Printed from the MusicK8.com Idea Bank

Composition Rubric

Submitted by Christine Bock, Knoxville, Tennessee

Idea posted 2003-04-28

Q: I am starting a composition project with my 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders (to be played on recorder and unpitched percussion). I was wondering if anyone has a rubric they have used for a project of this nature.

A: I do a composition unit with my 3rd graders. Are they composing as a group, in small groups, or as individuals? I usually do small groups and the group as a whole. For small groups, my requirements are:

Song must have 2 verses and a refrain (sometimes I use ABA)
The verse must have at least 8 measures
The refrain must have at least 4 measures
The verse and refrain must sound different from each other
1 pitched and 1 unpitched instrument must be used

I also ask each member of the group to fill out a peer evaluation form, rating the participation of each member of the group.

When we compose as a group, I keep the grade book next to me. I tell the class that everyone is expected to give suggestions and participate. Anytime a student gives a suggestion, whether it's used or not, I put a + in my book. That gives me a pretty good idea of how they are participating.