Criterion/

Significance

A: knowledge & understanding

B: application

C: reflection & evaluation

D: artistic awareness & personal engagement

Level 0

The student does not reach a standard described by any of the descriptors given below.

Level 1-2

Difficulty understanding music theory and topic presented.

Struggles to use musical skills and devices.

Does not reflect on work done and does not consider how to improve it.

Does not participate consistently. Does not demonstrate interests or enthusiasm towards topic of study.

Level 3-4

Understands some music theory. Shows basic understanding of topic by using some key terms.

Uses basic skills and devices with some errors. Work shows some success

Bases work on examples from class.

Struggles to reflect on work, and shows difficulties in identifying strengths or areas for improvement.

Does not always complete work.

Usually participates.

Usually self-disciplined and motivated.

Level 5-6

Understands most music theory, including details of topic. Shows understanding by using key terms to describe specific issues

Uses skills and devices with few errors. Ideas are creative and quite successful.

Ideas are student’s own, not based on examples from class.

Is able to reflect on work, mentioning areas for improvement and recognizing assistance received.

Consistently involved in class.

Willing to develop work to the best of the student’s abilities.

Level 7-8

Understands music theory thoroughly, as well as how the topic relates to other topics.

Shows understanding by using a wide variety of terms with ease and confidence when discussing specific issues.

Uses skills and devices well, and shows a level of creativity and success.

Ideas are student’s own and show some complexity.

Reflects on work, identifying concrete areas for improvement and suggesting action steps. Recognizes own progress and analyzes quality work.

Always fully involved in class and very interested in lessons.

Often suggests new ideas. Is enthusiastic and committed to work and the class

Level 9-10

Uses skills and devices with confidence and clear intention, drawing on other knowledge to produce highly creative work.