Stage 1 Desired Results

ESTABLISHED GOALS

1. The development of basic ukulele technical fluency (tuning, strumming, picking, music theory)
2. The ability to decode and translate basic ukulele notation (music notation, tablature, and chord diagrams)
3. Elementary to intermediate solo and group performance skills

Standards

Students will be able to independently use their learning to…        

1. tune their ukulele.
2. play and write chord progressions using no fewer than 24 unique chords in major, minor, and dominant 7th voicings.
3. perform pentatonic scales and one-octave major scales in all 12 keys.
4. perform in both melodic and accompaniment styles on the ukulele as a soloist and as part of an ensemble.
5. seek out reputable Internet and digital resources for further development of ukulele technique.

Meaning

UNDERSTANDINGS        

Students will understand that…

1. the ukulele is an instrument with a rich cultural history that has gone through multiple cycles of popularity over the past 140 years.
2. the ukulele can be easily and effortlessly adapted to myriad learning styles with either novice or advanced aspirations.
3. the ukulele can be performed in a variety of contexts, including as a solo, accompaniment, or ensemble instrument.
4. there are myriad ways to decode and interpret ukulele music.
5. the ukulele can be used as a vehicle for musical composition and storytelling

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS        

1. How can the ukulele be manipulated to suit an individual’s need for artistic expression?
2. How has the ukulele been historically used by various individuals to showcase the instruments myriad applications as a tool for musical expression?
3. Where can an aspiring uke player turn to locate reputable resources for further development of their technique?

Acquisition

Students will independently be able to use their learning for...        

1. tuning a ukulele and performing basic maintenance for its upkeep and longevity.
2. the independent pursuit of learning how to play songs of their choosing by accessing resources on the Internet.
3. decoding ukulele sheet music in a variety of templates
4. songwriting activities wherein they compose and perform their own original musical ideas.

Students will be skilled at…        

1. basic songwriting skills
2. more than two dozen major, minor, and dominant chords conventionally used in a majority of Western music.
3. performing in an ensemble setting as both a lead and accompanimental voice.
4. efficiently surveying resources on the Internet to procure reputable and helpful tools for further development of ukulele technique.

Stage 2 - Evidence

Evaluative Criteria

Assessment Evidence

1. performance skills
2. listening skills
3. music theory skills

PERFORMANCE TASK(S):        

1. formative assessments
2. summative assessments

OTHER EVIDENCE:        

1. playing test videos
2. in-class group projects and performances
3. traditional tests (multiple choice, matching, T/F, etc.)

Stage 3 – Learning Plan