Level 2 Understanding Music (MUS202)
MUS202 Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mr M. Isaacs.
Recommended Prior Learning1. At least 3 years tuition on an instrument or voice or equivalent skill and knowledge.
2. An ability to read music and/or be confident using music technology.
3. The student must attend instrumental or vocal lessons all year.
4. The student must be committed to regular personal practice on their instrument.
5. Students must participate fully in at least one school musical group e.g orchestra, choir, jazz band, kapa haka
This achievement standards* course provides students with the opportunity to build upon their fundamental music skills to expand their understanding and appreciation of Music. The learning is suited to students who not only wish to perform, compose and explore a range of music technologies but also study the rudiments of theory, and music in its social context. Students will be guided to select a combination of compulsory and optional achievement standards to explore the following areas:
Solo and group performance performances - Students are encouraged to develop their understanding of different genre, build a sound technique on their instrument and further explore the expressive qualities required to communicate effectively with an audience.
Composition portfolios - Students will develop their inner ear, aesthetic judgement and their ability to communicate more complex narratives and emotions through music.
Analysis of musical scores and aural extracts - Students build a strong understanding of musical literacy and discuss the application of theoretical concepts in both written and aural contexts.
Instrumentation - Students will apply their understanding of music theory concepts to reinterpret a piece of music for an ensemble of their choosing.
Research of a New Zealand music topic - Students will gain an understanding of the role of music in society in New Zealand and will develop their communication and research skills to present their research to an audience.
*Some Music Technology credits (unit standards) may be available if students are interested.
Course Overview
Term 1
Students are introduced to the range of standards on offer and select a mix of compulsory and optional assessments for the year.
Students either complete the Instrumentation or Research an NZ Music Topic standard. Due at the end of the term.
Students are introduced to the theory and aural external assessments and revise knowledge from MUS101.
Term 2
Students present their first two piece/song performance (formative assessment) for solo performance.
Students may study and complete the L2 MIDI (music technology) unity standard if they choose.
The first composition of their two composition portfolio is due at the end of the term.
Students build upon their basic knowledge of theory and aural in preparation for the external assessments.
Term 3
The second composition of the students' two composition portfolio is due at the end of the term.
Students complete a group performance as a part of the SHC Musical Roadshow.
Students present their second two piece/song solo performance as a part of the SHC Performing Arts Assessment Evenings.
Students complete their learning for theory and aural in preparation for the external assessments.
Term 4
Students focus on the external exams and continue working on any standards they are yet to complete.
Level 2 optional courses, Performing Arts
Assessment Policy & Procedures Assessment Information
Students choose from a mixture of compulsory and optional the standards to create an individualised course.
Level 2,3 Music Recording & Electronic Production (REP23), Level 3 Mastering Music (MUS303)
This course can be taken concurrently with Recording and Electronic production or can lead to Level 3 Music
Career PathwaysMusician, Sound Technician, Dancer, Entertainer, Actor, Art Director (Film, Television or Stage), Artistic Director, Film and Video Editor, Counsellor, Driving Instructor, Early Childhood Teacher, Primary School Teacher, Kaiwhakaako Māori, Tertiary Lecturer, Private Teacher/Tutor, Recreation Co-ordinator, Youth Worker, Secondary School Teacher, Teacher Aide
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery1 x Ring binder, 1x 14M5 Music Loose Leaf Refill Pad, 2 x 2B Pencils, 1x Flash Drive/USB. A $5 Theory workbook.