MUSIC 1010A - Theory of Music I MS Pt 1

North Terrace Campus - Semester 1 - 2015

Consolidation and extension of the basic concepts and structures underlying Western music and Western music theory, including the application of the Western music notation system. Introduction to analysis and composition in a range of stylistic contexts.

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code MUSIC 1010A
    Course Theory of Music I MS Pt 1
    Coordinating Unit Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music
    Term Semester 1
    Level Undergraduate
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Contact 3 x 1 hour lectures or equivalent per week
    Available for Study Abroad and Exchange N
    Prerequisites MUSIC 4 A/B or equivalent
    Restrictions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students only
    Course Description Consolidation and extension of the basic concepts and structures underlying Western music and Western music theory, including the application of the Western music notation system. Introduction to analysis and composition in a range of stylistic contexts.
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Mr Anthony Pak Poy

    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from Course Planner.

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    1. Knowledge and understanding of the concepts and structures of Western music theory (as outlined in the course content)
    2. The ability to communicate a range of musical ideas (as outlined in the course content), particularly through the use of Western music theory and notation
    3. Introductory skills in musical analysis using the concepts and structures of Western music theory
    4. A competent understanding of, and ability to apply, analytical listening skills in music.
    5. A developing overview of the way that the various concepts and structures in Western music theory relate to each other
    6. An introductory understanding of the strengths and limitations of Western music theory and notation as a system for understanding and communicating musical ideas
    7. Basic keyboard skills, including an understanding of the way that theoretical concepts are applied on the keyboard
    8. A clear understanding of, and ability to apply, effective learning strategies and problem solving skills in relation to the course material
    9. The ability to use a variety of resource materials to further understanding and skills relevant to this course
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
    The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 8,9
    An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems. 8
    A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 8,9
  • Learning Resources
    Required Resources

    Course booklets, course notes provided in class

    Recommended Resources

    Computer, desktop, laptop or tablet with music DAW software (eg Protools, Logic, Cubase), Sibelius and Auralia

    The following books may be of interest to Theory IMS students:

    Benward, B. and White, G. 1990. Music in Theory and Practice (Vol. 1) Iowa USA: Wm. C. Brown Publishers

    Bryce, E. 1997. Harmony - A New Bridge from Traditional to Jazz-Related Concepts (Revised edition Ed. Jenny Rosevear) Balhannah SA: Noble House of Australia

    Clarke, B. 1982. Jazz Studies - A Study Manual for all Instruments (Vol. 1) Melbourne: Allans Music Australia Pty. Ltd.

    Griffin, M. 1997. Modern Harmony Methodology for Senior Secondary Students Somerton Park SA

    Grove, D. 1985. The Encyclopedia of Basic Harmony and Theory Applied to Improvisation(Vol. I) California USA: Alfred Publishing Co., Inc.

    Holland, D. 1994. Master Your Theory Grade 2 EMI Publishing

    Wyatt, K. and Schroeder, C. 1998. Harmony and Theory – A Comprehensive Source for All Musicians Milwaukee USA: Hal Leonard Corporation

    Online Learning

    Please refer regularly to My Uni for updates and course information. Further information will be provided in course notes when applicable

  • Learning & Teaching Activities
    Learning & Teaching Modes

    Three one-hour seminar style classes per week. Two classes per week incorporate teaching and directed discussion about theoretical concepts, practical learning activities (such as written exercises, composition exercises, and aural awareness and listening activities), the development of relevant problem solving skills and learning strategies, and the completion of assessment tests and assignments. As scheduled, one class per week focuses on the development of practical keyboard and music reading skills.

    Students are expected to use the course material provided (course booklets and course notes) for personal study

    Workload

    The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.

    The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.

    There are three contact hours per week for this course. In addition to attending the timetabled lectures, students are expected to undertake private study for an average of six hours per week consisting of completion of homework tasks, keyboard practice, review of lecture notes, completion of assignments, and continuous revision including revision for individual tests and examinations

    Learning Activities Summary

    Week 1: Key signatures and intervals

    Major scales, key signatures and intervals, and then introduces compound intervals.

    Week 2 & 3:Rhythm, meter and rhythmic notation

    Rhythm, meter and rhythmic notation (including note and rest durations, time signatures, and notational conventions).

    Week 4-6 Harmony - Major Keys

    Review of the various kinds of triads and seventh chords, harmony built on the Major scale, tonality, harmonic progressions within a Major key (including the use of harmonic analysis symbols)

    Week 6 -8 Harmony – Chord Voicings – Extended Chords and other chords

    Chord voicings and inversions, (with a brief introduction to part writing and voice leading), the use of formulae or ‘spellings’ for chords, (with a brief introduction to the construction of extended chords and other chords)

    Week 8 -10: Tonality, relative Major and minor keys, minor scales

    Tonality, minor keys and minor scales, and the relationship between relative Major and minor keys.

    Week 10-12 Harmony - minor keys

    Harmony built on the natural minor and harmonic minor scales. Harmonic progressions in minor keys

    Keyboard Skills

    Regular weekly class in the Keyboard Suite

    Specific Course Requirements

    Please check My Uni regularly for any updates

  • Assessment

    The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:

    1. Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
    2. Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
    3. Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
    4. Assessment must maintain academic standards.

    Assessment Summary

    Assessment will comprise the following:

    Assessment taskType of assessmentPercentage of total assessment for grading purposesOutcomes being assessed

    Test

    formative and summative 25% 1,2,5,6,8

    Test

    formative and summative 25% 1-3,6-9

     Participation/Class Activities

    formative and summative 10% 1-9

    Examination

    formative and summative 40% 1-9

    Assessment Related Requirements

    Students are expected to attend and participate in all scheduled classes and to complete all assignments by the due date. Students are normally required to attend 70% of scheduled classes to be eligible for final assessment in this course

    Assessment Detail

    Test Semester 1, Weighting 25%
    A ‘closed book’ test in which students are required to demonstrate knowledge of topics covered during the term. Students will be required to demonstrate that they have memorised key concepts. Ihr duration. This test is both formative and summative.

    Test Semester 1, Weighting 25%
    An ‘open book’ test in which students are required to demonstrate knowledge of topics covered during the term. Students are able to use course notes and their own notes. Ihr duration. This test is both formative and summative.

    Participation/Class Activites Semester 1, 10%
    A series of practical activities and exercises undertaken in class to assist understanding of the topics covered. This assessment component is both formative and summative.

    Examination Semester 1, Weighting 40%
    A ‘closed book’ examination at the end of the Semester in which students are required to demonstrate knowledge of topics covered during the Semester. Students will be required to demonstrate that they have memorised key concepts. 3hr duration. This exam is both formative and summative.*

    Submission

    80% of the assessment in this course is based on tests and exams, undertaken either during scheduled class time or during the Examination Weeks at the end of each Semester. (See Assessment Summary above)

    Modified Arrangements for Coursework Assessment: Extensions, Replacement Examinations, and Additional Assessment

    In accordance with the principle that course assessment must be fair and equitable, course assessment practices may be modified under specific eligibility conditions as follows:

    • Assessment Task Extensions
    For eligible students whose capacity to demonstrate their true level of competence in an assessment task was, is or will be seriously impaired because of medical, compassionate or extenuating circumstances.

    • Replacement Examinations

    For eligible students whose capacity to demonstrate their true level of competence in a final examination was, is or will be seriously impaired because of medical, compassionate or extenuating circumstances.

    • Additional Assessments

    A second opportunity for eligible students who obtain a Fail grade in a course to demonstrate the required skills, knowledge and other course outcomes

    Students may be eligible for modified course assessment on grounds of MEDICAL, COMPASSIONATE or EXTENUATING circumstance. Details of eligibility criteria are contained in the University’s Modified Arrangements for Coursework Assessment Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/3303/)

    Where a student wishes to apply for modified arrangements for their coursework assessment, they are required to submit a written application using the appropriate CASM Modified Arrangements for Coursework Assessment form.

    These are available from the CASM Office, or on the desk in Room 603:

    • Form A: Application for Assessment Task Extension
    • Form B: Application to Undertake Replacement Assessment: Tests
    • Form C: Application to Undertake Replacement Assessment: Examinations
    • Form D: Application to Undertake Additional Assessment: Last Course
    Form A: Application for Assessment Task Extension:

    Students are required to submit assessment tasks by the due date.

    Application for an extension to the due date for individual assessment tasks (other than tests and examinations) may be made on MEDICAL, COMPASSIONATE or EXTENUATING grounds, and must be submitted at least 5 business days before the due date, or within 5 business days of the exceptional conditions arising, with supporting documentation.

    The form must then be signed by the CASM Head of Programs.

    Extensions will not normally be granted for periods beyond 10 working days, or the last day on which teaching may occur in the relevant teaching period, whichever is earlier.

    Students should note that marks may be deducted for late work. Please consult your lecturers and Course Outlines for details.

    IMPORTANT: Cases in which it is not practicable for extensions to be applied include: assessment tasks that are tightly integrated into teaching; assessment tasks that preclude the granting of additional time (e.g. when the answers have already been released); where the assessment involves a fieldtrip, or a group activity such as a music performance, which cannot readily be approximated or replicated.

    Assessment tasks which are not suitable for extensions are identified in the Course Outline.


    Form B: Application to Undertake Replacement Assessment: Tests

    Application to undertake a replacement test may be made on MEDICAL, COMPASSIONATE or EXTENUATING grounds, and must be submitted for consideration, with supporting documentation, within 5 business days of the initial test.

    The form must then be signed by the CASM Head of Programs.


    Form C: Application to Undertake Replacement Assessment: Examinations

    Application to undertake a replacement examination may be made on MEDICAL, COMPASSIONATE or EXTENUATING grounds, and must be submitted for consideration, with supporting documentation, within 5 business days of the initial examination.

    The form must then be signed by the CASM Head of Programs.

    Form D: Application to Undertake Additional Assessment: Last Course

    Provision is made for modified assessment for students who have failed only one single course that is required to complete a program level. Such provisions are made on an individual basis to enable students to complete or graduate in a given year.

    Application may be made for additional assessment to enable completion of the last course required for program completion. The additional assessment task may not necessarily be an examination, but can be a task which will give the student a second chance to demonstrate they have achieved the course learning outcomes.

    Permission for additional assessment is normally only granted for students who have met the attendance requirements of the course and who have completed (not necessarily passed) the required assessment tasks throughout the teaching year. Please note under these provisions the final assessment task will be weighed at more than 20% of the total course assessment.

    The form must then be signed by the CASM Head of Programs.

    Exceptions: In certain circumstances, the CASM Examiners’ Committee, in consultation with the Course Coordinator, may grant modified arrangements where a student’s underlying mark is below 45% (ie. Completion of Program Offer - CASM Bridging Program).

    Please note: The maximum mark/grade for a course for which an Additional Assessment is granted is 50 Pass or Non-Graded Pass in accord with the University’s approved Mark and Grade Schemes


    Final Mark Supplementary Assessment Provisions

    In exceptional circumstances students may be offered, at the discretion of the CASM Examiner's Committee, the opportunity to complete supplementary work after receipt of a final Fail grade for the course. Such permission is normally only granted for students who have met the attendance requirements of the course and who have made a satisfactory effort to fulfill the assessment requirements throughout the teaching year. Requests for supplementary assessment must be made in writing to the CASM Coordinator (Academic Programs) within one week of receipt of final results.

    Assessment Feedback

    All assessments will be returned to students within four weeks of the assessment being submitted for marking, with the exception of the final assessment in this course. Students are provided with feedback on each assessment, and on their attendance. Students meet individually with the course coordinator at the start of Semester 2 and at the start of Term 4, Semester 2 to discuss their academic progress in the course. The course coordinator is also available by appointment to discuss with a student their academic progress.

    For further information regarding attendance and assessment, please see the 2013 Foundation Year Handbook, 2013 Adelaide University Calendar Part 1 (Undergraduate) and the 2013 Adelaide University Student Guide and Handbook. If applicable, areas must provide details on submission process/requirements (e.g. specification for electronic submission of essays, the use of cover-sheets, location for physical submission of practical reports, specification of submission through TURNITIN); requires specification of penalty for late submission and approach to granting of extensions to due dates; any penalties for inaccurately stating the word count of a submitted assignment should also be specified; requires indication of staff “turn-around” timeline on assessments and the provision of feedback to students; requires specification of approach to re-submission/redemption of work. Detail can also be provided on supplementary examination/assessment opportunities

    Course Grading

    Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:

    NOG (No Grade Associated)
    Grade Description
    CN Continuing

    Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.

    Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.

    Final results for this course will be made available through Access Adelaide.

  • Student Feedback

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.

  • Student Support
  • Policies & Guidelines
  • Fraud Awareness

    Students are reminded that in order to maintain the academic integrity of all programs and courses, the university has a zero-tolerance approach to students offering money or significant value goods or services to any staff member who is involved in their teaching or assessment. Students offering lecturers or tutors or professional staff anything more than a small token of appreciation is totally unacceptable, in any circumstances. Staff members are obliged to report all such incidents to their supervisor/manager, who will refer them for action under the university's student’s disciplinary procedures.

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