Woodmill High School S3 S4 course choice booklet subject info | Page 49

Course Structure and Conditions of Award
All courses are made up from four units including the added value unit. Each of the component units is
designed to provide progression to the corresponding unit at the next level.
Units are statements of standards for assessment and not programmes of learning and teaching. As a result
they may be delivered in a variety of ways.

Assessment
All units are internally assessed at a pass/fail within centres. SQA will provide rigorous external quality
assurance and verification to ensure assessments meet national standards.
Composing criteria: Pupils will have to create their own original piece which demonstrates an understanding
of a range of compositional skills and techniques prescribed by the SQA.
Understanding music: Evidence will be required that pupils can demonstrate knowledge and understanding
of a range of music concepts and musical literacy. Most likely in the form of a written paper.
Practical Activity: Evidence will be required that the learner, through regular practice and reflection has
developed technical and musical performing skills on their chosen instruments while exploring a range of
music.
Performing skills: Learners will draw on, and extend the skills learned throughout the course. They will be
required to perform a programme of music on each instrument/voice. Pupils will have to present their
performances and demonstrate some knowledge and understanding of the music they are performing. This
may be externally assessed.
To gain a Course award: Pupils must pass all units, plus:
From National 4 to Advanced Higher, there will also be a question paper. This will require pupils to
demonstrate a depth of knowledge and understanding of musical concepts and musical literacy drawn from
the units within the course.

Progression
These courses or their components may provide progression to:
•

Other SQA qualifications in music or related areas at the next level

•

Further study, employment or training

All courses provide opportunities for learners to develop breadth, challenge and application, but the balance
of the assessment will be appropriate for the subject area.

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