New sequence begins Tuesday, October 6, 2026 · all sections
Read the music. Understand the choices.
Build the reading, rhythm, listening, and creative skills that support orchestra, band, and choir. Practice with scores, pencil, voice, and body percussion; no instruments or notation software are required.
Use labeled staff and rhythm models, a focused pitch range, worked examples, and short response prompts. Build independence as the shared skills become secure.
Schedule: Maroon days · periods 3, 4, and 6 · 84 meetings.
1
Open today's date
Start with the calendar plan for this class meeting.
2
Work the numbered plan
Move independently from the goal to the checkpoint.
3
Show the process
Save research, drafts, feedback, and reflection.
4
Turn it in
Submit evidence through Google Classroom.
Our class community
Built with students. Used in every class.
The opening meetings protect time to learn names and introduce one another, then gather every student's ideas and decide together what respectful, safe, and productive learning looks and sounds like.
Use preferred names, add a pronunciation cue if helpful, and share one course connection so every student can enter the room as a known person.
02
Respond privately first
Use the form to answer four questions about how the teacher, peers, and students should treat one another. Every student gets an individual voice before the whole-class discussion begins.
03
Synthesize + decide together
The class clusters ideas, makes broad values observable, and chooses four to six agreements written as specific “We…” actions.
04
Use, repair + revisit
Keep the agreements visible during discussion, feedback, tool sharing, device use, and cleanup. Revisit them after two weeks and at each quarter transition when the class wants a change.
The student plan is the main lesson. Most days protect independent creating, testing, and reflection; community-building, critique, safety, and conferences stay intentionally facilitated.
Grade 6 · Maroon daysAugust 2026
SunMonTueWedThuFriSat
Class plan TodayOnly this section's class dates are shown.
Thursday, August 20, 2026Quarter 1 · How Music Moves Us
AInvestigating
Soundtrack of Me
Welcome to Music Explorations + Agreement preview
Today’s 45-minute target
Learn names, introduce one another, and preview the four questions that will guide our Collective Respect Agreement next class.
Subunit goal · Launch a class community through preferred-name tags and student-authored agreements, then select three school-appropriate pieces that connect to your identity. Label musical evidence—such as tempo, dynamics, texture, or timbre—and explain each connection.
45-minute student schedule · follow the times in order
0–2
Enter + attendance. Be seated, open the daily guide, take out the listed materials, and begin without waiting. Attendance happens while you settle.
2–7
Do Now. Make a readable name tag: write your preferred first name large, add a pronunciation cue if helpful, and place one sound or music connection in a corner.
7–12
Daily launch. Meet Mr. Smith and the course. Share names carefully, notice pronunciation, and preview how every student will help write the agreements we use in all Music Explorations classes during the next meeting.
12–21
Meet the room + one another. Introduce yourself to a partner using the name on your tag, then introduce your partner to another pair using their preferred name and one detail they chose to share.
21–31
Practice the room routines. Locate the assigned seat, headphones, volume control, help signal, and dismissal reset. Practice entering, sharing equipment, and resetting the room.
31–39
Preview the agreement questions. Read the four respect questions: how the teacher treats students, how peers treat one another, how students treat peers, and how students treat the teacher. Save your ideas for the next meeting's private form.
39–44
Cool-down + questions. Name one thing that helped you learn a classmate's name today and one respect-agreement question you want time to think about before next class.
44–45
Save + pack. Confirm Readable name tag + one sound-noticing card · Agreement-question preview + one question to consider, return materials, close the Chromebook, and wait to be dismissed.
Readable name tag + one sound-noticing card · Agreement-question preview + one question to consider
If you finish early
Add a small symbol to your name tag that represents how you want the room to feel when people share music and ideas.
Our class agreements
Use the agreements this class created while listening, discussing, sharing tools or devices, giving feedback, and resetting the room. If an agreement is not working, name the observable behavior and ask for a respectful reset.
Before asking for help
Re-read the current step, check the criterion or example, ask a partner one focused question, and then request a short teacher conference if you are still blocked.
Music Explorations follows the published 2026–27 pacing plan. School events, closures, or a class's progress may move a lesson; use the teacher's posted update when it differs from this calendar.
2026–27 pacing
Every class has a place on the calendar.
The plan follows Thompson School District's adopted quarter dates, student breaks, and no-student days. Emergency closures or school events may shift an individual lesson.
Full-year plan84
Maroon-day meetings
Periods 3, 4, and 6
01Quarter 1
Aug 20-Oct 13, 2026
19 Maroon-day meetings
Soundtrack of MeAug 20-Aug 28, 2026
Elements Remix LabSep 1-Sep 10, 2026
Songwriting WorkshopSep 14-Sep 24, 2026
Musicianship FoundationsOct 6-Oct 13, 2026
Music Explorations meets on Maroon days in periods 3, 4, and 6. District breaks and no-student days are already removed.
02Quarter 2
Oct 19-Dec 18, 2026
20 Maroon-day meetings
Staff and Clef DetectivesOct 19-Oct 29, 2026
Rhythm BuildersNov 3-Nov 13, 2026
Read Count and CreateNov 17-Dec 4, 2026
Musicianship CheckpointDec 8-Dec 18, 2026
All Music Explorations sections meet on Maroon days. Dates follow the existing 2026–27 school calendar; adjust a lesson when class evidence calls for reteaching.
03Quarter 3
Jan 7-Mar 11, 2027
21 Maroon-day meetings
Scales and Key SignaturesJan 7-Jan 15, 2027
Melodic Patterns and IntervalsJan 20-Feb 5, 2027
Expression and Ensemble RolesFeb 9-Feb 25, 2027
Score Study and Listening ReviewMar 1-Mar 11, 2027
All Music Explorations sections meet on Maroon days. Dates follow the existing 2026–27 school calendar; adjust a lesson when class evidence calls for reteaching.
04Quarter 4
Mar 22-May 26, 2027
24 Maroon-day meetings
Genre Form and SongcraftMar 22-Apr 1, 2027
Lyric and Melody WorkshopApr 5-Apr 15, 2027
Original Music on PaperApr 19-May 6, 2027
Ensemble Transfer PortfolioMay 10-May 26, 2027
All Music Explorations sections meet on Maroon days. Dates follow the existing 2026–27 school calendar; adjust a lesson when class evidence calls for reteaching.
Four quarters. Sixteen subunits. One complete year.
Open a quarter, then select any subunit to see its weeks, class dates, learning sequence, and daily checkpoint.
01Quarter 1
Hear the choices behind the feeling.
How Music Moves Us
Musicians shape sound to communicate mood, identity, and purpose to an audience.
Key conceptCommunicationGlobal contextPersonal & cultural expression
Aug 20-Oct 13, 202619 Maroon-day meetings
Open the unit+
Inquiry questions
What makes organized sound feel like music?
How do musical elements influence what a listener notices or feels?
Can two listeners hear the same piece differently and both be right?
Subunits & weekly curriculum
A
Listening map · Aug 20-Aug 28, 2026Soundtrack of Me
4 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
Launch a class community through preferred-name tags and student-authored agreements, then select three school-appropriate pieces that connect to your identity. Label musical evidence—such as tempo, dynamics, texture, or timbre—and explain each connection.
Turn in: Annotated listening map + source list
Soundtrack of Me · week 1Aug 20, 2026
1 class meeting
01
Thu · Aug 20Welcome to Music Explorations + Agreement preview
Learn names, introduce one another, and preview the four questions that will guide our Collective Respect Agreement next class.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Readable name tag + one sound-noticing card · Agreement-question preview + one question to consider
Soundtrack of Me · week 2Aug 24-Aug 28, 2026
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Aug 24Names + introductions + Collective Respect Agreement
Turn individual responses to four respect questions into four to six observable “We…” agreements for Music Explorations.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Readable name tag + completed partner introduction · Submitted respect form + one approved “We…” agreement
02
Wed · Aug 26Choose and credit sources + Name what you hear
Approve three usable selections, credit each source, and label musical evidence with accurate vocabulary.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Three approved selections · Elements vocabulary check
03
Fri · Aug 28Annotate with evidence + Conference and publish
Complete a three-selection listening map in which every identity claim is supported by a timestamped musical detail.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Two mapped selections · Soundtrack of Me submission
Change one musical element in a short pattern. Test two versions, collect peer noticing, and choose the version that communicates your intended mood most clearly.
Turn in: Two drafts + intention statement
Elements Remix Lab · week 1Sep 1-Sep 3, 2026
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Sep 1Pulse, rhythm, and tempo + Timbre and texture
Compare how rhythm, tempo, dynamics, articulation, timbre, and texture change the energy of one short pattern.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Rhythm lab card · Two contrast recordings · Texture sketch
02
Thu · Sep 3Melody and harmony + Design the remix test
Design a fair remix test that changes one element while keeping the comparison clear.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Melody-harmony comparison · Approved lab plan
Elements Remix Lab · week 2Sep 8-Sep 10, 2026
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Sep 8Capture the baseline + Build version one
Save a clean baseline and a documented first remix version that can be compared fairly.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Baseline recording · Version one + process note
02
Thu · Sep 10Test version two + Choose and justify
Complete a contrasting second version, collect neutral listener evidence, and justify the strongest choice.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Version two + feedback · Elements Remix Lab submission
C
Original song draft · Sep 14-Sep 24, 2026Songwriting Workshop
5 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
Draft an original song using words and a sound plan. Choose a topic, audience and genre; write a four-line verse and two-line chorus with a hook; map the sections; sketch eight beats and a melody or spoken delivery; and explain instrument roles. Use feedback to revise one lyric and one musical choice. No instruments, Noteflight, recording or live performance are required.
Turn in: Written song draft + sound plan + process journal with feedback and revisions
Songwriting Workshop · week 1Sep 14-Sep 18, 2026
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Sep 14Choose your song idea and genre
Choose a topic, listener, mood and genre, and explain the jobs of a verse, chorus and hook.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Song idea, two genre options, chosen features and section map
02
Wed · Sep 16Choose instruments and plan their roles
Plan the sounds of your song by choosing instruments or voices and assigning them musical jobs.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Instrument and role plan with a verse-to-chorus contrast
03
Fri · Sep 18Write a verse and a chorus
Draft original lyrics with concrete verse details, a clear chorus and a memorable hook.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Four-line verse, two-line chorus, marked hook and one lyric revision
Songwriting Workshop · week 2Sep 22-Sep 24, 2026
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Sep 22Give your lyrics rhythm and a melody shape
Create an eight-beat rhythm sketch and show the intended pitch movement of one sung phrase, or the emphasis of one spoken phrase.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Two eight-beat phrase versions, delivery or melody sketch and tempo choice
02
Thu · Sep 24Revise and share your song draft
Assemble a complete song draft and use specific reader or listener feedback to make and explain two revisions.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Complete song draft, specific feedback and two explained revisions
D
Visual baseline and practice map · Oct 6-Oct 13, 2026Musicianship Foundations
3 revised Maroon-day meetings beginning October 6
View plan+
New musicianship instruction begins Tuesday, October 6 in all Music Explorations sections. Complete three visual lessons on staff positions, treble/bass anchors, and basic four-beat rhythm. Show a first attempt, corrections, and a next practice goal. September 28–October 2 lesson plans remain as earlier listening work.
Turn in: Three visual practice pages and a before/after learning map; the starting-point check is ungraded.
Wed · Sep 30Showcase round two + Sort the responses
Complete the second showcase and organize all listener responses into evidence patterns.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Audience evidence set two · Feedback pattern chart
Musicianship Foundations · Fri · Oct 2Fri · Oct 2
1 class meeting
01
Fri · Oct 2What evaluation sounds like + Intention versus impact
Write evidence-based evaluation claims that compare artistic intention with audience impact.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Evaluation sentence set · Comparison organizer
Musicianship Foundations · Tue · Oct 6Tue · Oct 6
1 class meeting
01
Tue · Oct 6Begin musicianship with lines and spaces
Begin musicianship with lines and spaces
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Why must you check the clef before naming a note?
Musicianship Foundations · Thu · Oct 8Thu · Oct 8
1 class meeting
01
Thu · Oct 8Find treble and bass pitch anchors
Find treble and bass pitch anchors
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Name treble line 2 and bass line 4 without looking.
Musicianship Foundations · Tue · Oct 13Tue · Oct 13
1 class meeting
01
Tue · Oct 13Connect written notes to a steady beat
Connect written notes to a steady beat
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Show one correct four-beat bar and identify your next reading or rhythm goal.
★
Quarter showcaseAn original song draft and sound plan with an audience or reader reflection.
02Quarter 2
Build the shared language of an ensemble.
Read and Count
Musicians use notation and listening to communicate organized pitch, rhythm, and expression.
Key conceptCommunicationGlobal contextOrientation in space & time
Oct 19-Dec 18, 202620 Maroon-day meetings
Open the unit+
Inquiry questions
How do clefs and symbols make musical intentions readable?
How do beat and subdivision help an ensemble coordinate?
How can accurate notation support creative choices?
Subunits & weekly curriculum
A
Visual musicianship portfolio · Oct 19-Oct 29, 2026Staff and Clef Detectives
5 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
A labeled treble/bass staff map and an annotated original eight-note excerpt with a reading strategy. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: A labeled treble/bass staff map and an annotated original eight-note excerpt with a reading strategy.
Staff and Clef Detectives · week 1Oct 19-Oct 23, 2026
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Oct 19Find lines and spaces
Find lines and spaces
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Why can the same position have different letter names?
02
Wed · Oct 21Read treble clef
Read treble clef
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Name treble line 3 and space 3.
03
Fri · Oct 23Read bass clef
Read bass clef
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Name bass line 2 and space 3.
Staff and Clef Detectives · week 2Oct 27-Oct 29, 2026
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Oct 27Use ledger lines and registers
Use ledger lines and registers
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Show two ways of writing the same middle C.
02
Thu · Oct 29Annotate an unfamiliar score
Annotate an unfamiliar score
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the staff map, excerpt, and corrected reading strategy.
B
Visual musicianship portfolio · Nov 3-Nov 13, 2026Rhythm Builders
5 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
A rhythm toolkit with counted notes/rests, equal-duration exchanges, and four accurate measures in 4/4. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: A rhythm toolkit with counted notes/rests, equal-duration exchanges, and four accurate measures in 4/4.
Rhythm Builders · week 1Nov 3-Nov 5, 2026
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Nov 3Separate beat rhythm and tempo
Separate beat rhythm and tempo
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · How can the rhythm change while the beat stays steady?
02
Thu · Nov 5Count rests and measures
Count rests and measures
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Repair a 4/4 bar containing half + half + quarter.
Rhythm Builders · week 2Nov 9-Nov 13, 2026
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Nov 9Divide the beat into eighths
Divide the beat into eighths
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · How many eighth notes fill 4/4, and where does “&” fall?
02
Wed · Nov 11Divide the beat into sixteenths
Divide the beat into sixteenths
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Exchange two eighth notes for an equal duration of sixteenths.
03
Fri · Nov 13Hear and notate a short rhythm
Hear and notate a short rhythm
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the toolkit and four counted bars; mark a corrected mistake.
C
Visual musicianship portfolio · Nov 17-Dec 4, 2026Read Count and Create
5 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
An original four-measure melody with accurate meter, pitch labels, a tempo choice, and expressive markings. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: An original four-measure melody with accurate meter, pitch labels, a tempo choice, and expressive markings.
Read Count and Create · week 1Nov 17-Nov 19, 2026
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Nov 17Read meter and organize measures
Read meter and organize measures
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Why does changing 3/4 to 4/4 require checking bar totals?
02
Thu · Nov 19Use dots and ties
Use dots and ties
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Explain the difference between a tie and a slur.
Read Count and Create · week 2Nov 30-Dec 4, 2026
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Nov 30Write pitch and rhythm together
Write pitch and rhythm together
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Find one pitch-reading error and one duration error to check.
02
Wed · Dec 2Plan dynamics tempo and phrases
Plan dynamics tempo and phrases
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Explain one expressive marking and its intended effect.
03
Fri · Dec 4Share a readable four bar score
Share a readable four bar score
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the score and explain both revisions.
D
Visual musicianship portfolio · Dec 8-Dec 18, 2026Musicianship Checkpoint
5 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
A corrected reading/counting check, a simple-versus-compound comparison, and an evidence-based practice plan. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: A corrected reading/counting check, a simple-versus-compound comparison, and an evidence-based practice plan.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Why do three triplet eighths equal one quarter beat?
02
Thu · Dec 10Understand compound meter
Understand compound meter
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Compare the beat unit and grouping in 3/4 and 6/8.
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Name one marking you followed and one sound difference you heard.
02
Wed · Dec 16Check reading and rhythm independently
Check reading and rhythm independently
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which error is a pattern rather than a one-time slip?
03
Fri · Dec 18Evaluate growth and plan the next step
Evaluate growth and plan the next step
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the corrected check and portfolio with your next goal.
★
Quarter showcaseA staff-reading map, rhythm toolkit, original four-bar score, and corrected musicianship portfolio.
03Quarter 3
Connect musical patterns to meaning.
Pitch and Expression
Pitch relationships and expressive choices shape how musicians interpret and develop musical ideas.
What can a score communicate about phrasing and articulation?
How does listening help us revise an interpretation?
Subunits & weekly curriculum
A
Visual musicianship portfolio · Jan 7-Jan 15, 2027Scales and Key Signatures
4 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
A whole/half-step map, major-scale diagrams in C G and F, and an explanation of key signature versus accidental. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: A whole/half-step map, major-scale diagrams in C G and F, and an explanation of key signature versus accidental.
Scales and Key Signatures · week 1Jan 7, 2027
1 class meeting
01
Thu · Jan 7Map whole and half steps
Map whole and half steps
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Explain why E–F is a half step even though both keys are white.
Scales and Key Signatures · week 2Jan 11-Jan 15, 2027
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Jan 11Use sharps flats and naturals
Use sharps flats and naturals
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What does a natural sign do?
02
Wed · Jan 13Build major scales
Build major scales
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Why does G major need F sharp?
03
Fri · Jan 15Read simple key signatures
Read simple key signatures
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit your maps and explain signature versus accidental.
B
Visual musicianship portfolio · Jan 20-Feb 5, 2027Melodic Patterns and Intervals
7 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
A visual scale comparison collection and two contrasting four-bar melodic drafts with explained revisions. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: A visual scale comparison collection and two contrasting four-bar melodic drafts with explained revisions.
Melodic Patterns and Intervals · week 1Jan 20-Jan 22, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Wed · Jan 20Explore natural minor and relative keys
Explore natural minor and relative keys
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What do relative major and minor share, and what differs?
02
Fri · Jan 22Compare harmonic and melodic minor
Compare harmonic and melodic minor
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Name the change from natural to harmonic minor.
Melodic Patterns and Intervals · week 2Jan 26-Jan 28, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Jan 26Use pentatonic chromatic and blues collections
Use pentatonic chromatic and blues collections
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · How is a chromatic scale different from C major?
02
Thu · Jan 28Preview modes and tonal centers
Preview modes and tonal centers
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What distinguishes the two D-centered collections?
Melodic Patterns and Intervals · week 3Feb 1-Feb 5, 2027
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Feb 1Measure melodic intervals
Measure melodic intervals
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Explain why counting letter positions includes the starting note.
02
Wed · Feb 3Develop a motif into a phrase
Develop a motif into a phrase
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What stayed recognizable and what changed?
03
Fri · Feb 5Revise two melodic possibilities
Revise two melodic possibilities
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit scale comparisons and both annotated drafts.
C
Visual musicianship portfolio · Feb 9-Feb 25, 2027Expression and Ensemble Roles
6 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
An annotated four-bar arrangement plan showing dynamics articulation phrasing and the jobs of three imagined sound sources. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: An annotated four-bar arrangement plan showing dynamics articulation phrasing and the jobs of three imagined sound sources.
Expression and Ensemble Roles · week 1Feb 9-Feb 11, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Feb 9Shape a phrase with dynamics
Shape a phrase with dynamics
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Why is forte not a fixed volume number?
02
Thu · Feb 11Recognize common articulations
Recognize common articulations
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Explain tie versus slur versus staccato.
Expression and Ensemble Roles · week 2Feb 17-Feb 19, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Wed · Feb 17Plan breathing bowing and musical phrases
Plan breathing bowing and musical phrases
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which mark changes duration according to interpretation rather than a fixed new beat total?
02
Fri · Feb 19Hear timbre texture and instrument jobs
Hear timbre texture and instrument jobs
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · How can one instrument have more than one job?
Expression and Ensemble Roles · week 3Feb 23-Feb 25, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Feb 23Build triads and supporting harmony
Build triads and supporting harmony
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What is the difference between melody and a chord?
02
Thu · Feb 25Create an expressive arrangement on paper
Create an expressive arrangement on paper
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the annotated score, role map, and revision notes.
D
Visual musicianship portfolio · Mar 1-Mar 11, 2027Score Study and Listening Review
4 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
A score/listening comparison and corrected musicianship check with a specific independent practice strategy. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: A score/listening comparison and corrected musicianship check with a specific independent practice strategy.
Score Study and Listening Review · week 1Mar 1-Mar 3, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Mon · Mar 1Prepare an unfamiliar ensemble excerpt
Prepare an unfamiliar ensemble excerpt
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What is the first specific difficulty you would practice?
02
Wed · Mar 3Compare a score with what you hear
Compare a score with what you hear
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Cite one score location and one audible observation.
Score Study and Listening Review · week 2Mar 9-Mar 11, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Mar 9Check scales symbols and intervals
Check scales symbols and intervals
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which correction will make the largest difference in your next score?
02
Thu · Mar 11Evaluate your practice process
Evaluate your practice process
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the review portfolio and name the next skill to transfer.
★
Quarter showcaseScale comparisons, melodic alternatives, an expressive arrangement plan, and score/listening analysis.
04Quarter 4
Use what you know in music of your own.
Create and Transfer
Musicians draw on musical traditions and shared literacy to create, revise, and communicate purposeful ideas.
How do genre, context, form, and lyrics guide a song?
How can a written draft communicate an original musical idea?
How do reading, listening, and creating support orchestra, band, and choir?
Subunits & weekly curriculum
A
Visual musicianship portfolio · Mar 22-Apr 1, 2027Genre Form and Songcraft
5 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
Two evidence-based song/score maps with cultural context and an original song plan covering form genre lyrics and sound roles. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: Two evidence-based song/score maps with cultural context and an original song plan covering form genre lyrics and sound roles.
Genre Form and Songcraft · week 1Mar 22-Mar 26, 2027
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Mar 22Describe genre with musical evidence
Describe genre with musical evidence
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What musical evidence supports your description of one excerpt?
02
Wed · Mar 24Map sections and musical form
Map sections and musical form
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · How can a song repeat music while changing lyrics?
03
Fri · Mar 26Connect lyrics stress and musical rhythm
Connect lyrics stress and musical rhythm
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which word or syllable will your rhythm emphasize, and why?
Genre Form and Songcraft · week 2Mar 30-Apr 1, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Mar 30Select voices instruments and arrangement roles
Select voices instruments and arrangement roles
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What will change when the chorus begins?
02
Thu · Apr 1Plan an original song or instrumental piece
Plan an original song or instrumental piece
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit both comparison maps and your original plan.
Two contrasted four-bar draft sections, a lyric or phrase map, and a peer-feedback revision plan. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: Two contrasted four-bar draft sections, a lyric or phrase map, and a peer-feedback revision plan.
Lyric and Melody Workshop · week 1Apr 5-Apr 9, 2027
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Apr 5Draft a verse or first musical section
Draft a verse or first musical section
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which detail or motif makes your section identifiable?
02
Wed · Apr 7Draft a chorus or contrasting section
Draft a chorus or contrasting section
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Name what repeats and what contrasts.
03
Fri · Apr 9Fit words or motifs to counted rhythm
Fit words or motifs to counted rhythm
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Show that every bar has the correct total.
Lyric and Melody Workshop · week 2Apr 13-Apr 15, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Apr 13Choose exact pitches for a melody
Choose exact pitches for a melody
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which pitch choice helps your listener follow the idea?
02
Thu · Apr 15Test alternatives and plan revisions
Test alternatives and plan revisions
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit two sections, the phrase/lyric map, alternatives, and a revision plan.
C
Visual musicianship portfolio · Apr 19-May 6, 2027Original Music on Paper
7 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
An original eight-bar core score or song sketch with form lyrics or phrase notes imagined arrangement expression and two documented revisions. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: An original eight-bar core score or song sketch with form lyrics or phrase notes imagined arrangement expression and two documented revisions.
Original Music on Paper · week 1Apr 19-Apr 23, 2027
3 class meetings
01
Mon · Apr 19Assemble a complete score draft
Assemble a complete score draft
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which required feature needs the most attention?
02
Wed · Apr 21Audit rhythm and pitch accuracy
Audit rhythm and pitch accuracy
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What rule or reference supports one correction?
03
Fri · Apr 23Shape expression and phrase direction
Shape expression and phrase direction
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which marking communicates a specific intention?
Original Music on Paper · week 2Apr 27-Apr 29, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · Apr 27Plan the arrangement and section contrast
Plan the arrangement and section contrast
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · How does a supporting part leave space for the main idea?
02
Thu · Apr 29Use a reader or listener test
Use a reader or listener test
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What change will you test, and what evidence will show improvement?
Original Music on Paper · week 3May 4-May 6, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · May 4Revise and prepare a final musical plan
Revise and prepare a final musical plan
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Point to the before and after of both revisions.
02
Thu · May 6Share the original music portfolio
Share the original music portfolio
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the portfolio and identify one choice you would continue developing.
D
Visual musicianship portfolio · May 10-May 26, 2027Ensemble Transfer Portfolio
7 Maroon-day meetings
View plan+
An annotated original ensemble-style excerpt a before/after practice example and a final portfolio showing how reading listening and composing support ensemble musicianship. Use your visual journal and supplied references. Quiet speaking, humming, tapping, or silent tracing can test ideas. Listening tasks use teacher demonstrations or class audio. Instruments, Noteflight, recordings, and ensemble enrollment are not required.
Turn in: An annotated original ensemble-style excerpt a before/after practice example and a final portfolio showing how reading listening and composing support ensemble musicianship.
Ensemble Transfer Portfolio · week 1May 10-May 14, 2027
3 class meetings
01
Mon · May 10Choose a transfer excerpt
Choose a transfer excerpt
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · State one precise learning goal for this excerpt.
02
Wed · May 12Decode pitch and melodic movement
Decode pitch and melodic movement
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Explain how you decoded the most difficult note.
03
Fri · May 14Plan pulse subdivisions and entrances
Plan pulse subdivisions and entrances
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · What must continue while your part rests?
Ensemble Transfer Portfolio · week 2May 18-May 20, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Tue · May 18Make an expressive rehearsal plan
Make an expressive rehearsal plan
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · How will your part support the larger phrase?
02
Thu · May 20Use listening evidence to refine the plan
Use listening evidence to refine the plan
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Which revision came from listening rather than guessing?
Ensemble Transfer Portfolio · week 3May 24-May 26, 2027
2 class meetings
01
Mon · May 24Complete an independent musicianship check
Complete an independent musicianship check
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Where can you demonstrate growth with actual work?
02
Wed · May 26Reflect on musicianship and future practice
Reflect on musicianship and future practice
45 min · 0–7 entry + Do Now · 7–12 launch · 12–39 independent work · 39–45 cool-down + packCheckpoint · Submit the transfer portfolio and explain how Music Explorations supports your future music learning.
★
Quarter showcaseAn original eight-bar core score or song sketch and an ensemble-transfer portfolio showing documented growth.
Music Explorations uses evidence from the MYP Arts criteria and Thompson School District's published standards-based language. Scores describe the learning shown—not a percentage.
Criterion AInvestigating
Research a genre, context, artwork, or performance and analyze evidence.
Criterion BDeveloping
Explore skills and ideas in practice, then form a clear artistic intention.
Criterion CCreating or performing
Use skills and techniques to create or perform a finalized musical work.
Criterion DEvaluating
Evaluate the work, the process, and your development as a young artist.
The 4–1 learning scale
Half-step scores may be used between levels. IE means there is not yet enough evidence to score.
4
Exemplary
Transfers and extends the standard in a new situation.
3
Meets
Shows the expected standard clearly and consistently.
2
Progressing
Shows developing understanding with some support needed.
1
Emerging
Shows beginning evidence and needs significant support.
Course language reflects the district's published middle-school guide. The teacher will confirm any current school-level updates before grades are reported.
Complete the new musicianship sequence with pencil and paper or the visual Google Docs journals. View lesson slides and reference maps in Chrome. No instruments, notation software, recording, or home equipment are required.
Keyboard, touchpad, and screen-reader friendly
Visual notation, diagrams, and brief written reflections
Clear file names and lightweight submission formats