What is it and why should I do it?
Music Investigation requires students to design an Investigation Topic based on their personal musical interests that has a performance-based outcome. This topic determines the scope, content and direction of the student’s study across the year. The student’s work for each Area of study, Outcome and assessment task, including the end-of-year performance examination, must draw on content relevant to the Investigation Topic. Classes involve both performance research in their topic and performances of works that are representative of that topic. Students’ research of music characteristics and performance practices representative of the topic underpins the Investigation, Composition/arrangement/improvisation, and Performance areas of study.
How much homework/study will I have?
All Unit 3 and 4 subjects require 3-5 hours of study per week.
Students are expected to be practising their instrument/s consistently throughout the year. It is recommended that students spend at least 2.5 hours (5x 30 minute practise sessions) a week specifically on the performance material for their topic, as well as additional time on research and analysis of relevant material.
What contributes to my study score?
Unit 3 consists of one SAC split into three parts; worth 30% of your study score.
In Unit 4, only Outcome 2 has a SAC; a composition, improvisation, or arrangement informed by the students Investigation Topic. It is worth 20% of your study score.
| Assessment | Task | Marks | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 3 SAC: Part I | Research report (and presentation) | 40 | 30% |
| Unit 3 SAC: Part II | Technical demonstration and discussion | 40 | |
| Unit 3 SAC: Part III | Response to questions (based on Mini Program performance/Unit 3 work) | 20 | |
| Unit 4 SAC | Composition/Improvisation/Arrangement | 100 | 20% |
| Exam | External performance exam - held in Term 4 | 200 | 50% |
How do I satisfactorily complete the unit?
To pass any VCE unit you need to demonstrate that you have met the Outcomes.
Outcome 1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to explain and justify their interpretative approach to performance of a program of works.
Outcome 2
On completion of this unit the student should be able to compose/improvise/arrange an original music work and perform a music work and explain how it is characteristic of a music style, tradition and/or genre relevant to the Investigation Topic.
Outcome 3
On completion of this unit the student should be able to demonstrate artistic intent and understanding in a cohesive and engaging performance of music works.