resealing bottles, etc. are not permitted. Make sure that you eat or drink all your meals and snacks prior to coming to this class. Be mindful of what you purchase at long break (i.e. do not buy a slushie if you have this class right after long break, you will never finish it in time). Students who do not comply with the food and beverage guidelines will be asked to throw out their food or leave it in the front room until class is done.
- Technology. In this class students will be using technology in the form of Chromebooks or school computers. Please treat them appropriately. All students are expected to conform to school expectations of on-line behaviour and technological responsibility.
- Cell phones/tablets etc. Please see attached sheets for cell phone policy.
Assignments: You will be given sufficient class time to complete assignments. As long as you use your time wisely, you may not have homework for this class. If you do not complete your work in class, it is up to you to finish it and hand it in ON THE DUE DATE.
Absences and Late Work: Attendance is mandatory. Absences and tardiness create gaps in student learning which frequently affect grades and understanding. If you are ill or missing school for some other reason, you are STILL responsible for the missed work.
I REPEAT – You are responsible for any missed work. Any major assignment missed must be completed. There are a variety of ways to ensure this happens; all revolve around your own responsibility and ability to communicate. You can:
- Ask a friend in the class (use your social media for good!)
- Come speak with me in the morning, at lunch, or after class
- Check Google classroom for the day(s) you were away (k4ao6aa)
If you are absent or late and not excused, this counts against your effort mark and I will assume you are skipping. If you are absent and excused, you will be expected to hand in any assignments or work due the day you return.
Concerts and Performances
Attendance at concerts and performances is mandatory. Dates for concerts will be given with as much notice as possible. Concerts are the equivalent of an exam. There are no alternate concert/exam dates. Missing a concert should only happen in the most serious of circumstances.
Cell Phone Policy:
As a teacher, it is my responsibility to provide a high quality learning environment for ALL students. As per provincial law, cell phones (etc) are not a part of this. I provide a dynamic learning environment by facilitating hands-on experiences, activities, and discussions. Distractions, such as cell phones, are detrimental to this learning environment. Cell phones must be left in a student’s locker or placed in the Phone Hang Out in the classroom for the duration of the time the student’s are in the classroom. In the case of an emergency, please call the office at 250-376-1232, and office staff will get in contact with me immediately.
If this policy is broken, the Three Strike Rule will be instituted:
First Strike: Reminder about the cell phone expectations – phone MUST be placed in the Phone Hang Out, or preferably NOT brought to class.
Second Strike: Reminder about the cell phone policy, and Ms Bisson will phone your parents to reiterate the cell phone policy expectations – phone MUST be placed in the Phone Hang Out, or preferably NOT brought to class.
Third Strike: Reminder about the cell phone policy, and an immediate referral to the Principal for defiance and non-compliance – phone MUST be relinquished to the office for the remainder of the school day
Please sign below to acknowledge you have read the course outline with your Parents/Guardians:
I have read the course outline, including all the classroom expectations and cell phone policy, and agree to do my best to meet these expectations while in Mr. Schill’s class.
____________________________________ ________________________________
Student Name Student Signature
I have read the course outline, including all classroom expectations and cell phone policy, and agree to support my child in meeting these expectations while in Mr. Schill’s class.
_____________________________________ ________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name(s) Parent/Guardian Signature(s)