Classroom Information
Grading Policy
Each 9 weeks student achievement grades will be determined by averaging performances in each of the following areas:
50% Daily Class Participation/Preparation-Having his/her instrument/equipment in class (this includes reeds, ligature, mouthpiece, etc. which may apply to each instrument.)
-Music Folder/Method Book AND pencil in class. Failure to bring an instrument to class two times in one quarter will result in an after-school detention.
25% Quizzes
-All performances are counted as 3 quiz grades. One grade is designated for attendance, one for proper concert attire, and one for bringing necessary materials (instrument and music). The Prince William County School Board requires all students to attend performances. Appropriate dress is required for performances.
-Students may be asked to perform certain exercises, scales, or prepared selections for a quiz grade.
-From time to time students will turn in written assignments from class.
-Turning in the parent/student signed last page of the band handbook.
-Agenda or Name Tag quizzes- students must bring their agenda to class and show that their instrument is labeled with their name, school, and contact information.
25% Practice Cards
Practice cards are due on the first day of each week. Practice cards must be SIGNED by a parent/guardian. An unsigned practice card will NOT be accepted. A student may turn in his/her practice card the NEXT day for a one letter grade deduction (keep in mind that the student may not have band class on the next day, therefore it will become his/her responsibility to turn it in before school or during another appropriate time). If the student loses his/her practice card or prefers not to use the provided card, a sheet of notebook paper containing the same information (signed by a parent) will be accepted. If a student is sick or an instrument is away being repaired, practicing can be completed by fingering through parts on the instrument or by counting/clapping through music parts. Students will receive a new practice card each quarter from the director. If a student does not complete the weekly practice card assignment, a minimum 30 minutes of documented practice per week is required with a parent signature in order to receive a grade for the class. Just as in their other academic classes, homework (practice) is essential for student learning and success. Practice doesn't make perfect but it doesn't make better!
Grading Scale for Practice Cards:
6th Grade 7th/8th Grades
A-90+ minutes A-150+ minutes
B-75-89 minutes B+ 136-149 minutes
C-60-74 minutes B-120-135 minutes
D-45-59 minutes C+-90-119 minutes
C- 60-89 minutes
D+- 46-59 minutes
D- 30-45 minutes
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Note to Parents: "NHI" in the gradebook stands for assignments that were "Not Handed In". Your child's grades are always available for your viewing through the "Edulink INTOUCH" online system.
You can register for this free parent tool by clicking on the "Edulink" icon on the WMS website. Click on Woodbridge Middle School and once you have registered you will receive (in a couple of days) a confirmation that your password is available to pick up at the school.
