The Fender Play curriculum structure is based on the following content flow: Path > Level > Course > Lesson
Each path is a complete curriculum that covers the basics, while focusing on a particular style of music. Paths provide ready-made lesson plans with everything laid out in a step-by-step way. We currently have paths in Rock, Blues, Folk, R&B/Soul, Country and Pop for guitar. Rock and Funk for bass and we also offer a ukulele learning path.
Paths are separated into levels. Guitar spans 7 levels whilst bass and ukulele span 5 levels. Each contain a series of courses that teach both skills and songs. The challenge increases as players progress through higher levels. Skills courses are interspersed with song courses and have been arranged to give students a way to immediately apply what they’ve learned to riffs and songs. The guitar paths include a Self Assessment course at the end of every level.
Levels 1-2:
- Introduce players to the essentials of basic playing
- Simplified chords, develop confidence and dexterity
- Practice songs & riffs at a beginning level
Levels 3-5:
- Common chords and the introduction of genre specific chords
- Focus on specific techniques and sounds that are signature to a style/genre
- Practice songs & riffs that challenge them progressively depending on the level they are working in
Levels 6-7:
- More advanced theory and rhythms
- More expressive lead techniques
- Intermediate songs and riffs which challenge users progressively depending on the level they are working in
Note: Only guitar goes to level 7. Bass goes to level 6 and ukulele goes to level 5.
LAUSD students should follow the paths outlined below:
- Guitar – Pop
- Bass – Rock
- Ukulele – Single Path
New students should begin at level 1, course 1. There are also Getting Started collections available for each instrument, which go into more detail of the initial fundamental skills needed to play. Find them on the collections page in Fender Play.
Continuing students may have a varying level of ability. We recommend finding a place in the path to start, which is suitable to the ability of your class. A great way to do this, is to try some of the song courses toward the end of a level, or the end of level reviews. If students find them easy, they might be ready for the proceeding level. If challenging, start from the top of that level.
Teachers also have access to our Scope & Sequence documents. These function as a map for teaching with Fender Play. There are versions for each instrument, and they detail information for each level and course found in Fender Play. But also include links to supporting resources, tips for delivery and assessment ideas which are aligned to CA state standards. To find the Scope & Sequence, go to the Resources section of your Fender Play Schoology Group. Or, contact your administrator.