• Syllabus for Beginning Guitar Course Wall Township High School 

    Course Overview:

    This year-long course is designed for students who are new to playing the guitar. Students will learn fundamental techniques, music theory, and performance skills. By the end of the course, students will be able to play a variety of songs, understand basic music notation, and demonstrate basic guitar techniques.

    Course Objectives:

    • Develop basic guitar-playing skills.

    • Understand music theory and terminology.

    • Learn to read basic music notation and tablature.

    • Perform simple songs individually and in groups.

    • Build confidence in performing in front of peers.

     

     

    Course Outline:

    Quarter 1: Introduction to Guitar

    • Week 1-2: Introduction to the guitar (parts of the guitar, holding the instrument, tuning)

    • Week 3-4: Basic strumming patterns and rhythm exercises

    • Week 5: Introduction to basic chords (C, G, D, E minor)

    • Week 6: Simple songs using learned chords (e.g., "Knockin' on Heaven's Door," "Three Little Birds")

    • Week 7-8: Understanding music notation and tablature

    • Assessment: Basic chord play test and written quiz on guitar parts and tuning

    Quarter 2: Expanding Skills

    • Week 9-10: Introduction to fingerpicking techniques

    • Week 11-12: More chords (A, F, E, D7) and transitions between chords

    • Week 13: Playing along with tracks (finding the right tempo)

    • Week 14-15: Learning a popular song using fingerpicking or chord strumming

    • Week 16: Group performances and peer reviews

    • Assessment: Fingerpicking assignment and song performance

    Quarter 3: Songwriting and Music Theory

    • Week 17-18: Basics of music theory (scales, key signatures, and chord progressions)

    • Week 19-20: Introduction to songwriting (lyrics and melody)

    • Week 21-22: Writing simple songs or melodies using learned chords

    • Week 23-24: Collaborating in small groups to arrange and perform original songs

    • Assessment: Submit a written song (lyrics and chord structure) and group performance

    Quarter 4: Performance and Review

    • Week 25-26: Learn about stage presence and performance techniques

    • Week 27-28: Preparing for a final performance (practice sessions)

    • Week 29: Individual performance presentations (students perform their favorite song)

    • Week 30: Reflection and review of the year, discussing progress and future goals

    • Final Assessment: Group concert showcasing original and cover songs

     

     

    Materials Needed:

    • Acoustic Nylon String Guitar Provided by WHS 

    • Dedicated 3 Ring Binder with clear sleeves 

    • Supplemental Materials provided by WHS. All materials are  available as a PDF in Google Classroom 

    Grading:

    • Classwork/Homework/Participation: 20%

    • Projects: 20%

    • Assessments (quizzes and performance evaluations): 30%

     

    Additional Notes:

    • Students are encouraged to practice at home for at least 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times a week.

    • Optional after-school jam sessions may be organized for additional practice and collaboration.

    • Students should come to class prepared with their instruments and materials.

     

     

    This syllabus provides a structured yet flexible framework to guide students through the basics of playing the guitar, fostering creativity, collaboration, and musical appreciation.