We follow the Archdiocese of Philadelphia music guides for each grade, as well as the National Standards for Music Education.
In grades 4th to 8th we continue expanding on our musical concepts for each grade level in the same areas as K-3rd grade. We talk about different styles of music as well as how to compose our own musical pieces.  The students are graded on our lessons through cooperation, participation, assignments, and assessments.

4 = Exceeds expectations and fulflilment of responsibilities
      Focused, consistently participating, a leader in class, a model for peers
3 = Meets expectations and fulfillment of responsibilities
      Almost always focused, makes a good effort, sometimes participating
2 = Approaching expectations and fulfillment of responsibilities
      Sometimes focused, sometimes gets distracted/causes distraction, otfen not participating
1 = Does not meet expectations and fulfillment of responsibilites
      Rarely participating, often distracted/causing distraction, does not sing, play, or move