S2-S3 Expressive Arts 

Course Outline:     

The Art Department have developed an exciting and engaging S3 course which will be split into three strands preparing for entry to National level study in S4.  

Expressive studies – Comprises of projects building on experience gained in S1 and S2 which gives pupils experience using a range of materials and techniques. Individual projects involving drawing, painting, printing and sculpting will provide pupils essential skills needed to create artwork in various styles. Particular attention will be given to the use of visual elements to create landscapes, still life and portraits.

Design studies – Pupils follow a process working towards a 2D or 3D design solution following a brief. Market research and investigation will inform the development of ideas towards a finished piece of design such as a themed mask or headpiece.

Critical studies - This is the written element of the course which is completed alongside the practical projects. Pupils will complete individual, group and whole class research to explore the workings of artists and designers. This element is essential to ensure Art and Design vocabulary is understood to allow pupils to evaluate their own and others’ work.

Course Outline:

The aim of the Drama Course is to further develop the skills of all pupils to become successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors.

This Course would be of benefit to those pupils who have a genuine interest in theatre and performing. Activities will centre around exploring the Production Skills of Sound, Lighting, Make-Up, Set, Props, Costume, Directing and Acting. Lessons will consist of practical workshops coupled with written work that focuses on the terminology required to discuss the skills being learnt in class. This leads into the National course where pupils can specialise in one Production Skill for their final Production exam.

All pupils are expected to perform to a live audience on a regular basis. Pupils will be asked to evaluate their own work, as well as the work of others. Video evidence will also be included.

Pupils may be expected to attend the theatre as part of a school trip and/or personal visit and there is the possibility of pupils taking part in visiting practical workshops run by professionals in the theatre industry. Homework will consist of practising Drama terminology, learning lines, researching, and keeping unit booklets up to date.

Course Outline:

Pupils will specialise in performing on two instruments, incorporating self/peer assessment of solo and group performance. This is a large element of the course and pupils will gain confidence performing to an audience. Pupils will be expected to consistently reflect on their performing through the use of a performance log, this will help them to evaluate and set targets. We always encourage pupils taking music in S3 to join extra curricular groups at lunch times for further performance opportunities.

Additionally, pupils will develop an understanding of some technologies and software (Audacity, Musescore, Sibelius and Garageband) to produce recordings and create and develop original melodic ideas and compositions. Alongside, pupils will review and evaluate their own and others‘ work.

To support the Performance and Composition, there will also be a Listening element where pupils will listen to and write about different styles, instruments and techniques. Pupils will develop a deeper understanding of music theory, literacy and vocabulary throughout the course.

All three elements of the course will be covered through a variety of contexts such as World Music, Film Music and Rock and Pop Music, Scottish music and Historical musical periods. Furthermore pupils will gain the skills to identify appropriate musical concepts and give short written analysis of excerpts of music. This very much feeds into further study in the senior phase.