SU 5:

Hello bloggers.

There is a saying that says, “the night is always darker towards the dawn.”  We are almost at the finishing line and things are getting much harder. The anxiety and workload are really starting to get to most of us. However, we soldier on.

In all honesty, study unit 5 is the hardest of them all. It is quite challenging to the extend that it requires one to critically think of a real-life situation. Nonetheless, I tried to answer the reflective questions as follows.

• What could the possible reasons be that assessment is neglected in Performing Arts and Music in the Foundation Phase?

In most instances, teacher’s perception and attitudes towards performing arts and music in general is negative. They do not regard performing arts and music as a necessity and hence, will not make the assessment of performing arts and music a priority. Some teacher’s knowledge of how to incorporate music and performing arts into the classroom could be inadequate and that leads to him/her just simply not including it into the lessons which then has the effect of no assessment of performing arts and music.  Some teachers make no effort or time for performing arts and music because they do not value it at all.

• Please explain how you would advocate for and heighten awareness about the importance of assessment when speaking with your HOD about your concerns in this regard.

I would advocate and heighten awareness about the importance of assessment by informing her that the assessment is beneficial to both the learner and the teacher. Assessment enables the learner to reflect on their own progress and lets the teacher keep record of the learner’s progress. It also shows the teacher where the learner still struggles which then enables the teacher to help the learner in a more specific way that caters to the specific learner. This will also help show the teacher where she needs to improve. I would also show her the possible methods and ways that she can use to assess the learners, thus in return, the teacher will be assessing her own progress and teaching abilities when it comes to performing arts and music.