Vol. 476 No. 7
279 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education the amount of class time given over in the curriculum to practical music activities in both primary and secondary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8224/97]
At primary level the time spent on music classes, including practical lessons, is estimated to be one hour per week, or 4.3 per cent of total instruction.
Because of the flexible integrated nature of the curriculum in primary schools, it is difficult to state categorically what amount of time is spent on any particular aspect of the curriculum.
It is the responsibility of the principal teacher, in consultation with the school staff, to outline a plan of work for the school as a whole and to ensure that each area of the curriculum is adequately dealt with in all classes.
At second level, all pupils who take music as an examination subject at the junior certificate must take a practical test as well as a written examination. On average the equivalent of at least one class period per week is given to practical music activities in the junior cycle.
At leaving certificate level, depending on the options taken within the syllabus, pupils are involved in practical musical activities for one or two class periods per week. Practical activities will be given greater emphasis in the new leaving certificate syllabus which will be introduced in September 1997.
