Unit Plan 26 (Grade 5 Orchestra): Rehearsing for Accuracy

Focus: Respond to feedback to improve pitch, rhythm, and bow control during orchestra rehearsal.

Grade Level: 5

Subject Area: Orchestra (Technique • Ensemble • Practice Habits)

Total Unit Duration: 1–2 weeks, 30-minute sessions

I. Introduction

Students learn how to rehearse like musicians, not just repeat notes. They explore how specific teacher and peer feedback can help them fix pitch, rhythm, and bow issues one step at a time. Using short excerpts from current repertoire, students practice turning “fix-it” comments into simple, repeatable practice strategies they can use in class and at home.

Essential Questions

• How does feedback help us become more accurate and confident string players?
• What does it look and sound like to use a practice strategy instead of just playing a part over and over?
• How can we tell if our pitch, rhythm, and bow control are improving during rehearsal?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Describe at least two practice strategies (slow practice, counting, isolating measures, repetition) that improve accuracy.
2. Use teacher or peer feedback to adjust bow placement, finger position, or counting in a short excerpt.
3. Rehearse a short passage focusing on pitch, rhythm, and bow control, then explain what they improved.
4. Complete a simple self-check or checklist about their rehearsal habits.
5. Perform a brief “before and after” version of a passage showing how feedback changed their playing.

Standards Alignment — Grade 5 Orchestra (custom, NAfME-style)

• OR:Pr5.5b — Respond to teacher feedback to improve tone quality, bow control, intonation, and ensemble habits.
  • Example: Students adjust bow placement after feedback and hear improvement in tone.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can name at least two practice strategies that help me fix mistakes.
• I can show how I used feedback to change my bow, fingers, or counting.
• I can rehearse a short passage and hear better pitch, rhythm, or tone than before.
• I can fill out a simple self-check about how I practiced in rehearsal.