End of Year

So, spring break is done, it's May, and even though it doesn't look like spring outside, we are nearing the end of the school year. I can't believe how quickly this year has gone and I'll be sad when I see this group of students move on to high school. I have the upmost respect for these students and still want them to succeed and push themselves to finishing on a high note, literally. :)

Since we are coming up to the end of the year, it is important to stay focused with the eye on next year. The best way to start strong next year in high school is to end strong in middle school. We have a very important upcoming scales test approaching our students. We have discussed several ways to help learn these scales using the Circle of 5ths chart that was given to them in early April. This task is challenging but one that can be successful by thinking and repetitive practice. Encouragement and a positive attitude will always help your child succeed, but sometimes they also need a good push to get them started or to keep them going. We have been working on scales since September. But now they have to use that information to create and perform all 12 major scales. During the year, we probably worked on about 4 or 5 scales, which are in addition to the ones they may have learned last year in 7th grade band. This puts them about half way there.

The test will be given in the students last lesson of the year. I am very confident that if students work consistently and thoughtfully, they will be successful.