Award Received
National 4/National 5 Music
The National 4 course is assessed as pass or fail. National 5 is graded A to D.
Entry Level
What do I need to do it?
Ideally, you should be able to play 2 instruments to at least a basic level – classroom instruments are fine (e.g. xylophone, keyboard, guitar, drum kit, voice etc.). You DO NOT need to be having lessons on your instrument in order to choose this course. It is important that you have a willingness to practise regularly.
Course Content
What will I learn?
The course allows you to develop practical skills in performing and creating music, while developing your understanding of musical styles and concepts. It can meet the needs of a wide variety of learners with a range of musical interests.
Teaching Methods
What will I do?
The course provides opportunities for you to perform a variety of music using your voice and/or your selected instrument(s). Through music, you will extend your ability to express yourself and develop your personal creativity and self-confidence when performing and creating music. In the course, you will develop a breadth of knowledge and understanding of music concepts and musical literacy. You will develop your ability to recognise and distinguish level-specific music signs, symbols and music concepts as you perform, create and listen to music.
N4 Course Assessment
To achieve the N4 course, you must successfully complete three mandatory units: performing, composing and understanding and an Added Value Unit (a performance).
N5 Course Assessments
- Performance
The purpose of the performance is to allow you to demonstrate skills on two instruments (can include voice). The overall programme must be a minimum of 8 minutes and must not exceed 8 minutes and 30 seconds. You should perform a minimum of two contrasting pieces of music on each instrument. These should be of an appropriate standard/level of difficulty (equivalent to grade 3 Associated Board). The performance has 60 marks (50% of the overall course award).
2. Composing
The purpose of the composing assignment is to explore and develop musical ideas to create music. The assignment has two parts:
· composing one piece of music
· reviewing the composing process
The composed piece may be in any style/genre and must last between a minimum of 1 minute and a maximum of 2 minutes and 30 seconds. The assignment has 20 marks (15% of the overall course award).
3. Question Paper
The question paper gives you an opportunity to demonstrate the following skills, knowledge and understanding:
· aural perception and discrimination
· knowledge and understanding of a range of music styles, concepts and music literacy
The question paper has 40 marks (35% of the overall course award).
Homework
You will be expected to develop and extend your skills outside the classroom in all three elements of the course. This involves regular practice on your two chosen instruments as well as composing and listening. Attendance at extra-curricular music activities is strongly recommended and will greatly enhance your musical education.
Progression in the Senior Phase
Successful completion of the National 4 course may lead to National 5. Successful completion of the National 5 course may lead to Higher.
