Unit Plan 9 (Grade 6 Vocal Music): First Group Performance
Prepare Grade 6 singers for a polished first unison performance by building accurate pitch, rhythm, diction, and expressive singing while practicing focused ensemble behavior and respectful performance/audience etiquette.
Focus: Perform a unison song with accurate pitch, rhythm, diction, and expression, while demonstrating focused ensemble behavior and performance etiquette as both singers and audience members.
Grade Level: 6
Subject Area: Vocal Music (Performance • Ensemble Skills • Etiquette)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–55 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students prepare for their first group performance of the year, focusing on singing together in unison with accurate pitch and rhythm, clear words, and expressive tone. They also learn and practice performance etiquette: how to enter and exit, stand on risers, watch the conductor, and respond respectfully as audience members. Through run-throughs, guided feedback, and reflection, students experience what it means to present a polished performance as a choir, not just rehearse in class.
Essential Questions
- What makes a group performance feel confident, unified, and enjoyable for the audience?
- How do pitch, rhythm, diction, and expression work together in a successful unison performance?
- Why is performance etiquette important for both singers and audience members?
- How can I use what I notice in rehearsal to improve my performance on stage?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Perform a unison song with appropriate pitch, rhythm, diction, and expression.
- Demonstrate performance etiquette as singers (posture, focus, watching the conductor, professional entrances/exits).
- Show audience etiquette by listening attentively, remaining quiet, and responding appropriately to performers.
- Use feedback from the teacher and peers to refine performance elements (intonation, diction, dynamics, focus).
- Reflect on their performance, naming at least one strength and one goal for future performances.
Standards Alignment — Grade 6 Vocal Music (custom, NAfME-style)
- VM:Pr6.6a — Perform vocal music with appropriate pitch, rhythm, diction, and expression.
- Example: Students perform a unison song with clear diction and dynamic contrast.
- VM:Pr6.6b — Demonstrate appropriate performance etiquette as a singer and audience member.
- Example: Students enter the risers quietly and maintain focus during performances.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can sing our unison song with accurate pitch and rhythm.
- I can keep my words clear and use expression (dynamics, tone) to match the song’s mood.
- I can show performance etiquette by entering, standing, watching the conductor, and exiting respectfully.
- I can be a respectful audience member, showing I am listening and supporting the performers.
- I can explain one thing that went well in our performance and one thing I want to improve next time.