GCSE Music Spec 2012

Specifcation
Edexcel GCSE in Music (2MU01)

For frst certifcation 2014
Issue 3
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Pearson Education Limited 2012
Edexcel GCSE in Music Specication Pearson Education Limited 2012 1
Introduction
The Edexcel GCSE in Music is designed for use in schools and colleges. It is part of a suite of GCSE
qualifcations offered by Edexcel.
About this specication
This new Edexcel GCSE in Music has been developed after considerable consultation with relevant
stakeholders. Prominent among these are music teachers whose views and advice have, where
possible, been acted on. The structure of the new qualifcation is largely unaltered.
The main features are:
it continues the philosophy of the current specifcation in music
it is fexible and encourages the use of a diversity of approaches when teaching music
it offers a broad range of Areas of Study
the Areas of Study now include set works that will remain in place throughout the life of the
specifcation
it allows the use of music technology in performance and as a compositional tool
it is good preparation for further musical study and provides a foundation for Advanced
Subsidiary and Advanced GCE in Music and Music Technology
it encourages students to evaluate their own and others music
it encourages students to become effective and independent learners and critical and refective
thinkers.
Key subject aims
The Edexcel GCSE in Music specifcation should:
encourage students to be inspired, moved and changed by following a broad, coherent,
satisfying and worthwhile course of study
develop broader life skills and attributes, including critical and creative thinking, aesthetic
sensitivity, emotional awareness, cultural understanding, self-discipline, self-confdence and
self-motivation
enable students to engage actively in the study of music
develop musical skills and interests, including the ability to make music individually and in
groups
enable students to understand and appreciate a range of different kinds of music.
2
Contents
Edexcel GCSE in Music Specication Pearson Education Limited 2012
Specication at a glance 4
A
Qualication content 6
List of unit contents 7
Unit 1: Performing Music 8
Overview 8
Detailed unit content 10
Application of the assessment criteria grids 14
Unit 2: Composing Music 44
Overview 44
Application of the assessment criteria grids: Composing 48
Application of the assessment criteria grids: Arranging 53
Unit 3: Music Listening and Appraising 59
Overview 59
B
Assessment 63
Assessment summary 63
Assessment Objectives and weightings 64
Relationship of Assessment Objectives to units 64
Entering your students for assessment 64
Student entry 64
Forbidden combinations and classication code 65
Access arrangements and special requirements 65
Equality Act 2010 65
Controlled assessment 66
Summary of conditions for controlled assessment 66
Internal standardisation 67
Authentication 67
Contents
3 Edexcel GCSE in Music Specication Pearson Education Limited 2012
Further information 67
Assessing your students 68
Awarding and reporting 68
Unit results 68
Qualication results 69
Re-taking of qualications 70
Language of assessment 70
Quality of Written Communication 70
Stretch and challenge 71
Malpractice and plagiarism 71
Student recruitment 71
Progression 71
Grade descriptions 72
C
Resources, support and training 73
Edexcel resources 73
Edexcel publications 73
Endorsed resources 73
Edexcel support services 74
Training 75
D
Appendices 76
Appendix 1 Key skills 77
Development suggestions 77
Appendix 2 Wider curriculum 78
Appendix 3 Codes 80
Specication at a glance
The Edexcel GCSE in Music comprises three units.
Unit 1: Performing Music *Unit code: 5MU01
Internally assessed
Availability: June series
30% of
the total
GCSE
Overview of content
One solo performance
One ensemble performance
Overview of assessment
Recordings of both solo and ensemble performances (on CD/MD/MP3)
Scores, professional recordings or written commentary (for Realisation) for both performances
Unit 2: Composing Music *Unit code: 5MU02
Internally assessed
30% of
the total
GCSE
Overview of content
Two compositions, or
Two arrangements, or
One composition and one arrangement
Recordings of both compositions/arrangements (on CD/MD/MP3)
Notated scores or written commentaries for both compositions/arrangements
*See Appendix 3 for a description of this code and all other codes relevant to this qualifcation.
5
Specication at a glance
Unit 3: Music Listening and Appraising *Unit code: 5MU03
Externally assessed
40% of
the total
GCSE
Overview of content
Knowledge and study of set works in the Areas of Study
A 1-hour and 30-minute written paper
All questions relate to the set works
The paper will be in two sections
Section A: eight compulsory questions in response to extracts from the set works that will be
played on a CD during the examination (68 marks)
Section B: one question from two optional questions on the set works, requiring extended
writing (12 marks)
A total of 80 marks for the paper.
*See Appendix 3 for a description of this code and all other codes relevant to this qualifcation.
A Qualication content
The specifcation content is defned by four Areas of Study. Each
Area of Study includes three set works that will be the subject of the
examination in Unit 3. The compositions in Unit 2 will be defned by the
following Areas of Study.
Area of Study 1 Area of Study 2 Area of Study 3 Area of Study 4
Western classical music
1600-1899
Music in the 20th
century
Popular music in context World music
Set works
G F Handel: Chorus:
And The Glory of The
Lord from Messiah,
HWV 56
A Schoenberg: Peripetie
from Five Orchestral
Pieces, Op. 16
M Davis: All Blues from
the album Kind of Blue
Capercaillie: Chuir
MAthair Mise Dhan Taigh
Charraideach (Skye
Waulking Song) from the
album Ndurra
W A Mozart:1st
Movement from
Symphony No. 40 in G
minor, K. 550
L Bernstein:
Somethings Coming
from West Side Story
J Buckley: Grace from
the album Grace
Rag Desh
Suggested listening:
A Shankar: Rag Desh
from the album Live at
Carnegie Hall
S D Dhandhada
and H Dhandhada:
Rag Desh from the
album Mewar Re Mira
B Wertheimer and
S Gorn: Rag Desh
Parts 1-3 from the
album Priyagitah: The
Nightingale
F Chopin: Prelude No 15
in D fat major, Op. 28
S Reich: 3rd Movement
(fast) from Electric
Counterpoint
Moby: Why Does My
Heart Feel So Bad? from
the album Play
Koko: Yiri
7
Qualication content A
List of unit contents
Unit 1: Performing Music 8
Unit 2: Composing Music 44
Unit 3: Music Listening and Appraising 59
8
Unit 1
Unit 1: Performing Music
Overview
Content overview
In this unit students develop their performing skills in both a solo and
ensemble context. They should be given the opportunity to rehearse
and refne performances in their chosen discipline or genre, developing
technical control, expression and interpretative skills.
This unit will encourage students to develop creative thinking, aesthetic
sensitivity, critical awareness, self-confdence, self-motivation and their
own musical interests and skills, including the ability to make music
individually and in groups.
Assessment overview
Students will perform/realise one solo performance of their own choice in
any style or genre, with or without accompaniment as appropriate to the
style of music. The performance may be:
a solo performance on any instrument
a solo improvisation on any instrument
a sequenced performance
a realisation such as a performance with DJ decks/turntables or a live
sound diffusion of electro-acoustic music.
Students will perform a piece in any genre or style as part of an
ensemble performance. The performance may be:
performing an undoubled part within an ensemble
improvising as part of an ensemble
rehearsing and directing an ensemble
presenting a multi-track recording.
The ensemble performance may be on a different instrument/voice or in
a different discipline to that of the solo performance any combination
of the various solo and ensemble performance options is acceptable.
9
Unit 1
There is no minimum duration for either performance, but pieces should
be of suffcient length and complexity to give the performer adequate
opportunity to showcase their abilities. Neither performance should
exceed fve minutes.
Students should understand the contextual infuences affecting the
composition of the pieces they are performing, including the composers
intentions regarding the venue and nature of the performance and any
important cultural infuences relating to the composition of the piece.
Students should listen to how established performers communicate
within their chosen style. They should appraise their own use of
articulation, phrasing and dynamic contrast in the light of these
performances and refect this in the interpretation of their chosen
performance pieces. This wider study will enable them to access the full
range of marks within the interpretation assessment grids.
Students do not need to perform pieces from the same Area of Study
as their compositions. However, they may choose to perform their own
compositions.
Performances may be completed at any time during the course. At an
appropriate point during the course, the performances will be recorded
and assessed by the teacher-examiner. At the end of the course a sample
of performances must be made available for moderation on CD/MD/MP3.
Scores, recordings and written commentaries
A score or professional recording of each performance piece must be
made available to the moderator. Performances that are not accompanied
by acceptable scores or recordings will not be assessed.
For solo improvisation and improvising as part of an ensemble, the
stimulus must be submitted in lieu of a score. For realisation, students
must submit a written commentary outlining performance detail and
intentions in lieu of a score.
Where changes have been made to facilitate performance, scores should
be annotated. If the students performance differs from the professional
recording, any changes should be documented and presented to the
moderator along with the professional recording.
Controlled conditions
Students must be supervised regularly when preparing their
performances. Students have a maximum of 10 hours to complete each
recording under teacher supervision.
Reference should be made to page 66 for further guidance on the
administration of controlled assessment.
A signed authentication statement must accompany all submissions.
10
Unit 1
Detailed unit content
Approaches to solo performing
Traditional performance
A solo performance is considered to be a piece in which the students
part is undoubled and plays a signifcant or leading role. It is acceptable
for the accompaniment to occasionally double the solo line, but excessive
doubling must be avoided. Backing tracks are acceptable but the part to
be assessed must not be audible as part of the backing track.
The performance may be on any instrument or voice in any style or
genre. Students who play instruments for which traditional solo music is
diffcult to obtain may play as part of a group provided they clearly play
a leading or signifcant role within the group.
Solo improvisation
Students can present a performance which is an improvisation based
on a stimulus. The stimulus can be from any style or genre and could
be a melody, rhythm, chord sequence or a visual stimulus. It can be
composed by the student or provided by the class or instrumental
teacher. The improvisation can be in any style or genre and does
not need to be in the same style or genre as the stimulus. Some
improvisational styles of performance, including those involving the
passing on of music through the aural tradition, will be more suited to
this performance option.
Any piece presented for moderation as a solo improvisation must be
accompanied by a copy of the stimulus (in lieu of a score) either in staff
notation, any other suitable notation or as an audio recording.
A traditional performance piece involving a signifcant element of
improvisation (for example a 12-bar blues with an extended guitar solo)
may be best assessed using the criteria for solo improvisation rather
than those for traditional performance.
11
Unit 1
Sequenced performance
A sequenced performance is considered to be a musical item composed
by someone other than the student, which has been input into a MIDI
sequencer. Students own compositions, which have been sequenced,
may be presented as performances, but are considered to be realisations
(see below). Teachers can provide their own arrangement of a piece as
a stimulus for this task. All data input and editing must be the students
own work. In cases where the student wishes to use pre-existing loops
or audio samples the piece would be considered a realisation rather than
a sequenced performance.
A sequence must contain at least three individual, simultaneously
sounding, independent parts.
Any program capable of capturing and manipulating MIDI information
can be used for this option. Teacher-examiners should provide details of
the software used for the performance.
A score or professional recording must be provided for the moderator to
assess the accuracy of the performance.
Realisation
A realisation is a performance where it is not appropriate to assess
accuracy using the standard accuracy descriptors. Examples of
realisations include:
sequenced compositions
DJ performances using decks/turntables
live electro-acoustic sound diffusions
performances passed on by the oral tradition which do not fall under
the solo improvisation or traditional performance headings
student performances of their own compositions where it has not been
appropriate to produce a score with suffcient performance detail to
assess accuracy of pitch and rhythm.
Students must provide a written commentary outlining performance
details and intentions in lieu of a score or professional recording. They
should include as much detail as possible to allow the teacher-examiner
and moderator to make a fair and accurate judgement on the quality of
the performance. Pieces submitted without written commentaries will not
be assessed. Teacher-examiners should make more detailed comments
justifying their marking than would normally be expected when a score
or professional recording is available.
12
Unit 1
Approaches to ensemble performing
Traditional performance
An ensemble performance must consist of two or more people
performing undoubled, simultaneously sounding, independent parts, with
or without additional backing or accompaniment as appropriate.
Where a soloist is accompanied by another instrument, such as the
piano, the accompanist may submit this performance as an ensemble but
the soloist may not.
Performances with other players may take place in the classroom, in
centre music groups or outside of the centre but they must all be in the
presence of the teacher-examiner when recording the performance that
will be assessed.
The teacher-examiner must clearly indicate which part of the ensemble is
to be assessed.
Ensemble improvisation
When a piece fulfls the criteria for an ensemble performance and also
includes a signifcant element of improvisation it is considered to be an
ensemble improvisation. In this case the score would be submitted as
for a traditional performance along with the stimulus for the improvised
sections.
Where a performance involves a signifcant element of improvisation
from most/all of the players involved, the improvisation stimulus can be
submitted in lieu of a score.
Rehearsing and directing
Students can offer rehearsing and directing as an ensemble performance.
They are expected to display thorough preparation of the score and
communicate effectively with the ensemble in both the rehearsal and
performance stages.
The ensemble must consist of three or more performers and should not
include the student.
A score of the piece to be performed along with a DVD, including the full
performance and 2-5 minutes of a rehearsal, must be made available for
the moderator.
13
Unit 1
Multi-track recording
Multi-track recording is considered to be a piece in which the student
has been in sole charge of the recording procedure from the placement
of microphones and set-up of equipment through to the recording
of the ensemble to mixdown and fnal production of a stereo mix. It
must include at least one audio track captured by the student using a
microphone.
The student may act solely as engineer and producer (where they do not
perform any of the live tracks), or they may perform one or more of the
live tracks. Students can include an element of sequencing in their multi-
track recording but they must input all sequenced data themselves.
There must be a minimum of three independent, simultaneously
sounding tracks in the recording (in which any number of sequenced
parts count as up to two tracks in total).
14
Unit 1
Application of the assessment criteria grids
Assessment of this unit is divided into two areas: solo performance and
ensemble performance. Each performance is marked out of 30. The
total marks available for this unit is 60.
Within each of the performance requirements options are available and
the relevant assessment criteria grids must be applied. The options are:
Solo performing
traditional performance
solo improvisation
sequenced performance
realisation
There are two assessment criteria grids available for each option. One
grid has a raw mark of 12 and the other 18. These should be added
together to arrive at a raw mark for the whole option.
Ensemble performing
traditional ensemble performance
ensemble improvisation
rehearsing and directing
multi-track recording
There are two assessment criteria grids available for each option. One
grid has a raw mark of 12 and the other 18. These should be added
together to arrive at a raw mark for the whole option. Where multi-track
recording is offered for assessment one appropriate grid from A, B or C
should be selected and the raw mark added to the mark for grid D.

15
Unit 1
Levels of Difculty grid
Assess the students performance using the appropriate assessment
criteria grids from the solo and ensemble performing options to arrive at
a mark out of 30 (the raw mark).
Assess the Level of Diffculty of the music performed using the
exemplar material on pages 29-43.
Apply the level of diffculty to the raw mark using the grid below.
Raw mark Easier Standard More diffcult
0 0 0 0
1 1 1 1
2 1 2 2
3 1 3 3
4 1 4 4
5 1 5 5
6 2 6 6
7 3 7 8
8 4 8 9
9 5 9 11
10 6 10 12
11 7 11 14
12 8 12 15
13 9 13 17
14 10 14 18
15 11 15 19
16 12 16 20
17 13 17 21
18 14 18 22
19 15 19 23
20 16 20 24
21 17 21 25
22 18 22 26
23 19 23 27
24 20 24 28
25 21 25 29
26 22 26 30
27 23 27 30
28 23 28 30
29 23 29 30
30 23 30 30
16
Unit 1
Solo performing traditional performance
Accuracy (of pitch and rhythm)
Assessment criteria Level of response Mark range
AO1 Excellent The performance is accurate and fuent. Any slips are
inconsequential.
Intonation is secure.
11-12
Good The performance is mainly accurate and fuent. There are only
occasional small slips.
Intonation is mostly secure.
9-10
Competent The performance is broadly accurate and fuent although errors
may interrupt the fow.
Intonation is often secure.
6-8
Basic Accuracy is only achieved in the more straightforward
passages. Fluency is repeatedly affected by errors.
Intonation is insecure.
3-5
Limited Accuracy and fuency are only occasionally evident.
Intonation is poor throughout.
1-2
Unachieved There is no rewardable material. 0
An appropriate stimulus must be supplied to allow assessment of accuracy for both pitch and
rhythm.
Interpretation
AO1 Excellent A convincing and stylish performance. A secure sense of style
with detailed attention to articulation, phrasing and dynamic
contrast.
15-18
Good A good performance which has a clear, but perhaps not always
convincing, sense of style. The music is well conveyed and
opportunities are taken to shape the music with articulation,
phrasing and dynamic contrast.
11-14
Competent A generally successful performance an awareness of style
is displayed during some expressive passages. There is some
shaping of the music through articulation, phrasing and
dynamic contrast.
7-10
Basic An adequate performance demonstrating a basic awareness of
style with few attempts to shape the music through articulation,
phrasing and dynamic contrast.
4-6
Limited The performance demonstrates no conscious sense of style,
displaying little understanding of how to shape the music
through articulation, phrasing or dynamic contrast.
1-3
17
Unit 1
Solo performing solo improvisation
Use of the stimulus/fuency
AO1 Excellent The stimulus is exploited with complete fuency and imagination
showing contrast, development, a sound sense of structure and
the potential of the instrument. Intonation is secure.
11-12
Good The stimulus is exploited with considerable fuency and
imagination, showing contrast, development, sense of structure
and awareness of the potential of the instrument. Intonation is
mostly secure.
9-10
Competent Exploitation of the stimulus demonstrating some aspects of
fuency and imagination, showing contrast, development, sense
of structure and awareness of the potential of the instrument.
6-8
Basic The response to the stimulus lacks any exploitation of the original
idea. It is affected by excessive repetition, hesitancy and shows
little sense of structure and minimal awareness of the potential of
the instrument. Intonation is insecure.
3-5
Limited The stimulus is largely ignored. Intonation is poor throughout. 1-2
The stimulus used for the improvisation (ie melodic or rhythmic motif or chord progression) must
be supplied to allow assessment of its use in the improvisation.
Interpretation
AO1 Excellent A convincing and stylish performance demonstrating a secure
sense of style with detailed attention to articulation, phrasing and
dynamic contrast.
15-18
Good A good performance which has a clear, but perhaps not always
convincing, sense of style. The meaning of the music is adequately
conveyed and most opportunities are taken to shape the music
with articulation, phrasing and dynamic contrast.
11-14
Competent A generally successful performance. There is some awareness of
style displayed during some expressive passages. There is some
shaping of the music through articulation, phrasing and dynamic
contrast.
7-10
Basic An adequate performance demonstrating a basic awareness
of style with only a few attempts to shape the music through
articulation, phrasing and dynamic contrast.
4-6
Limited The performance demonstrates no conscious sense of style and
displays little understanding of how to shape the music through
articulation, phrasing or dynamic contrast.
1-3
18
Unit 1
Solo performing sequenced performance
AO1 Excellent An excellent performance in which any slips are
inconsequential.
11-12
Good The performance demonstrates only occasional, small slips
which do not detract from the performance.
9-10
Competent The performance demonstrates some noticeable errors, which
detract from the performance.
6-8
Basic The performance demonstrates signifcant, intrusive errors but
accuracy is achieved in the more straightforward passages.
3-5
Limited The performance is accurate only occasionally and there is no
attention to accuracy of note input.
1-2
rhythm. If the piece to be submitted is a sequenced performance of a students own composition
then the realisation marking grid should be used.
Interpretation (1 Articulation and phrasing, 2 Dynamics, 3 Timbre, 4 Panning)
AO1 Excellent A convincing and stylish performance demonstrating detailed
attention to the four areas of interpretation. Dynamics have
been shaped in addition to essential dynamic contrasts.
15-18
Good A good performance demonstrating that attention has been
given to all four areas to produce a musically satisfying
sequence with a sense of style.
11-14
Competent A generally successful performance demonstrating that some
attention has been given to three of the four areas with some
sense of style.
7-10
Basic An adequate performance demonstrating some attention has
been given to two of the four areas with some sense of style.
4-6
Limited A performance demonstrating little evidence of attention to
musical detail or style.
1-3
19
Unit 1
Solo performing realisation
Fluency and control of technical demands
AO1 Excellent The performance is fuent throughout displaying excellent
control of the technical demands of the style.
11-12
Good The performance is fuent displaying good control of the
technical demands of the style.
9-10
Competent The performance displays some control of the technical
demands of the style, although there may be some lack of
fuency.
6-8
Basic Only the more straightforward elements of the performance
are achieved with any degree of fuency. Few of the technical
demands are met.
3-5
Limited None of the technical demands of the performance have been
met with any degree of satisfaction.
1-2
Interpretation
AO1 Excellent A convincing and stylish performance that displays control of all
aspects of interpretation appropriate to the style.
15-18
Good A good performance that displays control of most interpretative
detail as appropriate to the style.
11-14
Competent A generally successful performance that displays control of
some of the interpretative detail as appropriate to the style.
7-10
Basic An adequate performance that displays control of little of the
interpretative detail as appropriate to the style.
4-6
Limited A performance displaying little or no control over any
aspects of interpretative detail or any interpretative detail is
inappropriate to the style.
1-3
Refer to the Realisation section on page 11 for details on the written commentary to be submitted
with this performance.
20
Unit 1
Ensemble performing traditional ensemble performance
AO1 Excellent The performance is accurate and fuent. Any slips are
inconsequential. Intonation is secure.
11-12
Good The performance is mainly accurate and fuent. There are only
occasional small slips. Intonation is mostly secure.
9-10
Competent The performance is broadly accurate and fuent although errors
may interrupt the fow. Intonation is often secure.
6-8
Basic Accuracy is only achieved in the more straightforward
passages. Fluency is repeatedly affected by errors. Intonation
is insecure.
3-5
Limited Accuracy and fuency are only occasionally evident. Intonation
is poor throughout.
1-2
rhythm.
21
Unit 1
Interpretation and ensemble skill
AO1 Excellent A convincing performance demonstrating a secure sense of
style with detailed attention to articulation, phrasing and
dynamic contrast.
The performance demonstrates reaction and adjustment to
other parts and displays an excellent awareness of balance
throughout.
15-18
Good A performance which has a clear, but not always convincing
sense of style. The music is well conveyed and opportunities
are taken to shape the music with articulation, phrasing and
dynamic contrast.
There is generally good reaction and adjustment to other parts
and the performance displays a good awareness of balance
throughout.
11-14
Competent A generally successful performance demonstrating awareness
of style during some expressive passages. There is some
dynamic contrast.
There is occasional diffculty in reacting and adjusting to other
parts although there is some awareness of balance.
7-10
of style with few attempts to shape the music through
There is evidence of diffculty in reacting and adjusting to other
parts and little awareness of balance throughout.
4-6
Limited The performance demonstrates no conscious sense of style and
only scant understanding of how to shape the music through
articulation, phrasing or dynamic contrast.
The performance displays little or no understanding of the
demands of an ensemble performance.
1-3
22
Unit 1
Ensemble performing ensemble improvisation
Use of the stimulus/fuency
AO1 Excellent The stimulus is exploited with complete fuency and
imagination showing contrast, development, a sound sense of
structure and the potential of the instrument.
Intonation is secure.
11-12
Good The stimulus is exploited with considerable fuency and
imagination, showing contrast, development, sense of
structure and awareness of the potential of the instrument.
Intonation is mostly secure.
9-10
Competent Exploitation of the stimulus demonstrating some aspects of
fuency and imagination, showing contrast, development, sense
of structure and awareness of the potential of the instrument.
6-8
Basic The response to the stimulus lacks exploitation of the original
idea. It is affected by excessive repetition, hesitancy, little
sense of structure and minimal awareness of the potential of
the instrument.
Intonation is insecure.
3-5
Limited The stimulus is largely ignored.
Intonation is poor throughout.
1-2
The stimulus used for the improvisation (ie melodic or rhythmic motif or chord progression) must
be supplied to allow assessment of its use in the improvisation.
23
Unit 1
AO1 Excellent A convincing performance demonstrating a secure sense of
style with detailed attention to articulation, phrasing and
dynamic contrast.
The performance demonstrates reaction and adjustment to
other parts and displays an excellent awareness of balance
throughout.
15-18
Good A performance which has a clear, but not always convincing
sense of style. The music is well conveyed and opportunities
are taken to shape the music with articulation, phrasing and
dynamic contrast.
There is generally good reaction and adjustment to other parts
and the performance displays a good awareness of balance
throughout.
11-14
Competent A generally successful performance demonstrating awareness
of style during some expressive passages. There is some
dynamic contrast.
There is occasional diffculty in reacting and adjusting to other
parts although there is some awareness of balance.
7-10
of style with few attempts to shape the music through
There is evidence of diffculty in reacting and adjusting to
other parts and little awareness of balance throughout.
4-6
Limited The performance demonstrates no conscious sense of style
and only scant understanding of how to shape the music
through articulation, phrasing or dynamic contrast.
The performance displays little or no understanding of the
demands of an ensemble performance.
1-3
24
Unit 1
Ensemble performing rehearsing and directing
Preparation
AO1 Excellent The performance is well rehearsed after thoughtful
preparation, exhibiting detailed knowledge of the score.
11-12
Good The performance is well rehearsed, exhibiting reasonable
preparation of the score.
9-10
Competent The performance demonstrates some evidence of rehearsal
with some preparation of the score.
6-8
Basic The performance is poorly rehearsed with scant attention to
preparation of the score.
3-5
Limited The performance demonstrates little or no evidence of any
rehearsal or preparation of the score.
1-2
An appropriate score must be provided for moderation purposes.
25
Unit 1
AO1 Excellent The performance displays an authoritative approach, eliciting
an excellent response from the performers. The correct tempo
is clearly indicated with a precise beat.
There is positive and sensitive control of the entries and
interplay between the parts and of all performance details.
A secure, stylish and idiomatic performance is achieved with
an excellent awareness of balance and tonal quality.
15-18
Good The performance displays a confdent approach, eliciting an
effective response from the performers. The correct tempo is
indicated although the beat is not fully precise.
The entries and interplay between the parts are well controlled
and performance details generally well executed.
The overall performance is generally stylish and refects a
good awareness of balance and tonal quality.
11-14
Competent The beat given is occasionally variable eliciting a less confdent
response from the performers.
Control of the entries is present but not always decisive. Some
of the performance details are observed.
There is some awareness of balance and style.
7-10
Basic The beat given is often variable eliciting a less confdent
Control of the entries is present but rarely decisive. Some of
the performance details are observed.
There is scant awareness of balance and style.
4-6
Limited The beat given is signifcantly variable eliciting an unsure
Control of entries is seldom displayed and few of the
performance details are observed.
There is little awareness of balance and style.
1-3
26
Unit 1
Ensemble performing multi-track recording
The assessment grid used to mark multi-track recording depends on the
students role in the recording. Choose grid A, B or C as appropriate. All
multi-track recordings should be marked using grid D in addition to one
of grids A, B or C.
A Multi-track recording where the student has performed one or more of the live
tracks
Accuracy (mark the best live track performed by the student)
AO1 Excellent The playing is accurate and fuent and any slips are
inconsequential.
11-12
Good The playing is mainly accurate and fuent displaying only
occasional small slips.
9-10
Competent The playing is broadly accurate but there are some small
blemishes which interrupt the fow.
6-8
Basic The playing displays that accuracy is achieved in the more
straightforward passages. At times the accuracy of the music
may be achieved at the expense of fuency and tempo.
3-5
Limited The playing displays little accuracy. 1-2
27
Unit 1
B Multi-track recording where the student has not performed any of the live tracks
Directing skills/unity of ensemble
AO1 Excellent The recording displays an accurate, musical performance.
All tracks are in time and complement each other well.
11-12
Good The recording is mainly accurate with only occasional small slips.
The ensemble between tracks is mainly successful.
9-10
Competent The recording displays some blemishes which detract from the
overall performance.
There is occasional loss of ensemble between tracks.
6-8
Basic The recording displays signifcant, intrusive errors in
performance.
The unity of ensemble is only evident in straightforward
passages.
3-5
Limited The recording displays accuracy in performance only occasionally.
The tracks are out of time with each other.
1-2
C Multi-track recording which mixes sequencing and recording (all sequenced tracks
must have been input by the student)
Accuracy (of pitch and rhythm in sequenced track(s))
AO1 Excellent Excellent any slips are inconsequential. 11-12
Good Occasional, small slips which do not detract from the
performance.
9-10
Competent Some noticeable errors, which detract from the performance. 6-8
Basic Signifcant, intrusive errors evident, but accuracy is achieved in
the more straightforward passages.
3-5
Limited Accuracy is only occasionally evident/no attention to accuracy of
note input.
1-2
See page 28 for assessment criteria grid D.
28
Unit 1
D Recording skills all multi-track recordings must be assessed using this grid in
addition to one of grids A, B or C
AO1 Excellent A convincing, musical recording.
Balance/stereo: all tracks are well balanced and good use has
been made of the stereo feld.
EQ: the full frequency range has been utilised through
judicious use of EQ.
Signal to noise: good signal to noise ratio. No distortion or
other noise.
FX: appropriate and well controlled adds to the recording.
15-18
Good A good recording, but one or two of the following detract
slightly from the overall quality.
Balance/stereo: one of the tracks is overbearing or very quiet/
restricted stereo width.
EQ: one of the tracks is poorly EQed/slight overall problem (eg
lack of brightness/too harsh or boomy).
Signal to noise: some noticeable hiss or occasional noise/
distortion, but not overly intrusive.
FX: slightly overdone/some tracks too dry.
11-14
Competent A generally successful recording, but three or four of the
following detract from the overall quality.
Balance/stereo: one of the tracks is overbearing or very quiet/
restricted stereo width.
EQ: one of the tracks is poorly EQed/slight overall problem (eg
lack of brightness/too harsh or boomy).
Signal to noise: some noticeable hiss or occasional noise/
distortion, but not overly intrusive.
FX: slightly overdone/some tracks too dry.
7-10
Basic An adequate recording, but one or two of the following
signifcantly detract from the overall quality.
Balance/stereo: muddy mix/serious problems with two or more
tracks/no use of panning.
EQ: two or more tracks poorly EQed/serious overall restriction
of frequency range (eg very bassy or trebly recording).
Signal to noise: very hissy or occasional intrusive noise.
FX: inappropriately overdone or none used at all.
4-6
Limited A basic recording little attention has been given to any of the
four areas.
For example, all panned to one side/some instruments cant be
heard at all/extremely quiet recording.
1-3
29
Unit 1
Levels of Difculty for instruments, voice and sequencing
It is not possible to provide examples for all instruments. The following
pages should be used as general guidance.
A best ft approach should be used when determining in which Level
of Diffculty (LoD) a piece falls. A piece may be considered to be more
diffcult if it fulflls fve or more of the more diffcult criteria and the rest
are standard. If one criterion is felt to be easier and another is more
diffcult they would average out as two standard criteria.
Voice
Easier Standard More diffcult
Mainly conjunct melody Some leaps Some awkward intervals
Pitch range less than one octave Pitch range between an octave
and a 10th
Pitch range greater than a 10th
Restricted range of rhythmic
patterns
Some variation in rhythmic
patterns
Some complex rhythmic patterns
No long, sustained phrases.
Regular phrasing throughout
Phrases not all the same length
requiring some breath control
Some long, sustained phrases
requiring good breath control
Syllabic throughout Mainly syllabic with some simple
melismas
Several melismatic sections and/
or fast passages requiring clear
enunciation
Limited opportunity for dynamic
contrasts
Some general dynamic contrasts General dynamic contrasts
including some gradation of
dynamics
Limited articulation required Some variety of articulation
including some slurs/staccato/
accents
A range of articulation required
No modulations Modulation to closely related key More than one modulation or
modulation to more distant key
Accompaniment supports voice
throughout
Occasional exposed entries/some
interplay with accompaniment
Solo line often exposed/much
interplay between parts
30
Unit 1
Piano
One hand only/hands in octaves
throughout
Two hands with some
independence
Both hands fairly independent
C major/A minor or simple
pentatonic
Key signatures of one or two
sharps/fats
Key signatures of three or more
sharps/fats or modal/chromatic/
atonal
No accidentals Occasional, logical accidentals Frequent accidentals
5-fnger position Some changes of hand position Frequent changes of hand position
patterns
patterns
Slow/moderate tempo Moderate/moderately fast tempo
and/or some gradation of tempo
Fast tempo requiring some
dexterity and/or occasional tempo
changes
contrasts
dynamics
accents
31
Unit 1
Keyboard
One hand only/hands in octaves
throughout
Two hands with some
independence
Both hands fairly independent
No chordal accompaniment Simple fngered chords/single
fngered chords
Wider range of chords (not single
fngered)
pentatonic
sharps/fats
atonal
5-fnger position Some changes of hand position Frequent changes of hand position
patterns
patterns
Slow/moderate tempo Moderate/moderately fast tempo Fast tempo requiring some
changes
contrasts/touch sensitivity
function turned off
dynamics
Limited articulation required or no
registration changes
Some variety of articulation
accents
A range of articulation required/
use of appropriate registration
changes
32
Unit 1
Electric guitar
Pitch range covers three strings Pitch range covers four or more
strings
Pitch range covers all six strings
All in one position Includes infrequent position
changes
Requires frequent position shifts/
covers range up to or above 12th
fret
patterns
patterns
Slow/moderate tempo. No tempo
changes
Moderate/moderately fast tempo Fast tempo requiring some
changes
contrasts
dynamics
Limited articulation required (no
hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides or
bends)
including some hammer-ons,
pull-offs, slides or bends
A range of articulation required,
possibly including some palm
muting or use of tremolo arm
Easy key for the instrument A key which allows less use of
open strings
Harder key for the instrument
Simple picking throughout A range of picking required,
perhaps changing from chords to
single notes
Some more intricate picking
techniques required
Supported by accompaniment
throughout
interplay with accompaniment
33
Unit 1
Acoustic guitar
Easy chord shapes Some barre chords Frequent barre chords/some
awkward chord changes/some
altered or extended chords used
changes
fret
Simple strumming pattern with
little variety
Undemanding but varied
strumming pattern/more complex
but repetitive pattern
Challenging rhythmic
accompaniment pattern
Regular, infrequent chord changes Chord changes not always
regular/more frequent chord
changes
Irregular chord changes/some
fast chord changes
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
required
Some string dampening required/
a range of articulation
Supported by other parts
throughout
interplay with other parts
34
Unit 1
Classical guitar
Monophonic melody Bass notes (which could be open
strings) sounding along with
melody
Independent melody and bass
parts
changes
fret
Simple plucking techniques
required
Some variety required in right-
hand technique
Includes some more intricate
right-hand techniques
patterns
patterns
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
bends)
including some hammer-ons, pull-
offs, slides and possibly some
string dampening
Some string dampening required/
a range of articulation
open strings
No chords used Mostly simple chord shapes Frequent barre chords/some
awkward chord changes
35
Unit 1
Bass guitar
Bass line made up mostly of root
notes
Bass line contains a variety of
chord tones
Bass line more complex
changes
fret
Mostly crotchet movement Some variation in rhythmic
patterns
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
bends)
including some hammer-ons, pull-
offs, and slides
open strings
throughout
Bass line often exposed/much
36
Unit 1
Drumkit
Simple rhythmic patterns Wider range of rhythmic patterns More complex rhythmic patterns
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
Limited articulation required A variety of articulation and
phrasing required
Detailed phrasing and articulation
required
Includes few flls Simple flls more frequent Detailed flls required
Little left foot control required
(hi-hat)
Some left foot control required Good left foot control required
2/4, 4/4 metre Compound time, 3/4 metre Unusual metre/includes changes
of metre
Requires co-ordination between
hands and feet
Requires limited independence
between limbs
Requires independence between
limbs
throughout
Signifcant rhythmic independence
within ensemble
37
Unit 1
Strings
All in frst position Requires changes of position Requires more frequent position
shifts
patterns
patterns
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
accents
Limited bowing technique
required
More co-ordination required
between left hand and bow
A range of bowing techniques
required (possibly including quick
changes between pizz. and arco)
open strings
throughout
38
Unit 1
Woodwind
Pitch range of an octave or less Pitch range of up to a 12th Pitch range of more than a 12th
Mainly conjunct melody/in an
easy register for the instrument
Some leaps, moving out of the
Some awkward intervals and
use of the full register of the
instrument
patterns
patterns
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
accents
Easy key for the instrument Slightly more diffcult key for the
instrument
throughout
39
Unit 1
Brass
Pitch range of an octave or less Pitch range of up to a 12th Pitch range of more than a 12th
Mainly conjunct melody/in an
Some leaps, moving out of the
easy register for the instrument,
includes several low notes
Some awkward intervals and
use of the full register of the
instrument
patterns
patterns
contrasts
dynamics
accents
Frequent rests Some thought required to ensure
breathing is appropriate
Requires paced breathing to
maintain control
Easy key for the instrument Slightly more diffcult key for the
instrument, requiring more use of
valves/slide positions
Harder key for the instrument,
requiring more dexterity in use of
valves/slide
throughout
40
Unit 1
Melodic percussion (for example xylophone/marimba)
No double strokes or damping
required
Single stroke rolls/some damping
required
Includes some chords/frequent
damping required
Mainly conjunct melody Some more awkward intervals Frequent leaps and awkward
intervals
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
phrasing required
required
of metre
pentatonic
sharps/fats
atonal
throughout
Signifcant independence within
ensemble/much interplay
between parts
41
Unit 1
Snare drum
changes
changes
contrasts
dynamics
No dynamic variation Limited range of dynamics Wide range of dynamics
phrasing required
required
No rolls Some straightforward rolls Frequent rolls
No decorations Flams and paradiddles required Flams, paradiddles, drags and
ruffs required
of metre
throughout
Signifcant rhythmic independence
within ensemble
42
Unit 1
Sequencing
Three independent parts Four independent parts Five or more independent parts
Treble or bass clef only Treble and bass clef Treble, bass clef and an
additional clef (including octave
transpositions of bass/treble clef
eg double bass) or tablature
No accidentals Key signatures with one sharp or
fat
Key signatures with three or more
sharps or fats
4/4 metre 2/4, 3/4 or 6/8 metre An unusual metre or requiring
changes of metre
Steady tempo throughout Requires a change of tempo More than one tempo change/
gradation of tempo
No dynamic variation Some general dynamic contrasts General dynamic contrasts
dynamics
Much repetition and/or doubling Some repetition and/or doubling Little/no repetition and/or doubling
Up to 24 bars 25-32 bars 33 bars or more
Simple rhythms and note values
throughout
Wider range of rhythmic patterns More complex rhythmic patterns
43
Unit 1
Levels of Difculty for other performing options
Improvisation
Improvisations should be awarded a Level of Diffculty (LoD) according to
the outcome: the fnal recorded performance should be judged against
the appropriate set of criteria for the instrument in question.
Realisation
Realisations will normally be standard diffculty level unless the student
demonstrates a particularly basic example of the genre (in which case it
will be judged as easier) or a particularly involved, complex performance
(when it will be judged as more diffcult).
Multi-track recording
A. Where the student has performed one or more of the live tracks, the
whole performance should have the same LoD as that which would be
applied to the part assessed for accuracy.
B. Where the student has not performed any of the live tracks, the
recording should always be assessed as standard, unless there is clear
evidence that the demands of the task were well beyond the minimum
specifcation requirements (when it will be judged as more diffcult).
C. If a recording mixes sequencing and recording, the whole performance
will have the same LoD as that which would be applied to the sequencing
element.
Rehearsing and directing
Rehearsing and directing performances should be assessed as standard.

44
Unit 2
Unit 2: Composing Music
Overview
Content overview
Composing music emphasises the creative aspect of music and allows
students to appreciate the process of creating music. Students will be
introduced to the technical and creative skills required by a composer.
Students will be encouraged to explore a range of compositional
starting points and investigate a range of techniques for developing and
manipulating ideas, and turn them into completed pieces of music.
Students can also explore the skills needed to arrange music for different
musical forces.
Assessment overview
In this unit students develop musical ideas in the form of compositions
and/or arrangements.
They may choose to submit either:
two compositions, or
two arrangements, or
one composition and one arrangement.
Each piece must be based on a different Area of Study.
The overall length of the submission, ie both pieces, should total between
two and four minutes.
Group compositions are not acceptable.
Each student submission must comprise:
either a notated score (either handwritten or printed) or a written
commentary containing suffcient performance directions to allow for a
realisation of the piece
a recording (on CD/MD/MP3).
45
Unit 2
Students may compose for either conventional or electronic instruments.
The use of technology may be assessed where appropriate using
the optional criterion: Use of technology. This may include amplifed
instruments and their effects, electronic instruments (including MIDI
workstations, samplers and record decks) and any technological
procedures which are integral to the compositional process or musical
idiom and style, for example sequencing, mixing, sound synthesis and
processing. However, the use of technology to produce and print scores
will not be assessed.
Compositions may be completed at any time during the course.
At an appropriate point during the course, the compositions will be
recorded and assessed by the teacher-examiner.
At the end of the course a sample of compositions must be made
available for moderation, recorded on CD/MD/MP3.
Controlled conditions
While composition research may be carried out by the student in or out
of the centre, the fnal recording and score or commentary must be
completed in the centre under teacher supervision.
The centre supervised time allocation for this component is 10 hours for
each of the two compositions.
Reference should be made to page 66 for further guidance on the
administration of controlled assessment.
A signed authentication statement must accompany all submissions.
46
Unit 2
Skills, knowledge and understanding
In order to compose in a particular style or genre, it is useful to study
examples of the music in some detail. Much of the listening and
appraising work for Unit 3 will involve analysis of the set works and these
could be used as models for composing in those particular forms and
styles. However, under this specifcation, it is permissible to compose
in any style or form within the bounds of the dates or subject of each
Area of Study. For example, if a student wishes to compose a pastiche
Baroque binary form dance, then they should study examples from the
repertoire in this medium.
Each piece will be based on a different Area of Study but does not
necessarily need to adopt the same structure and form as one of the
prescribed set works studied in Unit 3: Music - Listening and Appraising.
For example, in Area of Study 1, the piece could take on any structure
found in music during the set period of 1600-1899, including sonata
form and binary form. With Area of Study 2: music in the 20th century,
Area of Study 3: popular music in context and Area of Study 4: world
music, all genres and styles which fall under these broad headings will be
acceptable.
Arrangements
Arrangement(s) may be submitted in lieu of composition(s). An
arrangement is the creation of a new version of a piece of music,
usually scored for different resources from the original. It may involve
changes to several of the musical elements, but to score high marks an
arrangement should be signifcantly different from the original, in effect
creating a new work from the original source material. It should not be
a transcription of the original for different forces. The original source
material must be included in each students submission of work to enable
accurate evaluation of the extent of effective change.
47
Unit 2
Score/written commentary
The score may be handwritten or computer generated. Students must
submit their work in a format appropriate to the style. This may be
a fully notated score, a lead sheet or chord chart, or annotated track
diagrams.
Students not enclosing a score must submit a written commentary
instead. This piece of writing should give a detailed description of
the composition (or arrangement) and the processes used in its
development. It should refer to the musical content throughout.
Commentaries must contain similar information to that found in a score;
details of performance indications and the composers intentions. A
good commentary containing suffcient information for an acceptable
realisation of the composers intentions is acceptable for any style
of music. Whatever format or combination of formats is chosen, the
presentation must be suffciently clear and detailed for the moderator to
be able to assess the composition or arrangement.
Students must submit a score or written commentary to fulfl the
requirements of the specifcation. Students work will not be moderated if
they do not meet this requirement
The recording
Compositions and arrangements may be realised through conventional
instruments or music technology. The quality of recorded performances
will not be assessed.
48
Unit 2
Application of the assessment criteria grids: Composing
Each composition is marked separately out of 30.
15 marks (3 x 5) are available for the compulsory core criteria.
15 marks (3 x 5) are available for criteria, which will be chosen by the
teacher-examiner in relation to the nature of the composition.
Compulsory core criteria (3 x 5 =15 marks)
These criteria focus on the creative, imaginative and developmental
aspects of composition.
Criterion A Use and development of ideas
Criterion B Exploitation of the medium
Criterion C Structure and form
Optional criteria (3 x 5 =15 marks)
Criterion D Melody
Criterion E Harmony/accompaniment
Criterion F Texture
Criterion G Tempo/rhythm
Criterion H Dynamic contrasts
Criterion I Use of technology
Any three optional criteria may be chosen as appropriate to the
composition.
49
Unit 2
Composing compulsory core criteria
Criterion A: Use and development of ideas
Assessment criteria Level of response Mark
AO2 Excellent Makes imaginative use of ideas and conventions in accordance
with the chosen Area of Study.
5
Good Makes good use of standard conventions in accordance with the
chosen Area of Study and ideas are developed
4
Competent Makes some use of standard conventions in accordance with the
chosen Area of Study.
3
Basic Makes an adequate attempt to develop the musical ideas in
accordance with the chosen Area of Study.
2
Limited Makes only a minimum attempt at realising and developing ideas
in accordance with the chosen Area of Study.
1
Unachieved No evidence of any development of ideas in accordance with the
0
Criterion B: Exploitation of the medium
AO2 Excellent Demonstrates excellent and effective selection and handling of
resources and medium, exploiting their potential to the full.
5
Good There is a good use of the medium and resources. 4
Competent There is a satisfactory realisation of the resources and medium. 3
Basic The resources are used in a functional manner although there
may be an adequate exploitation of the potential of the medium.
2
Limited There is a limited attempt to use the resources and medium. 1
Unachieved No real evidence of any understanding of the medium and
resources.
0
50
Unit 2
Criterion C: Structure and form
The length of the composition should be consistent with the style to allow
for appropriate development of the thematic material within the chosen
genre.
AO2 Excellent The overall structure and form is interesting and shows
imaginative use of structural devices.
5
Good The overall structure has a sense of proportion and development
with a good use of structural devices.
4
Competent The structure is simple and clear, making use of appropriate
structural devices revealing a recognisable form.
3
Basic There is an attempt to use and control structural devices most
of the time. A sense of proportion and development may be
compromised by brevity.
2
Limited There is minimal use of structural devices resulting in a confused
structure.
1
Unachieved No sense of any form or structure evident. 0
Composing optional criteria
Three to be selected. Criteria chosen should be appropriate to the composition concerned.
Criterion D: Melody
AO2 Excellent The melody lines display style and character. 5
Good Melody lines are well constructed. 4
Competent The melody lines have some sense of shape. 3
Basic The melody lines are functional and lack real shape. 2
Limited Melody lines are limited 1
Unachieved Melody parts are random and meandering or incoherent. 0
51
Unit 2
Criterion E: Harmony/accompaniment
AO2 Excellent An extended range of chords/an effective accompaniment. 5
Good Good harmonic repertoire/a good accompaniment style. 4
Competent Simple, but appropriate harmony/accompaniment style. 3
Basic Basic use of chords functional, with some possible
misjudgements.
2
Limited Limited harmonic awareness. 1
Unachieved No understanding of harmony and/or accompaniment. 0
Criterion F: Texture
AO2 Excellent Sensitive awareness of textural matters, exploiting texture to
good effect.
5
Good Shows a clear awareness of texture. 4
Competent The texture is generally appropriate. 3
Basic Displays an adequate awareness of texture, with some possible
misjudgements.
2
Limited Displays only a limited awareness of texture. 1
Unachieved No evidence of textural awareness. 0
Criterion G: Tempo/rhythm
AO2 Excellent Exciting, well chosen and showing some originality. 5
Good A good choice of tempo and the use of interesting rhythms. 4
Competent Appropriate choice of tempo/rhythm. 3
Basic Functional rhythms with little variety. 2
Limited A limited awareness of rhythm/tempo. 1
Unachieved Rhythms are random/inappropriate tempo. 0
52
Unit 2
Criterion H: Dynamic contrasts
AO2 Excellent Careful, sensitive and appropriate, the dynamics signifcantly
enhance the composition.
5
Good Dynamics are used to good effect throughout the composition. 4
Competent Dynamics are used to provide some contrasts in the music. 3
Basic Dynamics are used but are only sometimes appropriate. 2
Limited Limited use of dynamics, though mainly inappropriate. 1
Unachieved No dynamics given, or if given, they are inappropriate. 0
Criterion I: Use of technology
AO2 Excellent Confdent and imaginative handling of technological resources
and processes.
5
Good Good use of technology evident throughout the composition. 4
Competent Competent use of technology with few misjudgements. 3
Basic Technology used in a functional manner with evidence of
misjudgements.
2
Limited Limited use of technology with signifcant misjudgements
throughout.
1
Unachieved Very poor and ineffective use of technology which is
detrimental to the piece as a whole.
0
53
Unit 2
Application of the assessment criteria grids: Arranging
Each arrangement is marked separately out of 30.
15 marks (3 x 5) are available for the compulsory core criteria.
15 marks (3 x 5) are available for criteria chosen by the teacher-
examiner in relation to the nature of the arrangement.
Compulsory core criteria (3 x 5 = 15 marks)
These criteria focus on the creative and imaginative aspects of
arrangement.
Criterion A Use and development of ideas
Criterion B Exploitation of the medium
Criterion C Choice of material/extent of change/impact
Optional criteria (3 x 5 = 15 marks)
Criterion D Melodic interest/part writing
Criterion E Harmony/accompaniment
Criterion F Texture
Criterion G Tempo/rhythm
Criterion H Dynamic contrasts
Criterion I Use of technology
Criterion J Technical problems
Any three optional criteria may be chosen as appropriate to the
arrangement.
54
Unit 2
Arranging compulsory core criteria
Criterion A: Use and development of ideas
AO2 Excellent Makes imaginative use of ideas and conventions in accordance
with the chosen Area of Study.
5
Good Makes good use of standard conventions in accordance with the
chosen Area of Study and ideas are developed.
4
Competent Makes some use of standard conventions in accordance with the
3
Basic Makes an adequate attempt to develop the musical ideas in
accordance with the chosen Area of Study.
2
Limited Makes only a minimum attempt at realising and developing ideas
in accordance with the chosen Area of Study.
1
Unachieved No evidence of any development of ideas in accordance with the
0
Criterion B: Exploitation of the medium
AO2 Excellent Demonstrates excellent and effective selection and handling of
resources and medium, exploiting their potential to the full.
5
Good There is a good use of the medium and resources. 4
Competent A satisfactory realisation of the resources and medium. 3
Basic The resources are used in a functional manner. There is little
exploitation of the potential of the medium.
2
Limited There is a limited attempt to use the resources and medium. 1
Unachieved No real evidence of any understanding of the medium and
resources.
0
55
Unit 2
Criterion C: Choice of material/extent of change/impact
AO2 Excellent Original has excellent potential for arrangement.
The arrangement works exceptionally well in a new medium with
a very imaginative approach to the material.
The end product is effectively a new piece.
5
Good Good choice of original with considerable potential for
arrangement.
The arrangement works well and the approach displays a good
degree of imagination and originality.
A signifcant number of additions/subtractions from the original.
4
Competent Original can be arranged with some additions/subtractions
clearly made.
The arrangement is generally successful and signifcantly
different from the original.
3
Basic Material has a modest potential for arrangement and the original
has only been slightly changed.
The arrangement makes adequate impact on the listener most of
the time.
2
Limited Poor choice of material with only one or two changes apparent.
There is little evidence of transcription.
The arrangement makes only a limited impact on the listener.
1
Unachieved No effort to arrange the original material.
No discernible impact made on the listener.
0
56
Unit 2
Arranging optional criteria
Three to be selected. Criteria should be chosen as appropriate to the arrangement.
Criterion D: Melodic interest/part writing
AO2 Excellent The new melodic parts imaginatively enhance all of the
arrangement.
5
Good A good number of new melodic parts are used in the
arrangement.
4
Competent There is some use of counter melody/melodic parts/passing
notes etc beyond that of the original melody.
3
Basic Only a few additions to the original melody lines are apparent. 2
Limited There are hardly any new parts apparent. 1
Unachieved No evidence of any departure from the exact notes used in the
original melody.
0
Criterion E: Harmony/accompaniment
AO2 Excellent The piece is completely and effectively re- harmonized/ an
effective accompaniment is added.
5
Good A signifcant amount of new harmonisation is apparent/ a good
accompaniment style.
4
Competent Some new chords have been introduced/ simple, but appropriate
accompaniment style.
3
Basic There is basic new harmonisation apparent/some of the new
chord choices are unsuccessful.
2
Limited The original harmony is used with just the odd change of chord/
any harmonic changes are unsuccessful.
1
Unachieved Only the original harmony used. 0
Criterion F: Texture
AO2 Excellent Sensitive awareness of textural matters, exploiting texture to
good effect.
5
Good Shows a clear awareness of texture. 4
Competent The texture is generally appropriate. 3
Basic Displays an adequate awareness of texture, with some possible
misjudgements.
2
Limited Displays only a limited awareness of texture. 1
Unachieved No evidence of textural awareness. 0
57
Unit 2
Criterion G: Tempo/rhythm
AO2 Excellent There is a display of some innovative use of tempo/rhythmic
elements in producing a new version of the original.
5
Good There is a sensitive use of tempo/rhythmic patterns to produce a
new version.
4
Competent The new version has several examples of tempo/rhythmic
change although these are sometimes mechanical.
3
Basic The tempo and rhythm is used in a functional manner. 2
Limited A limited awareness of tempo/rhythmic change. 1
Unachieved Lack of any discernible changes in either tempo and/or rhythm. 0
Criterion H: Dynamic contrasts
AO2 Excellent There is evidence of an original and effective reworking of
dynamic contrasts.
5
Good There is a good reworking of dynamic contrasts. 4
Competent There is some sensible reworking of dynamic contrasts. 3
Basic There are only a few instances of reworked dynamics in the
arrangement.
2
Limited A limited awareness of dynamic contrasts. 1
Unachieved Lack of any dynamic contrasts. 0
Criterion I: Use of technology
AO2 Excellent Confdent and imaginative handling of technological resources
and processes.
5
Good Good use of technology evident throughout the arrangement. 4
Competent Competent use of technology with few misjudgements. 3
Basic Technology used in a functional manner with evidence of
misjudgements.
2
Limited Limited use of technology with signifcant misjudgements
throughout.
1
Unachieved Very poor and ineffective use of technology, which is detrimental
to the piece as a whole.
0
58
Unit 2
Criterion J: Technical problems
AO2 Excellent There is an excellent handling of technical problems and a high
level of awareness of potential and the limitations of the new
medium.
5
Good Technical problems are handled well and show a good awareness
of the potential of the new medium to solve most problems.
4
Competent Competent ability to deal with technical problems and an
awareness of the diffculties created by the choice of medium.
3
Basic Scant awareness of problems presented by the new medium. 2
Limited There is limited understanding of the technical problems of the
new medium.
1
Unachieved There is a lack of understanding of all aspects of technical
problems associated with the new medium.
0
59
Unit 3
Unit 3: Music Listening and Appraising
Overview
Content overview
In this unit students develop their listening and appraising skills through
the study of music across a variety of styles and genres. The content for
the unit is grouped into four Areas of Study each of which contains three
set works.
Area of Study 1 western classical music 1600-1899
G F Handel: Chorus: And The Glory of The Lord from Messiah, HWV 56
W A Mozart: 1st Movement from Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550
F Chopin: Prelude No 15 in D fat major, Op. 28
Area of Study 2 music in the 20th century
A Schoenberg: Peripetie from Five Orchestral Pieces, Op. 16
L Bernstein: Somethings Coming from West Side Story
S Reich: 3rd Movement (fast) from Electric Counterpoint
Area of Study 3 popular music in context
M Davis: All Blues from the album Kind of Blue
J Buckley: Grace from the album Grace
Moby: Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad? From the album Play
Area of Study 4 world music
Capercaillie: Chuir MAthair Mise Dhan Taigh Charraideach (Skye
Waulking Song) from the album Ndurra
Rag Desh
Suggested listening:
{ A Shankar: Rag Desh from the album Live at Carnegie Hall
{ S D Dhandhada and H Dhandhada: Rag Desh from the album
Mewar Re Mira
{ B Wertheimer and S Gorn: Rag Desh Parts 1-3 from the album
Priyagitah: The Nightingale
Koko:Yiri
60
Unit 3
Assessment overview
This unit will be assessed through a 1-hour and 30-minute examination
set and marked by Edexcel.
The examination is divided into two sections.
Section A
Eight questions requiring students to respond to extracts of music on
CD, which are taken from the set works.
The exact number of times the extracts will be heard is announced on
the CD and printed on the examination paper.
Students will be given one minutes reading time at the start of each
question and three minutes to complete their answers at the end of
each question.
A range of question types including multiple choice, melody/rhythm
completion, grid completion, one-word response, short response and
free response questions, will be used as appropriate to the extracts.
The 68-mark total for this section will be divided as appropriate
between the eight questions the questions will not necessarily be of
equal weighting.
This section will last approximately 65 minutes.
Section B
One extended response question (from a choice of two) on any one of
the set works, or comparing musical features across set works.
This section will be worth 12 marks.
Students will have 25 minutes to complete their response.
Scores of set works must not be brought into the examination.
Quality of Written Communication
Quality of Written Communication (QWC) will be assessed in Section B.
Students should answer in prose. The 12 marks available for the
question will include reference to QWC, which is embedded in the levels
of response mark scheme.
61
Unit 3
Sections A and B
In their responses to the questions in both sections, students will need
to demonstrate an understanding of the following in relation to the set
works within the Areas of Study:
the musical elements (pitch, duration, dynamics, tempo, timbre,
texture, structure)
identifying how resources are used in different combinations
(identifying instruments and groups of instruments)
identifying key musical features
identifying musical and melodic devices (ornamentation, ostinati, riffs,
use of imitation, pedal point and sequence)
identifying rhythmic devices (syncopation, swung rhythms, dotted
rhythms and triplets)
identifying and discriminating between major, minor, modal,
pentatonic, chromatic and atonal tonalities
relating music to the context in which it was created
identifying conventions used in different times and places
using appropriate musical vocabulary
expressing and justifying opinions and preferences.
Section A
Students should study the set works for each Area of Study, aurally
identifying the key musical features in each work. They should
understand the context within which the set works were composed
and their place within the Area of Study as a whole. In this section of
the examination, students will also be expected to express and justify
opinions on the set work extracts and complete short musical dictation
and staff notation questions.
Student should be encouraged to listen to music in a discriminating way,
developing their skills of aural perception.
62
Unit 3
Section B
In Section B, students write in more detail about the set works that they
have studied and this extended response will be assessed for QWC as
well as the quality of the musical information conveyed. Questions may
concentrate on one or more set works and could ask for a comparison
between two works (within the same Area of Study or from two different
Areas of Study). Students should be prepared to demonstrate that they
are able to write about:
how the musical elements such as pitch, duration, dynamics, tempo,
timbre, texture and structure have been used by the composer
how the instruments and groups of instruments are used
how any other key musical features have been used in the set work(s).
They could also be asked to:
place the music in its musical, social and historical context
express and justify opinions on the set work(s) in question.
Some knowledge of related works within the Area of Study will be given
credit but is not required. However students will need to know how the
work fts within the context of other pieces written in similar genres
around the same time.
Students should be encouraged to express their ideas about the set
works using correct musical vocabulary, as this is a key element of the
grade descriptions on page 72 and the mark scheme for Section B.
B Assessment
Assessment summary
Units 1 and 2 are internally assessed under controlled conditions and
Unit 3 is externally assessed through a 1-hour and 30-minute paper.
Summary of table of assessment
Unit 1: Performing Music Unit code: 5MU01
Internally assessed under controlled conditions.
Students will perform one solo performance 10 hours maximum for the recording of the
performance.
Student will perform one ensemble performance 10 hours maximum for the recording of the
performance.
Unit 2: Composing Music Unit code: 5MU02
Internally assessed under controlled conditions.
Students develop musical ideas in the form of compositions and/or arrangements. They can
choose to submit either two compositions, or two arrangements, or one composition and one
arrangement.
10 hours maximum for completion of the recording and the score or commentary for each
composition or arrangement
Unit 3: Music Listening and Appraising Unit code: 5MU03
A 1-hour and 30-minute written paper.
All questions relate to the set works in the Areas of Study.
The paper will be in two sections:
{ Section A: eight compulsory questions in response to extracts from the set works that will be
played on a CD during the examination (68 marks)
{ Section B: one question chosen from two optional questions, requiring extended writing (12
marks).
A total of 80 marks for the paper.
B Assessment
Assessment Objectives and weightings
% in GCSE
AO1: Performing skills: performing/realising with technical control, expression and
interpretation.
30%
AO2: Composing skills: creating and developing musical ideas with technical control and
coherence.
30%
AO3: Listening and appraising skills: analysing and evaluating music using musical
terminology.
40%
TOTAL 100%
Relationship of Assessment Objectives to units
Unit number Assessment Objective
AO1 AO2 AO3 Total for AO1,
AO2 and AO3
Unit 1 30% 0% 0% 30%
Unit 2 0% 30% 0% 30%
Unit 3 0% 0% 40% 40%
Total for GCSE 30% 30% 40% 100%
Entering your students for assessment
Student entry
From summer 2014 onwards students will be required to sit all of their
examinations at the end of the course. Students may complete the
controlled assessment task(s) at any appropriate point during the course
and controlled assessment work must be submitted for moderation at the
end of the course.
Details of how to enter students for this qualifcation can be found in
Edexcels UK Information Manual, a copy is sent to all examinations
offcers. The information can also be found on Edexcels website:
www.edexcel.com
Assessment B
Forbidden combinations and classication code
Centres should be aware that students who enter for more than one
GCSE qualifcation with the same classifcation code will have only one
grade (the highest) counted for the purpose of the school and college
performance tables.
Students should be advised that, if they take two specifcations with the
same classifcation code, schools and colleges are very likely to take
the view that they have achieved only one GCSE. The same view may
be taken if students take two GCSE specifcations that have different
classifcation codes but have signifcant overlap of content. Students who
have any doubts about their subject combinations should check with
the institution to which they wish to progress before embarking on their
programmes.
Access arrangements and special requirements
Edexcels policy on access arrangements and special considerations
for GCE, GCSE and Entry Level is designed to ensure equal access
to qualifcations for all students (in compliance with the Equality Act
2010) without compromising the assessment of skills, knowledge,
understanding or competence.
Please see the Edexcel website (www.edexcel.com) for:
the Joint Council for Qualifcations (JCQ) policy Access Arrangements,
Reasonable Adjustments and Special Consideration
the forms to submit for requests for access arrangements and special
considerations
dates for submission of the forms.
Requests for access arrangements and special considerations must be
addressed to:
Special Requirements
Edexcel
One90 High Holborn
London WC1V 7BH
Equality Act 2010
Please see the Edexcel website (www.edexcel.com) for information
relating to the Equality Act 2010.
B Assessment
Controlled assessment
In controlled assessments, control levels are set for three linked
processes: task setting, task taking and task marking. The control levels
(high, medium or limited dependent on the subject) are set for each
process so that the overall level of control secures validity and reliability,
provides good manageability for all involved and allows teachers to
authenticate the student work confdently.
The summary of the controlled conditions for this specifcation are shown
below.
Summary of conditions for controlled assessment
Unit 1
Students must be supervised regularly in the preparation of their
performances. Students have a maximum of 10 hours to complete each
recording to be submitted for Unit 1.
Where students complete the music technology options for Unit 1,
teachers should follow the guidance given for Unit 2 regarding controlled
conditions and supervision of students.
Unit 2
The time allocation for this component is 10 hours for each of the two
compositions. The compositional process and supervision are divided as
follows.
Research
This includes any work done before the writing down of the fnal version
of the composition as a score or commentary. This may involve listening
to other music, mulling over a brief, experimenting with suitable
melodies or rhythmic ideas on guitar or piano, working out rough drafts,
and so on.
Research can be carried out outside the centre. There is no time limit
to it. The results can be recorded in writing or electronically, and can be
taken in and out of the centre and referred to during controlled write up
time. However, teachers must inspect them, and be satisfed that they
are the students own work benchmarking them against previous work
and expectations.
Assessment B
Write up and recording
This is when the fnal recording and score or commentary of the piece
is produced. Scores may be either in handwritten form or via a score-
writing package. Writing and recording time is limited. Students have
a maximum of 10 hours writing and recording time. You must keep a
written record to ensure that each students writing and recording time
has not been exceeded.
A signed authentication statement must accompany all submissions for
Units 1 and 2.
Internal standardisation
Teachers must show clearly how the marks have been awarded in
relation to the assessment criteria. If more than one teacher in a
centre is marking students work, there must be a process of internal
standardisation to ensure that there is consistent application of the
assessment criteria.
Authentication
All students must sign an authentication statement. Statements relating
to work not sampled should be held securely in your centre. Those which
relate to sampled students must be attached to the work and sent to
the moderator. In accordance with a revision to the current Code of
Practice, any student unable to provide an authentication statement
will receive zero credit for the component. Where credit has been
awarded by a centre-assessor to sampled work without an accompanying
authentication statement, the moderator will inform Edexcel and the
mark adjusted to zero.
Further information
For more information on annotation, authentication, mark submission
and moderation procedures, please refer to the Edexcel GCSE in Music:
Instructions and administrative documentation for internally assessed
units document, which is available on the Edexcel website.
For up-to-date advice on teacher involvement, please refer to the Joint
Council for Qualifcations (JCQ) Instructions for conducting coursework/
portfolio document on the JCQ website: www.jcq.org.uk
For up-to-date advice on malpractice and plagiarism, please refer to the
JCQ Suspected Malpractice in Examinations: Policies and Procedures and
Instructions for conducting coursework/portfolio documents on the JCQ
website.
B Assessment
Assessing your students
The assessment opportunity for Units 1, 2 and 3 of this qualifcation will
take place in the June series for the lifetime of the specifcation.
Unit June 2014 June 2015 June 2016
Unit 1: Performing Music

Unit 2: Composing Music

Unit 3: Music Listening and
Appraising

Awarding and reporting
The grading, awarding and certifcation of this qualifcation will comply
with the requirements of the current GCSE/GCE Code of Practice, which
is published by the Offce of Qualifcations and Examinations Regulation
(Ofqual). The GCSE qualifcation will be graded and certifcated on an
eight-grade scale from A* to G. Individual unit results will be reported.
Students whose level of achievement is below the minimum judged by
Edexcel to be of suffcient standard to be recorded on a certifcate will
receive an unclassifed U result.
Unit results
The minimum uniform marks required for each grade for each unit:
Unit 1
Unit grade *A A B C D E F G
Maximum uniform
mark = 90
81 72 63 54 45 36 27 18
Students who do not achieve the standard required for a grade G will
receive a uniform mark in the range 017.
Assessment B
Unit 2
Maximum uniform
mark = 90
81 72 63 54 45 36 27 18
Unit 3
Maximum uniform
mark = 120
108 96 84 72 60 48 36 24
Qualication results
The minimum uniform marks required for each grade:
GCSE in Music cash-in code: 2MU01
Qualifcation grade *A A B C D E F G
Maximum uniform
mark = 300
270 240 210 180 150 120 90 60
B Assessment
Re-taking of qualications
Students wishing to re-take a GCSE are required to re-take all the units
in the qualifcation. Students will be permitted to carry forward the
results from the controlled assessment unit(s) if they wish and only
re-take the externally-assessed units.
Language of assessment
Assessment of this specifcation will be available in English only.
Assessment materials will be published in English only and all work
submitted for examination and moderation must be produced in English.
Quality of Written Communication
Students will be assessed on their ability to:
write legibly, with accurate use of spelling, grammar and punctuation
in order to make the meaning clear
select and use a form and style of writing appropriate to purpose and
to complex subject matter
organise relevant information clearly and coherently, using specialist
vocabulary when appropriate.
Assessment B
Stretch and challenge
Students can be stretched and challenged in all units through the use of
different assessment strategies, for example:
using a variety of stems in questions for example analyse, evaluate,
discuss, compare
ensuring connectivity between sections of questions
a requirement for extended writing
use of a wider range of question types to address different skills for
example open-ended questions.
Malpractice and plagiarism
For up-to-date advice on malpractice and plagiarism, please refer to the
JCQ Suspected Malpractice in Examinations: Policies and Procedures
document on the JCQ website www.jcq.org.uk
Student recruitment
Edexcels access policy concerning recruitment to our qualifcations is
that:
they must be available to anyone who is capable of reaching the
required standard
they must be free from barriers that restrict access and progression
equal opportunities exist for all students.
Progression
Progression from the Edexcel GCSE in Music can lead to study in:
GCE in Music
GCE in Music Technology
BTEC Level 3 Nationals
14-19 Diploma in Creative Media (Level 3)
B Assessment
Grade descriptions
A
Candidates explore the expressive potential of musical resources and
conventions used in selected genres, and traditions. They sing and/or play
music with a sense of style, command of the resources used and making
appropriate gradations of tempo, dynamics and balance.
They compose music which shows a coherent and imaginative
development of musical ideas and consistency of style and fulfls a brief.
They make critical judgements about their own and others music using an
accurate and extensive musical vocabulary.
C
Candidates sing and/or play music with control, making expressive use of
phrase and dynamics appropriate to the style and mood of the music.
They compose music which shows ability to develop musical ideas, use
conventions, explore the potential of musical structures and resources and
fulfls a brief.
They make critical judgements about their own and others music using a
musical vocabulary.
F
Candidates sing and/or play music with some fuency and control of the
resources used.
They compose music which shows some ability to organise musical ideas
and use appropriate resources in response to a brief.
They describe musical features using a simple musical vocabulary, make
improvements to their own work and offer some justifcation of opinions
expressed.
C Resources, support and training
Edexcel resources
The resources from Edexcel provide you and your students with
comprehensive support for our GCSE in Music qualifcation. These
materials have been developed by subject experts to ensure that you
and your department have appropriate resources to deliver the
specifcation.
Edexcel publications
You can order further copies of the specifcation, sample assessment
materials (SAMs), and teachers guide documents from:
Edexcel Publications
Adamsway
Mansfeld
Nottinghamshire NG18 4FN
Telephone: 01623 467467
Fax: 01623 450481
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.edexcel.com
Endorsed resources
Edexcel also endorses some additional materials written to support this
qualifcation. Any resources bearing the Edexcel logo have been through
a quality assurance process to ensure complete and accurate support for
the specifcation. For up-to-date information about endorsed resources,
please visit www.edexcel.com/endorsed.
Please note that while resources are checked at the time of publication,
materials may be withdrawn from circulation and website locations may
change.
C Resources, support and training
Edexcel support services
Edexcel has a wide range of support services to help you implement this
qualifcation successfully.
ResultsPlus ResultsPlus is an application launched by Edexcel to help
subject teachers, senior management teams, and students by providing
detailed analysis of examination performance. Reports that compare
performance between subjects, classes, your centre and similar centres
can be generated in one-click. Skills maps that show performance
according to the specifcation topic being tested are available for some
subjects. For further information about which subjects will be analysed
through ResultsPlus, and for information on how to access and use the
service, please visit www.edexcel.com/resultsplus
Ask the Expert To make it easier for you to raise a query with us
online, we have merged our Ask Edexcel and Ask the Expert services.
There is now one easy-to-use web query form that will allow you to ask
any question about the delivery or teaching of Edexcel qualifcations.
Youll get a personal response, from one of our administrative or teaching
experts, sent to the email address you provide.
Were always looking to improve the quantity and quality of information
in our FAQ database, so youll be able to fnd answers to many questions
you might have by searching before you submit the question to us. You
can access this service at www.edexcel.com/ask.
Support for Students
Learning fourishes when students take an active interest in their
education; when they have all the information they need to make the
right decisions about their futures. With the help of feedback from
students and their teachers, weve developed a website for students that
will help them:
Understand subject specifcations
Access past papers and mark schemes
Find out how to get exams remarked
Learn about other students experiences at university, on their travels
and entering the workplace
Were committed to regularly updating and improving our online services
for students. The most valuable service we can provide is helping schools
and colleges unlock the potential of their learners.
www.edexcel.com/students
Resources, support and training C
Training
A programme of professional development and training courses, covering
various aspects of the specifcation and examination, will be arranged by
Edexcel each year on a regional basis. Full details can be obtained from:
Training from Edexcel
Edexcel
One90 High Holborn
London WC1V 7BH
Telephone: 0844 576 0027
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.edexcel.com/training
D Appendices
Appendix 1 Key skills 77
Appendix 2 Wider curriculum 78
Appendix 3 Codes 80
77
Appendix 1
Appendices D
Appendix 1 Key skills
Signposting
Key skills (Level 2) Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3
Communication
C2.1a

C2.1b

C2.2 X X
C2.3 X X X
Information and communication technology
ICT2.1

ICT2.2

ICT2.3

Improving own learning and performance
LP2.1

X
LP2.2

X
LP2.3

X
Working with others
WO2.1

X X
WO2.2

X X
WO2.3

X X
Development suggestions
Please refer to the Edexcel website for key skills development
suggestions.
78
Appendix 2
D Appendices
Appendix 2 Wider curriculum
Signposting
Issue Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3
Spiritual

Moral

X
Ethical

X
Social

Cultural

Citizenship

X
European initiatives

Health and safety

X
79
Appendix 2
Appendices D
Development suggestions
Issue Unit Opportunities for development or internal assessment
Spiritual Units 1, 2 and 3 Music is often referred to as the route to the soul and students
need to be aware of the spiritual effect it can have on both
themselves and on others. Music is a central component of
worship in many faiths, and students will have the opportunity
to perform, compose and listen to some of the music used in
this way.
Moral Units 1 and 2 Moral issues may be discussed in relation to musical theatre
pieces studied and the lyrics of popular music.
Ethical Units 1 and 2 The use (or misuse) of music as a political tool may be
considered.
Social Units 1, 2 and 3 Students perform with others aiding inter-personal
understanding, as well as developing an awareness of audience,
venue and occasion. Composition and performance can play a
benefcial part in the lives of individuals and schools, and in the
general life of the community. The study of set works requires
students to consider the social context within which the music
was composed.
Cultural Units 1, 2 and 3 Exploring music in a variety of styles will encourage recognition
and understanding of the values of other individuals and
communities. As students perform, compose and listen to
music in a variety of styles it is hoped that they will develop
an appreciation of the richness of our cultural heritage and
consider issues of cultural diversity through the study of music
from different cultures.
Citizenship Units 1 and 2 Students develop skills of participation and responsible action
through performing and composing with others. Students
will learn how to consider the experiences of others, take
part responsibly in activities and refecting on the process of
participation.
European
initiatives
Units 1, 2 and 3 European musicians created much of the music studied in
the course. The study of music from the European classical
tradition in Area of Study 1 will inform students about the rich
heritage of European music, an understanding that they can
extend through composing and performing activities.
Health and safety Units 1 and 2 Students who use music technology to complete these units will
need to consider health and safety when completing their set
tasks.
80
Appendix 3
D Appendices
Appendix 3 Codes
Type of code Use of code Code number
National
classifcation codes
Every qualifcation is assigned to a national
classifcation code indicating the subject area to which
it belongs. Centres should be aware that students who
enter for more than one GCSE qualifcation with the
same classifcation code will have only one grade (the
highest) counted for the purpose of the school and
college performance tables.
7010
National
Qualifcations
Framework (NQF)
codes
Each qualifcation title is allocated a National
Qualifcations Framework (NQF) code.
The National Qualifcations Framework (NQF) code is
known as a Qualifcation Number (QN). This is the code
that features in the DfE Section 96 and on the LARA
as being eligible for 1618 and 191 funding, and is to
be used for all qualifcation funding purposes. The QN
is the number that will appear on the students fnal
certifcation documentation.
The QN for the
qualifcation in this
publication is:
GCSE 500/4659/7
Unit codes Each unit is assigned a unit code. This unit code is
used as an entry code to indicate that a student wishes
to take the assessment for that unit. Centres will need
to use the entry codes only when entering students for
their examination.
Unit 1 5MU01
Unit 2 5MU02
Unit 3 5MU03
Cash-in codes The cash-in code is used as an entry code to aggregate
the students unit scores to obtain the overall grade
for the qualifcation. Centres will need to use the entry
codes only when claiming students qualifcations.
GCSE 2MU01
Entry codes The entry codes are used to:
enter a student for the assessment of a unit
aggregate the students unit scores to obtain the
overall grade for the qualifcation.
Please refer to the
Edexcel UK Information
Manual, available on the
Edexcel website.
2246rl230309S:\LT\PD\GCSE 2009\GCSE MUSIC SPEC ISSUE 2.INDD.180/0
Publication code UG030073
For further copies of this publication, please send an email to
the following addresses:
UK customers: [email protected]
International customers: [email protected]
Also, you can download copies at: www.edexcel.com

For more information on Edexcel and BTEC qualications
please visit our website: www.edexcel.com
Edexcel Limited. Registered in England and Wales No. 4496750
Registered Ofce: Edinburgh Gate, Harlow, Essex CM20 2JE
VAT Reg No GB 278 537121

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What are the main features of the Edexcel GCSE in Music specification?

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Specifcation

Edexcel GCSE in Music (2MU01)

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