MUSIC
It is fantastic to see that some parents have taken me up on the offer of talking with them about their child's music tuition or choosing and instrument. I am still happy to talk to other parents at a mutually suitable time.
Term 3 the upper music classes have focused on aural skills and the lower grades have been focusing on music reading and some aural training. The upper grades focus has been on recognising ¾, 4/4 and 6/8 meters, (rhythms) and the major3, perfect 5th (Pitch ) major triad chords, minor triad chords and suspended triad and the octave when they hear them. The lower grades this term have continued to learn how to read music and a little aural training.
Aural skills help people to create music by ear and learn other people's music by ear. Many cultures to this day create and learn music aurally (without sheet music). Some famous musicians rely purely on aural skills. The lower grades this term have continued to learn how to read music.
I have seen that if I raise the level of expectations the students generally rise to meet them. I was amazed how many prep or foundation students can sight read rhythms that incorporate 1/2, ¼ and 1/8 notes and rests.
Music club is a huge success with the primary grades. Children are literally lining up to play our new drums. Many students enjoy the keyboards. Some choose to read music while others prefer to create their own music by ear.
I have to say that I thank all the girls who gave up their own free time for choir during lunch times. We collectively chose the song and come up with moves in collaboration. It shows how well students can lead as well as follow.
Music lessons is a balance between learning and having fun, I have seen many smiles and heard lots of laughter and big smiles in my classes. I get so much joy teaching music and I believe many, if not all students enjoy learning music. Next term I hope to work towards more instrumental lessons, singing, and music theory and of course, more fun activities.
I hope you have a safe and happy holiday, Mr Webb
Music is fun
Morris Gleitzman
Morris Gleitzman visited our school on Tuesday 30th of August. It was a huge hit with the students! He gave the students great information about story writing and answered our student's wonderings.
Secondary News
English
This week is numeracy and literacy week!
Here are some images of students reading thoughtfully in class and using their dictionaries to look up the meanings of any unfamiliar words.
Encouraging students to read widely, both at home and in school, can help to improve their literacy skills.
Reading can help students in many ways. Some of the many benefits of reading include:
Your local library has many teen fiction novels that can be borrowed for free for several weeks at a time.
So get reading and enjoy!