Clarification details
Updated September 2015. This document has been updated although no new issues have arisen through moderation.
The purpose of clarifications
We create clarification documents to help people understand the current requirements of achievement standards. Clarifications do not introduce new criteria, change the intent of the standard, or change what we expect from assessment.
These documents unpack and explain the language and intent of the standard so people interpret and apply the standard consistently. We provide examples or guidance as illustrations only. They are not prescriptions or requirements.
For official requirements, always refer to the current version of the achievement standard as published by NZQA.
Suggested programme length
A programme of two pieces would be approximately 5-8 minutes in length.
Substantially different playing techniques
The discussion around whether violin/viola, flute/piccolo, and classical guitar/electric guitar offer substantially different playing techniques should take place in professional forums, e.g. cluster groups, and may need to be decided on as a case-by-case basis, based on the intent of the standard. Itinerant teachers of music are well placed to be involved in these discussions.