Assessment
HSC examinations
The external HSC examination measures student achievement in a range of syllabus outcomes.
The external examination and its marking relate to the syllabus by:
- providing clear links to syllabus outcomes
- enabling students to demonstrate the levels of achievement outlined in the Performance Band Descriptions
- applying marking guidelines based on criteria that relate to the quality of the response
- aligning performance in the examination each year to the standards established for the course.
Examination questions may require students to integrate knowledge, understanding and skills developed through studying the course.
Some students with disability may be eligible for HSC exam provisions when completing the HSC examination.
Music Extension HSC examination specifications
The HSC examination will consist of a written paper worth 20 marks and a Major work (Performance, Composition or Musicology) worth 40 marks.
Written paper – Interpretative practices (20 marks)
Time allowed: Approximately 1 hour plus 10 minutes reading time.
The paper will consist of two or three questions.
Questions may contain parts.
Questions will include stimulus and/or unseen material.
In their responses, students will be required to integrate their knowledge and understanding of Music context and Music language.
Major work (40 marks)
The Major work consists of ONE of the following options:
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The Major work must not duplicate any student performance, composition submission or musicology submission from the Music 2 course.
Performance examination (40 Marks)
The Performance examination is made up of two performance pieces: a solo piece (20 marks) and an ensemble piece (20 marks). The maximum combined length of the two pieces will be 16 minutes.
Solo (20 marks)
Students will perform a solo piece of music using:
- an instrument of choice
- the student’s voice
- a combination of both an instrument and the student’s voice.
The solo piece must be in contrast to the ensemble piece. Pieces may contrast in period, genre, mood or style.
Ensemble (20 marks)
Students will perform an ensemble piece of music using:
- an instrument of choice
- the student’s voice
- a combination of both an instrument and the student’s voice.
The ensemble piece must be in contrast to the solo piece. Pieces may contrast in period, genre, mood or style. The part played by the student in the ensemble piece must demonstrate the individual student’s use and understanding of ensemble skills.
OR
Submitted composition (40 Marks)
Students will compose and submit two original contrasting pieces or movements. Pieces or movements may contrast in period, genre, mood or style.
The maximum combined length of the two pieces or movements will be 5 minutes.
OR
Submitted Musicology essay (40 Marks)
Students will prepare and submit an essay of between 2000 and 2500 words on one or more aspect(s) of music that they have studied in the Music Extension course.
Further information
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- Adjustments to assessment for students with disability
- Life Skills
- Assessment Certification Examination (ACE)