Unit Plan 27 (Grade 4 Music): Group Performance
Grade 4 music unit focused on collaborative ensemble performance, building accuracy, expression, teamwork, and respectful stage and audience etiquette.
Focus: Perform collaboratively with accuracy and expression.
Grade Level: 4
Subject Area: Music (General Music)
Total Unit Duration: 1 required session + up to 2 optional extension sessions (50–60 minutes each)
I. Introduction
In this unit, students bring together their rhythm, melody, and expression skills to prepare and present a short group performance. They review expectations for ensemble cooperation, refine technical accuracy (steady beat, correct pitches, entrances), and practice appropriate performance decorum as both performers and audience members. By the end, students perform a piece (or short set) that showcases teamwork, expression, and respect for the performance space.
Essential Questions
- How do individual responsibilities and choices affect the success of a group performance?
- What does it mean to perform with accuracy, expression, and appropriate stage etiquette?
- How should performers and audience members behave to show respect for the music and each other?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Rehearse and perform a selected piece (or short set) with accurate rhythm, steady beat, and mostly correct pitches.
- Demonstrate expression through dynamics, tempo, and tone that match the style and mood of the music.
- Show appropriate performance decorum on stage (entrances, posture, focus) and audience etiquette when listening.
- Use basic criteria (accuracy, expression, decorum) to self-assess and peer-assess a performance, citing at least one example.
- Reflect on how working together as an ensemble changes the musical experience compared to performing alone.
Standards Alignment — Grade 4 Music (NAfME-Aligned)
- MU:Pr6.1.4a — Perform music, alone or with others, with expression, technical accuracy, and appropriate interpretation.
- Example: Performing a song with correct notes, rhythm, and style.
- MU:Pr6.1.4b — Demonstrate performance decorum and audience etiquette appropriate for the context, venue, and genre.
- Example: Showing proper concert behavior when performing or listening.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can perform our music with steady beat, mostly correct pitches, and clear entrances.
- I can use dynamics and tempo to match the mood and style of the piece.
- I can show good stage behavior (standing ready, focusing on the conductor, not distracting others).
- I can be a respectful audience member by listening quietly and clapping at appropriate times.
- I can explain at least one thing our group did well and one thing we could improve next time.