Course Details
Exploring Music I (Grade 6-8)
Review key course information and curriculum options.
Course Information
- Subject Area
- Fine and Performing Arts
- State Course Code
- 05117
- Length
- Two Semesters
- Total Hours
- 270
Music Appreciation courses help students develop an understanding of music and its role in everyday life. The course explores how different musical styles use elements such as rhythm, melody, harmony, and dynamics to create expressive and aesthetic impact. Students also have opportunities for informal music performance and creative exploration within the home classroom environment, strengthening both appreciation and personal connection to music.
Learning Goals
Students will learn to:
Music Foundations & Expression
- explain why people create music and how it is used to express ideas, emotions, and identity;
- identify the four main instrument families and describe their unique timbres (tone qualities);
- describe how personal and cultural identity can be reflected through musical choices.
Music Theory & Creation
- define and apply core music elements including pitch, melody, harmony, rhythm, tempo, dynamics, and form;
- read and interpret basic music notation used by composers and musicians;
- create original musical ideas using virtual instruments and digital tools.
Music, Mind, and Emotion
- explain how music connects to memory, emotions, and ceremonies across cultures;
- describe how soundwaves and pitch interact to form musical tones;
- discuss the role and benefits of music therapy in supporting well-being.
Music, Technology, and Media
- analyze how technology has influenced the creation, sharing, and accessibility of music worldwide;
- describe how music is combined with film, media, and digital platforms to enhance storytelling;
- explain how the internet has changed copyright and intellectual property in music.
Music, Culture, and Movement
- describe how music and dance are connected across different cultures;
- explain how migration and cultural exchange have shaped world music and American music traditions;
- identify cultural influences in various musical styles and genres.
Music History & Global Perspectives
- trace how musical genres have developed over time and across different regions of the world;
- explain how music preserves history, traditions, and important events within communities;
- recognize major influences behind genres such as American rhythm and rock and roll.
Music Industry & Careers
- describe how music functions as both an art form and a product within the music industry;
- identify careers related to music creation, performance, production, and business;
- explain the importance of copyright laws and intellectual property protections for musicians.
Performance, Analysis, and Meaning
- analyze how composers use tempo, dynamics, harmony, and form to communicate meaning;
- evaluate how musical choices affect the listener’s interpretation and emotional response;
- reflect on how music supports communities and connects people across time and place.
Choose Curriculum
Exploring Music I
Ever wonder how people make music? In this course, you’ll not only investigate musical instruments, composers, styles, and concepts, you’ll explore how it’s used all around the world! You will learn about how musical genres have developed throughout time and in different places, and you’ll dig into how music is created, performed, and experienced. You’ll even have the chance to make some tunes of your own!
Online
Items
| Name | Kind | ISBN | Returnable | Shared |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middle School Exploring Music I | Online Class | No | No |