Choir
Choir focuses on the development of music literacy through vocal performance. Students will engage in units of instruction designed to develop their understanding of vocal techniques, aural (listening) skills, music theory/composition, and the role of music in various contexts. Large and small ensemble groups will prepare for performances at various school events and concerts throughout the year. This course is ideal for students in grades 6-8 with the desire and motivation to study music. No prior experience is necessary.
Band
Band focuses on the development of music literacy through performance on woodwind (flute, clarinet) and brass instruments (trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba). Students will engage in units of instruction designed to develop their understanding of performance techniques, aural (listening) skills, music theory/composition, and the role of music in various contexts. Large and small ensemble groups will prepare for performances at various school events and concerts throughout the year. This course is ideal for students in grades 6-8 with the desire and motivation to study music. No prior instrumental music experience is necessary. Students need access to an instrument, which can be rented from the ARC for 600 SAR. Home practice is required.
Orchestra
Orchestra 1 focuses on the development of music literacy through performance on violin. Students will engage in units of instruction designed to develop their understanding of performance techniques, aural (listening) skills, music theory/composition, and the role of music in various contexts. Large and small ensemble groups will prepare for performances at various school events and concerts throughout the year. This course is ideal for students in grades 6-8 with the desire and motivation to study music. No prior instrumental music experience is necessary. Students will need access to an instrument, which can be rented from the ARC for 600 SAR. Home practice is required.
Percussion Ensemble
Percussion Ensemble cultivates musical skills through the vibrant world of percussion instruments. This class offers a unique opportunity to explore rhythm, dynamics, and teamwork. Students will experiment with various percussive techniques, learning to play instruments ranging from drums to xylophones. The curriculum includes units on performance methods, listening and aural recognition, as well as an introduction to music theory and composition. These ensembles will rehearse diligently to showcase their talents at school events and concerts throughout the academic year.
Art 1
Art 1 introduces students to the foundational concepts of visual arts, beginning with an exploration of identity. This unit is especially relevant at the start of a new school year, as students navigate their place in a new grade and community. Through various art projects, learners investigate how their personal identity meshes with the school spirit and ethos of being an AIS-R learner. Throughout this semester long course, students curate personal selections of artworks that exemplify specific Elements of Art, learning to appreciate these as tools used by artists. Students also practice art criticism as they learn to assess and discuss the technical and creative merits of their own artworks and those of their peers.
Art 2
Art 2 takes students on a deeper journey into the world of art, focusing on the evolution of artists and their influences. The 'Meet the Masters' unit involves independent research into a chosen artist, culminating in the creation of a Virtual Art Gallery and an original artwork inspired by the artist. Students will present their findings and creations to their peers, facilitating an understanding of various artist styles and art movements from the 19th and 20th centuries. Collaborating with peers focused on the same art movement, students will create a comprehensive display showcasing artworks that are representative of the style.
Art 3
Art 3 revisits the theme of identity, allowing students to delve deeper into understanding their own evolving place within the school and the broader world. This reflective unit is tailored to accommodate the growth and changes students experience at this stage. Students also hone their sculpting and painting skills as they investigate the historical, topographical, and geographical influences on pottery and sculpture around the world. Learners engage in creating clay masks and pottery, emphasizing cultural markers from various cultures.
Drama 1
Drama 1 is an introduction to drama. In this course, you will focus on improving self-confidence and communication skills. You will investigate how to use physical movement as a primary method of storytelling, developing your collaborative and creative skills. Through reading aloud and radio drama, you will explore how to utilize your voice expressively to perform with charisma and hold the audience’s attention. This course will empower you with confidence and empathy. Drama 1 culminates in a small classroom production.
Drama 2
Drama 2 is the next step in the pathway of Drama, building upon the skills, knowledge and understanding of Drama 1. You will engage in an exciting journey of self exploration as you continue to develop your vocal and physical performance skills while exploring storytelling and production. Additionally, you will discover the world of Commedia dell’Arte through masks and improvisation. The culminating task will be performed in front of a small audience.
Spanish I/French I
Students in Spanish I or French I will explore and discover the language and the culture of the people who speak this modern world language. Learners will begin to develop their ability to understand simple spoken and written Spanish or French. At the same time, they will engage in basic conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings and exchange opinions. The learners will communicate orally and in writing in a culturally appropriate manner about familiar topics that include self, family, school, and hobbies. Vocabulary and basic grammatical structures are taught within the context of everyday topics. This level sets the groundwork for cultural understanding and language proficiency, fostering a deep appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of the Spanish- or French-speaking world.
Spanish II/French II
Students in Spanish II or French II will explore and discover more of the language. Learners will continue to develop their ability to understand in more complex spoken and written Spanish/French. The learners will learn to communicate orally and in writing in a culturally appropriate manner about food and ordering in restaurants to home topics that include chores, clothing and shopping to end up by being a tourist in a Spanish/French speaking country. This stage not only broadens the vocabulary and grammatical understanding within everyday contexts but also reinforces cultural competencies, allowing students to communicate more effectively and appropriately in a variety of situations.
Spanish/French III
Students in Spanish/French III will build upon their learning as they continue to explore the language and the culture of the people who speak these modern world languages. Students continue to develop their ability to understand spoken and written Spanish/French. At the same time, they learn to communicate orally and in writing in a culturally appropriate manner about a variety of familiar topics that include self, family and friends, celebrations, daily routines, camping, and health. Students engage in more sophisticated interpersonal conversations, information exchange, and opinion sharing, all within culturally relevant contexts. At this level students refine vocabulary and grammatical structures, navigating a wide array of social and practical situations with greater fluency and cultural sensitivity. Active skill transfer through powerful learning opportunities is a key component, preparing students for real-world applications of their language skills.