The expectation is that in sight clapping the student will clap or tap the “basic beat.” In simple time, the student should tap the main beat, and not the subdivisions. In 4/4, this would involve clapping four beats in each measure. Although there will likely be subdivisions within the clapping excerpt itself (tapped with the other hand, or spoken) the “basic beat” should be the quarter note.

In the sight-clapping requirements, 6/8 meter first appears at the Intermediate Levels (5-8). At these levels it can be helpful for students to tap the eighth-note pulse, which is more likely to result in a steady and accurate performance. However, as long as a steady tempo is maintained, tapping either 6 pulses per bar, or 2 beats per bar is acceptable. In either case, accuracy and steadiness of the tapping or clapping is the most important factor for evaluation.