Lisnagarvey High School

Staff

Miss M McKitterick (Head of Department)

Departmental Aim

The Music Department enables pupils to
 

• develop an understanding and appreciation of a wide range of musical styles.
• acquire the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to make music and to progress to further study.
• participate and play a full part in all of the extra-curricular musical activities in school.
• foster a life-long interest and enjoyment of music.

An Overview of Key Stage 3 Curriculum

The aim of the department is to plan and implement a curriculum which promotes continuity, coherence and progression within the study of music. It reflects the key experiences of a musical education – making and responding to music. These experiences are placed with the context of three integrated areas of musical activity: composing, performing and listening. Pupils of all ability levels are catered for. New innovations are explored and implemented into the curriculum, in order to make the pupils’ experience more relative to their perception of it in society and to enhance the delivery of what is being taught. Continuous assessment is used to monitor the achievements of each pupil. Regular feedback is given to both parents and pupils as to what progress is being made in all areas of the subject.


 

An Overview of Key Stage 4 Curriculum

Course Content

Pupils will be required to investigate three areas of study during the two year GCSE course;

• Music for Celebration
• Musical Arrangements
• Musical Traditions in Ireland

All activities, whether they involve composing, performing or listening will be linked to these three areas of study.

 

Coursework %

Coursework is worth 40% of the final grade.

• Pupils will have to submit a folio consisting of two compositions, at least one of which is linked to a chosen area of study.
• Each composition must be accompanied by a written commentary.

Exam Structure

Performing: 35% of the final grade.

• Pupils will have to perform as an accompanied/unaccompanied soloist.
• Pupils will have to perform an independent part as a member of an ensemble/band.
• Pupils will have to answer questions by the visiting examiner about their performance.

Listening: 25% of the final grade.

• This exam will last for one hour and will consist of up to eight questions based on both familiar and unfamiliar music.

Departmental Facilities and Resources

The Music department consists of a classroom and three practice rooms. A wide range of acoustic and electronic equipment is available for use by the pupils.