Somerset Academy-Losee

Choir Course Description

Mr. Cook
joseph.cook@somersetnv.org
This is a class for kids who love to sing, perform, and learn about music! We have an exciting year ahead
of us, and a beautiful new campus. In choir, students will learn how to create a good vocal sound and
experience the energy and excitement of performing with other students! We will sing in a variety of
musical styles.
Course Objectives
Students will have the opportunity to:
sing a variety of styles of music (may include pop, broadway, folk, and classical)
develop skills of healthy vocal technique including proper posture and breathing
learn to read rhythm
learn musical terminology
IMPORTANT: THERE IS A $25 FEE FOR THIS COURSE TO HELP COVER THE COSTS OF SHEET MUSIC AND
FOLDERS.
Performances and Concerts
We will have a number of performances this year. Below is a tentative list of concert dates. I will keep
you informed by sending information home if there are changes or additions to this list.
September 15, 2014 Losee Open House, (4:15 p.m. call time, 5:00 performance)
October 8, 2014 Ribbon-cutting Ceremony (time TBA)
December 18 Holiday Concert, 6:00 pm
March 17 3
rd
Quarter Concert, 6:00 pm
May 29 Spring Concert, 6:00 pm
Performances may include after school concerts, assemblies, and community events. Participation in
performances represents a substantial portion of a students grade (see Grading Plan below). Dress
requirements for performances will be announced.
Class Rules
In order to have a good learning environment, we have a simple set of rules, most of which will already
be familiar:
1. Follow Instructions.
2. Stay in assigned seat or place unless asked to do otherwise.
3. Raise your hand and wait to be called on before speaking.
4. Keep mouth empty. (This includes gum or anything else.)
Cell phones and other electronic devices are not to be used or visible during class or at performances.
Other Expectations
Observance of classroom procedures including self-starting each class period
Please plan ahead to take care of bathroom breaks before or after class so that we can devote
the entire period to learning and to avoid distractions.
Backpacks and other personal items are to remain under seats during class.
If a student is sick or otherwise unable to use his or her voice in singing, the student should
notify the teacher immediately when entering the classroom to be given an alternate
assignment so they can still earn participation points for that day.
Some of the items in my classroom belong to me personally. These items are not to be touched,
taken, or borrowed.
Students should remember that the teacher, not the bell, dismisses the class.
Classroom Management Procedures
If a student chooses to break a rule or otherwise disrupt learning, the following steps will be taken:
Step 1: student warning
Step 2: student warning
Step 3: parent communication
Step 4: counselor referral
Step 5: office referral

GRADING PLAN (subject to modification if needed)
Participation (includes participation in class and other assignments) 75%
Concerts and other Performances 25%
Late Work
Late work will receive a 10% reduction in value per school day late. After five school days, the
assignment may not be accepted.
Please feel free to contact me at any time with questions, comments, or concerns! My email is
joseph.cook@somersetnv.org.
Thank you for your support! I look forward to a great year!
Sincerely,


Joseph Cook
Parents Statement of Support
I have read the course description for choir at Somerset-Losee. As ___________________s parent or
guardian, I agree to support my child in following the Class Rules and Other Expectations listed. I
understand and accept the Grading Plan, and agree to support my childs punctuality and attendance at
performances.

Parents Signature__________________________________________Date________________________

Students Statement of Support
I agree to follow the expectations outlined in this course description under Class Rules and Other
Expectations. I also agree to attend and be punctual at performances. I agree to the Grading Plan
explained in this course description.

Students Signature_________________________________________Date________________________