Unit Plan 35 (Grade 5 Band): Final Performance
Grade 5 band students present a culminating performance demonstrating growth in tone, rhythm, steady beat, ensemble skills, and concert etiquette.
Focus: Perform band music demonstrating growth in tone, rhythm, steady beat, and ensemble skills in a culminating class or concert performance.
Grade Level: 5
Subject Area: Band (Performing • Creating • Responding • Connecting)
Total Unit Duration: 1–2 weeks, 30 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this culminating unit, students prepare for and present a final performance that showcases their progress as beginning band musicians. They review concert etiquette, refine tone, rhythm, and steady beat, and practice watching conductor cues for clean starts and cut-offs. After the performance, students reflect on how they have grown in instrument skills, ensemble playing, and responsibility since the start of the year.
Essential Questions
- How can we show our best musicianship—tone, rhythm, and steady beat—during a final performance?
- What does it look and sound like when a band uses good ensemble skills and concert etiquette?
- How can reflecting on our performance help us set new musical goals for the future?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Perform assigned band repertoire with mostly accurate notes, rhythms, and a steady beat.
- Demonstrate appropriate tone quality and adjust dynamics to fit the ensemble sound.
- Follow conductor cues for entrances, cut-offs, and changes in dynamics or tempo.
- Show appropriate rehearsal and performance etiquette (focus, posture, tracking rests, respectful collaboration).
- Reflect on their growth as band musicians, naming at least one strength and one goal for future improvement.
Standards Alignment — Grade 5 Band (custom, NAfME-style)
- BD:Pr6.5a — Perform beginning band music with accurate notes, steady beat, and appropriate tone in an ensemble setting.
- Example: Students perform a unison class piece together with steady tempo.
- BD:Pr6.5b — Demonstrate appropriate rehearsal and performance etiquette (focus, tracking rests, following conductor cues, respectful collaboration).
- Example: Students sit ready, watch the conductor, and enter together on cue.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can perform our band music with mostly correct notes and rhythms and a steady beat.
- I can use a clear tone and adjust how loud or soft I play to fit the group.
- I can watch the conductor and start and stop with the ensemble.
- I can show good concert behavior, including quiet listening, respectful body language, and supporting my section.
- I can name one strength and one next goal after our performance.