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Music Theory 1: Decoding Rhythm, Pitch, Major Scales, and Musical Symbols

Introductory music theory concepts, following the syllabus for ABRSM Grade 1.
Dr Steph Acaster
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(253)
Star Educator
Class

What's included

11 pre-recorded lessons
6 weeks
of teacher support
1 year access
to the content
Homework
Learners can select which practice materials to complete and submit for feedback/correction.
Assessment
Informal assessments are offered for each topic. The final week includes tasks incorporating multiple topics. An optional practice test can be submitted for a grade at the end of the class.
Grading
An optional practice test can be submitted for a grade at the end of the class.

Class Experience

Beginner Level
This class is suitable as an introduction to learners who are beginning to read traditional sheet music, covering rhythm, pitch, scales, and other commonly-used symbols. The topics follow the ABRSM Syllabus for Grade 1 Music Theory - the course may be used by learners planning to take this examination, though it is equally suitable for learners who would like to develop their skills and knowledge without taking the test.

Weeks 1-5 will cover knowledge and skills using video lessons, with opportunities for practice and feedback. In week 6, the assignments will incorporate elements from across all sub-topics.

Each video will contain elements where learners can write along with the examples on-screen using provided worksheets, and practice using pause then play-to-check-answers prompts. Additional practice materials will follow each video, with the opportunity to submit some tasks for teacher feedback.

Syllabus

11 Lessons
over 6 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Note Values
 Names of note/rest symbols and their rhythmic values. 
Lesson 2:
Ties and Dots
 Extending the length of a note using ties or dots. 
Lesson 3:
Time Signatures
 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4 time, bar lines, and note grouping. 
Lesson 4:
Treble Clef
 Recognising notes in the treble/G-clef. 

Other Details

External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2020
5.0
253reviews
Star Educator
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Doctoral Degree in Psychology from Sheffield Hallam University
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from University of Birmingham, UK
ABOUT ME
I love to learn, and I am a big advocate of following your interests - even if they might not seem compatible at first glance!
My teaching philosophy is to encourage intellectual curiosity, motivation, and aspiration in students, whatever their current stage of education.

I teach a range of subject areas, including Psychology, Biology, Music Theory, and Maths. I'm developing new ideas all the time, so please feel welcome to get in touch if there's something you'd like to see! I can also create custom sessions - so if there's something you're looking for and can't find, please just ask!


GENERAL TEACHING APPROACH
My teaching style differs depending on different topics/activities, but my general approach is to welcome students into an environment where they can engage at a level where they feel comfortable, whilst also having opportunities to reach further and learn new things. I believe that learning is forever, and that learning should never be constrained by just one syllabus/curriculum. Students tend to learn best when they are really interested in the subject, and I love to be able to give students the chance to explore their interests! 

I encourage students to tell me what they already know about a topic, and I don't assume that I'm always the expert! I believe that learners can learn from each other's experiences and knowledge too. I also encourage everyone to ask 'why' things work as they do, and to research further around topics that capture their interest.

I don't use AI tools to provide feedback to learners as I believe that feedback should be provided that is genuine and written in my own voice.

I also believe that everyone should be able to participate in my classes, so if there may be barriers or you require adjustments to allow you to participate in a class, please feel welcome to get in touch. 

Aside from initial verification when joining the session, I do not require students to use their camera for the full session (though sometimes I will request for certain activities!). I ask students to participate, but accept that this may be verbal discussion, writing in the chat box, or using zoom 'reactions' or visual cues on camera to respond during class. In general, I will invite anyone who would like to get involved to raise their hand, rather than putting an individual 'on the spot'.



MY CLASSES - OVERVIEW
I offer a range of sessions on Psychology topics - including themes such as Introduction to Neuroscience/Neuropsychology, Psychology of Music, Brain History, and Psychology of Gaming. The aim of these sessions is to capture students' interest, share knowledge from an unusual angle, and/or give space for students to discuss their interests while bringing in elements of the science of Psychology in an accessible way.

The most popular courses in 2023 were my ongoing sessions where students can further their learning in a relaxed setting, such as my Biology, Animal Anatomy, Plants, and Neuroscience colouring classes (where students can listen whilst making creative learning resources, with little pressure to answer questions and no pressure to be tested).

I offer lots of Flexible Schedule classes suitable for learners who prefer to take time to process information or to dig into a topic more deeply before coming back to discussion or to complete assignments. These classes allow students to take time to engage with material and written discussion threads outside of the constraints of a live session schedule, and spend additional time completing assignments that will encourage deeper thinking and topic enjoyment. These classes can also be great as holiday-projects!

I offer individual tutoring for students who would like to explore additional topics in Psychology, Biology, Mathematics, or Music. These sessions can be used to supplement other classes, as an individualised study session/program, or as subject-related mentoring.

For all my classes, if you don't see a suitable section scheduled, please do reach out as I can often fit in additional meetings!


WHAT ELSE DO I GET UP TO?
As well as teaching online on Outschool and independently, I also work as an Associate Lecturer in Psychology at the Open University. When I'm not teaching, I can usually be found practicing the violin, playing in orchestra, reading, and learning new things.

I previously completed a PhD in Psychology/Cognitive Neuroscience, which involved using EEG (an electrical brain recording method) to investigate visual perception. I have taught high school and university level Psychology classes since 2014, and I have tutored in Biology, Maths, and Music Theory since 2018. I started to learn the violin as an adult and progressed through to ABRSM Grade 8 in violin and AMusTCL Diploma level in music theory!

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$15

weekly or $90 for all content
11 pre-recorded lessons
6 weeks of teacher support
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1 year of access to the content

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Ages: 11-14

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