I feel that I have started every blog off by saying how busy I have been and honestly, this blog is no different. I am in charge of the school concert this year so school is rather hectic getting that all into gear as well as sorting doing my term planning for class. This is all-over and above my varsity work so it really does feel like I am being pulled in a million different directions. In some ways, varsity work did take a slight break with recess but we still have lots of assignments and tests dues which can sometimes feel like it is never-ending.

Being a teacher already with several years of experience I definitely understand the importance of assessment and it was great to read through the information in the Study Unit and be reminded about all the different aspects that it entails. I also found it interesting to read through the food for thought and suggestions when for when it comes to planning a music lesson.

Reflection

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

I think assessment for performing arts and music can often be overlooked as teachers often have the view that it is not as important as the languages, mathematics as well as other more traditional subjects that are taught. The general view of traditional old school education is not one of encouraging the arts but focusing more on languages, the sciences as well as mathematics.  I think another reason that it may be overlooked is that the teachers themselves are not interested or are not knowledgeable enough to be able to assess the children or even know what to look for when assessing.

• 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 agree with the notion that that assessment is important in all subjects and Performing Arts and Music are no exception. When talking to the HOD I would make sure that I voiced my opinions clearly and respectfully and in a way that would not seem like I think I know better than they do. I would explain that I believe that Performing arts and Music have so many benefits for the children and can really be applied to so many aspects of the curriculum, not only in their set lessons. When it comes to assessment I believe that it is important to be able to give the children and parents feedback on how their children are doing in all aspects of the school curriculum. Another reason is that Performing Arts and Music falls under life skills and incorporates so many of the fundamental life skills that children need to learn and develop while in our care, so by assessing these we can ensure that the children have been able to grasp those skills.

 

In the end, I know that teachers have such varying views on what they believe that children should and shouldn’t learn and some teachers put more emphasis on some things than others. We as teachers need to be able to develop the children as a whole and expose them to as much as we can, and I believe that the Performing Arts and Music is an essential part of the curriculum.