Unit Plan 10 (Grade 6 Orchestra): Key & Finger Pattern Fluency

Focus: Strengthen reading and playing in common string keys using clear finger patterns, scales, and consistent technique.

Grade Level: 6

Subject Area: Orchestra (Reading & Notation • Finger Patterns • Keys/Scales)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, Grade 6 orchestra students build fluency in common string keys (such as D, G, C, and A major) by connecting key signatures to finger patterns and scales they play every day. Students learn to quickly identify which fingers are low, regular, or high in each key and to move through scales and short exercises with a steady tempo and reliable technique. Throughout the week, they connect reading (what the key signature tells them) to doing (how their left hand and bow respond), setting a strong foundation for more complex repertoire.

Essential Questions

• How do key signatures help me know which finger patterns to use on my instrument?
• What does it mean to be fluent in a key when reading and playing music?
• How do good posture, bow hold, and left-hand shape support accurate key and finger pattern work?
• How can practicing scales and patterns make reading new pieces in the same key easier?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Identify key signatures for common string keys (D, G, C, and/or A major) and name which fingers change on each string.
2. Use standard notation to read and perform scales and short exercises in these keys at a steady tempo.
3. Demonstrate consistent string technique (posture, instrument position, bow hold, left-hand shape) while playing scales and patterns.
4. Apply finger pattern language (e.g., low 2 / high 2, extensions) to explain how their left hand changes across different keys.
5. Perform a short Key & Finger Pattern Fluency Check that shows accurate notes, appropriate patterns, and good basic tone/intonation.

Standards Alignment — Grade 6 Orchestra (custom, NAfME-style)

• OR:Pr4.6b — Read and perform orchestra music using standard notation, including expanded rhythms, key signatures, and finger patterns, maintaining steady tempo.
  • Example: Students perform a piece with eighth-note patterns and simple slurs accurately.
• OR:Pr4.6a — Demonstrate consistent string technique (posture, instrument position, bow hold, left-hand shape) that supports characteristic tone and developing intonation.
  • Example: Students maintain curved left-hand fingers and even bow strokes across a full warm-up.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can name the key of a piece (or scale) from its key signature.
• I can say which fingers change in that key (for example, “G major uses low 2 on the D string”).
• I can play scales and short patterns in common keys with a steady tempo and mostly correct notes.
• I can keep my posture, bow hold, and left-hand shape steady while I change keys and patterns.
• I can complete a short fluency check that shows I can read and play in at least two common keys.