Visual & Performing Arts
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
611 Introduction to Art - Grades 9, 10 (0.5 credit)
Students are introduced to the visual arts through readings and discussion in the resource text ArtTalk. This is interspersed with lecture and studio experiences. The course is a nice balance of academic and studio experiences. There are quizzes and some tests.
612 Art 1 - Grades 9, 10 (1 credit)
This year-long course may be chosen by the serious art student in place of 611. The program provides opportunities for students to develop skills in studio production, art history, and critical thinking. Students purchase some supplies. Although primarily a studio course, there will be some academic material, quizzes, tests, and sketchbook assignments. Prerequisite: The successful completion of an art aptitude survey and approval of the art instructor.
613 Art 2 -Grades 10, 11, 12 1 credit
Art 2 students continue to develop and refine skills learned in Art 1 as well as learn in more depth the various art processes, skills in handling various media, and higher level problem solving. Students are responsible for providing most of their art supplies. Like Art 1, there will be some academic material, quizzes, tests, and sketchbook assignments. Prerequisite: A/B in Art 1, and approval of the art instructor.
616 Honors Art 3 - Grades 11, 12 (1 credit)
617 Honors Art 4 - Grade 12 (1 credit)
Honors Art 3 and 4 are courses designed for those students who have successfully completed Art 1 and 2, 3 and who may pursue a career in art. Students continue to refine studio skills with an emphasis on developing individual interests and a more personal response to art. Students will be encouraged to develop portfolios of their best efforts. High level critical thinking is encouraged. Like Art 2, students are responsible for most supplies. Prerequisites: Instructor’s approval, A/B in Art 2, 3 and a sincere commitment to art.
618 Art for Life: Lettering and Design - Grades 11, 12 (0.5 credit)
This course is for the student who would like to learn some techniques for freehand lettering and basic design. Studio projects range from individual and expressive lettering to very structured formal calligraphy and could include bio-poems, illuminated lettering, calligrams and other design projects. Formal calligraphy is taught for approximately 1/3 of the semester. Students are required to purchase their own supplies. There is homework in this course.
621 Introduction to Music - Grades 9, 10 (0.5 credit)
This course introduces students to the music and lives of several composers from each musical era. In addition, students learn to play the recorder, which introduces them to the basics of reading music notation.
622 Mixed Chorus - Grades 9, 10 (1 credit)
This course offers an opportunity for any student new to performing to participate in a performing ensemble. Students learn the fundamentals of music and rhythm, as well as style, and technique. Students are required to perform in four concerts a year. Emphasis is on sight reading and developing good vocal technique.
623 Concert Choir - Grades 10, 11, 12 (1 credit)
Concert Choir is an extension of Mixed Chorus and will build on existing vocal training. Students will perform in four concerts per year. Emphasis is placed on music reading and elements of choral technique, such as breathing phrasing, and blending. Prerequisite: Prior enrollment in Mixed Chorus or approval of the music director.
631 Beginning Band - Grades 9, 10, 11 (1 credit)
This course is designed to teach students how to play a band instrument, with the understanding that the student would enroll in Concert Band the following year (or semester). This would be ideal for students who have never played an instrument, as well as for students who want to learn to play a different instrument that the one they currently play. Students could use their own instrument, rent an instrument from a music store, or use a school-owned instrument for a yearly fee of $40. Prerequisite: Approval of the director.
633 Concert Band - Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 (1 credit)
The Concert Band performs in four concerts per year. The group also performs at pep rallies, football games, basketball games, community events, and music festivals. Prerequisite: Participation in Band at the student’s previous school or approval of the music director. (Allows students to participate in Jazz Band)
636 Music Theory & Composition 1 - Grades 11, 12 (0.5 credit)
This course provides students with a basic knowledge of music analysis and composition. Keys, scales, harmony, and chord structure are emphasized. Prerequisite: Participation in a performance class or ability to read music.
637 Music Theory & Composition 2 - Grades 11, 12 (0.5 credit)
This course enables students to build on their music theory and composition skills. Students compose music to be performed for the other students in the class. Prerequisite: Music Theory & Composition 1
638 Music for Life - Grades 11, 12 (0.5 credit)
This course gives students an understanding of the history of music from biblical times through the present day. Students are taught to appreciate various styles and forms of music. In addition, students are taught basic piano skills.
641 Introduction to Acting - Grades 9, 10 (0.5 credit)
Enter the exciting world of stage and screen as students learn about theatre down through the ages! During this participatory class, learn the basics of stage movement and design, play theatre games, and learn skills of acting and public speaking in a comfortable, encouraging atmosphere.
642 Acting for Life - Grades 11, 12 (0.5 credit)
This course is for inexperienced, but interested actors. Students study the basics of acting through improvisation, acting exercises, monologues, story telling, duet scenes, and oral interpretation. Students role play interviews and other real life situations, use sales techniques, and participate in group discussions. Prerequisite: Instructor’s Approval