Summative grades: generally one to four tests per week except prior to performances. Tests will be graded 0-100. Anything less than 70 will be retested, however any test may be retaken for a maximum grade of 95. The original grade will be replaced by the new grade, even if it is a lower grade. If a test grade is less than 70, the student should redo the assignment again (or as many times as necessary until passed). Any assignments which are not completed by the end of the six week cycle will be recorded as a zero. (Remember, all tests should be passed by the end of the six weeks; it will be the student's responsibility to replay performance tests or written tests outside of class time.) Concerts, contests and public performances are considered major test grades (see #3).

Formative grades: daily rehearsal habits, written definitions, rhythm diagram work sheets, or other types of work sheets, short music excerpts prior to a major playing test, and daily at-home practice habits. This is not intended to be all inclusive.

Summative grades will count 60% and formative grades 40%.

2. HONOR BAND MEMBERS: are attentive without talking, not disruptive, play on instruments at the proper times, always have horn (working properly), music, pencil, extra good reeds, sticks (percussion), mouthpieces, and are never tardy.

3. ABSENCE FROM PERFORMANCE: This can be excused with no penalty if the absence is due to a family emergency or serious illness. Other excuses cannot be accepted. The student (unexcused) will be removed from the band on a temporary (or possibly permanent) basis. This is the most serious infraction since a band depends upon every individual to carry his portion of the load and support the entire group. Any absence should be cleared as quickly as possible. (Absence due to No Pass/No Play is excused. However, students who fail a subject at the six weeks should check with the band directors to see if he is eligible----restrictions do NOT apply in all cases.)

ADDENDUM A - TAPE TESTING

At various times of the year, tape testing will be utilized more often than "live" testing. Tape testing will be done one of two ways: (1) short tests (up to eight measures) will be taped during class (short tests may be taped each class) and (2) long tests (16+ measures) will be taped at home (maximum of one test per week with no other testing during the week). Retest may be taped at school or home (or possibly played "in person" if time permits). If a student does not have access to a tape recorder, he may use one at school.

Symphonic Band members attend weekly sectionals and have frequent playing tests. These students perform more often are expected to be prepared to the best of their ability. Consistent practice is an important attribute of these members. Symphonic members may keep a practice record.  Some individuals will be placed on a practice record if necessary.

Concert Band members attend weekly sectionals and have frequent playing tests. This group is a competing organization.  Students are expected to be prepared to the best of their ability. Consistent practice is an important attribute of these members. Concert members may keep a practice record.  Some individuals will be placed on a practice record if necessary.

Cadet Band curriculum is slightly different from concert band.  Members who are not performing up to expectations will be asked to keep a daily practice record.

Practice outside of band time is important to the success of the student. The minimum amount of daily practice time is 25 minutes. Below is more detailed information about the practice report requirement.    

The minimum time requirement does not have to be done at one time (especially when first learning to play an instrument. Short frequent practice sessions make for a good beginning.)

NOTE: Each student should have clear identification on the outside of their instrument. A luggage tag or masking tape works well. Labels will be printed for students at school within two weeks. If your name tag comes off you should replace it as soon as possible. (Percussionists should keep their sticks in a stick bag and NEVER leave it at school.)

I DON'T KNOW WHAT I GOT
POSTED GRADES

Student’s grades are posted on the bulletin board or the wall next to it. Portions of the area will be marked off for each group. Students are encouraged to frequently check their grades and retake every test where a low grade is recorded. Any test may be retaken as many times as necessary for a maximum grade of 95. These retakes (or makeup) must, however, be completed before the end of the six weeks grading period.