VISUAL ARTS COURSES

The JIS Visual Arts Program is designed to ensure an enjoyable, progressively challenging, and differentiated art education for all high school students. Building upon artistic learning at the middle school level, high school visual arts courses will gradually become more intensive while strengthening and developing the art student’s artistic foundation. While an abundance of materials, tools and equipment are available, art students choosing to use materials above and beyond the provided general supplies will be expected to either provide or pay appropriate costs.

Photography and Design classes rely solely on advanced technology hardware and software designed for creative purposes. Digital SLR cameras are provided for class use as well as off-campus checkout opportunities. Students are not held responsible for supplying curricular equipment, but they are held accountable for lost or damaged equipment. The appropriate software will be installed into the student’s MacBook Air.

Before choosing International Baccalaureate (IB) Visual Arts and/or Advanced Placement (AP) Art and Design, it is highly recommended that art students complete a minimum of three (3) semesters of JIS high school visual art classes while earning top grades in every art class. Art students interested in IB Visual Arts and/or AP Art and Design should prepare a portfolio of accomplished work spanning the past three years. Portfolios will be shared with a JIS high school visual arts teacher for evaluation to ensure appropriate course placement.  If clarification is needed, a student/Teacher meeting will be arranged by the art teacher. 

Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 1 (38874s)

MoE Approved

One semester - 0.5 credit   and   0.5 MoE Indonesian Studies Requirement Credit for Non-Indonesian Passport Holders

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

This fun one-semester course aims to develop the art student’s drawing and painting techniques through direct connections and influences involving Indonesian Culture. Within a curriculum emphasizing Indonesian drawing and painting techniques, art students will work from direct observation, researched images, and imagination. Visual arts techniques and concepts are explored while developing a stronger understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. Connections to historically valued and contemporary Indonesian artists will strengthen the student’s holistic understanding of our host country. Where appropriate in the course, students will incorporate technology into their artistic learning. A visual journal will be created for documenting his or her Indonesian Studies journey from initial design ideas to the completion of final Indonesian inspired artworks each concluding with a self-evaluation using the 'Elements of Art and Principles of Design.' 

Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 2 (38875s)

MoE Approved

One semester - 0.5 credit   and   0.5 MoE Indonesian Studies Requirement Credit for Non-Indonesian Passport Holders

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  

• Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 1

or

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school VA Teacher or VA HoD

This advancing fun one-semester course aims to develop the art student’s drawing and painting techniques through direct connections and influences with Indonesian Culture. Within a curriculum emphasizing Indonesian drawing, batik, and painting techniques, art students will work from direct observation, researched images, and imagination. Visual arts techniques and concepts are explored while developing a stronger understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. Increased understanding of historically valued and contemporary Indonesian artists founded in Indonesian Studies: Art and Culture 1 will increasingly strengthen the student’s holistic understanding of our host country. Where appropriate in the course, students will incorporate technology into their artistic learning. A visual journal will be created for documenting his or her Indonesian Studies journey from initial design ideas to the completion of final Indonesian inspired artworks each concluding with a self-evaluation using the 'Elements of Art and Principles of Design.'  This course is highly recommended for art students interested in Advanced Art 2D, AP Drawing, AP 2D Art and Design, and IB Visual Arts.

Photography and Design 1 (96411s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

In this course, students refine their photography skills using DSLR and mirrorless cameras, gaining mastery over manual settings and composition techniques. They learn to control shutter speed, ISO, and aperture to achieve creative and technical precision in their images. With a strong focus on the elements of art and principles of design, students explore how composition shapes meaning and enhances visual storytelling. Through hands-on experience with professional editing software, students develop proficiency in Adobe Lightroom for organizing, editing, and exporting their work. All enrolled students will have access to Nikon cameras and Adobe Creative Suite licenses to support their learning. The curriculum begins with an introduction to digital photography and progressively advances through technical and artistic techniques. As they experiment with various photographic styles and methods, students develop both technical expertise and a personal artistic vision. 

Photography and Design 2 (96412s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  

• Photography and Design 1

or

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school VA Teacher or VA HoD

This course builds upon the skills and concepts introduced in Photography & Design 1, providing students with an opportunity to further explore the artistic potential of digital photography. With a strong emphasis on photography as a fine art discipline, students experiment with a range of creative techniques, including cyanotypes, collage and composite photography, and pinhole camera construction. They also develop proficiency in studio lighting, using shadows and reflections to enhance portraits and still-life compositions. As the course progresses, students undertake a personal photographic project, refining their unique visual voice by conveying ideas through imagery. Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop are integral to the curriculum, and all enrolled students receive software licenses and have access to Nikon cameras  to support their work. By the end of the semester, students will have built a strong foundation in digital arts, preparing them for Advanced Design and Photography, AP 2D Art and Design, or IB Visual Arts.

Indonesian Studies: Carving and Crafts (3889s)

MoE Approved

One semester - 0.5 credit and  0.5 MoE Indonesian Studies Requirement Credit for Non-Indonesian Passport Holders

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

This exciting one-semester course aims to develop the student’s appreciation and awareness of a variety of Indonesia's ancient and contemporary Cultures and the crafts those cultures create. Students will learn about traditional myths, motifs and techniques for incorporating those motifs into wooden objects. Students will learn to apply the design cycle and use different technologies like laser cutters, 3D modeling software and different power tools to make their own wooden creations. As students learn different woodworking and carving techniques, they will further develop their ability to analyze cultural works from the Indonesian Archipelago in terms of the elements of art and principles of design.

Sculpture and Metals 1 (96511s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

This fun one-semester course specializes in the design and production of 3D (three-dimensional) artworks. Final artworks will include traditional sculpture, ceramic, and jewelry formats. The mediums utilized in this course includes, but are in no way limited to; clay, wire, metals, natural materials, styrofoam, found objects, wood, etc. Creative assignments are designed to enhance the understanding of and ability to complete self-evaluations using the 'Elements of Art and Principles of Design.' A visual journal documents the learning of the students in his or her journey towards the initial ideas for the completion of final artworks.

Sculpture and Metals 2 (96512s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  

• Sculpture and Metals 1

or

• Indonesian Studies: Carving and Crafts

This advancing fun one-semester course specializes in the design and production of 3D (three-dimensional) artworks. Techniques and styles learned in Sculpture and Metals 1 are utilized in this advanced level course and will incorporate mediums including, but are in no way limited to; clay, wire, metals, natural materials, styrofoam, found objects, wood, etc. Creative assignments are designed to enhance the student's understanding and use of the elements of art and principles of design. Where appropriate in the course, art students will incorporate technology into their approach. A visual journal documents the student's journey towards the initial ideas for the completion of final artworks. This course is highly recommended for art students interested in Advanced Art 3D, AP 3D Art and Design, or IB Visual Arts.

Design Communication 1 (9415y)

One year - 1 credit 

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

This is a study of visual communication in both digital and physical design promoting ideas and information through Digital Media. Following the design process, students will learn to use a wide range of Graphic Design methods and effectively convey ideas, message, and concepts through visual and design elements to engage, inform, and inspire a specific audience. Examples of student experiences include digital graphic design projects utilizing industry-standard software and physical graphic design projects aligned with current trends in the design industry.

Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (88305s)

One Semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD CAM) is a semester-long course that immerses students in digital design and fabrication. The course is divided into two main areas of focus. In the first half, students will use Adobe Illustrator to create vector-based designs and manufacture parts using a laser cutter. In the second half, they will learn Fusion 360, developing 3D models and producing their own products or components with 3D printers. This course is ideal for students who want to explore computer-based design and manufacturing, whether for academic projects in Design & Technology and Robotics or for extracurricular activities requiring custom-made parts. While some simple workshop tools will be used, most of the fabrication will be completed digitally.

Graphic Design (84801s)

One Semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

This semester course allows students to use the Adobe Creative Suite applications to create both bitmap and vector graphics. Using this industry standard software, students create digital artwork that is suitable for stand-alone presentations or for use within web designs, print media, or other digital designs. The class will take students from the basics of digital creation to create interesting and informative compositions. The course includes a mixture of instructor-led activities and independent learning with culmination projects of the student’s designs for a given brief. Prior experience in the software is not expected and the only prerequisite for the course is a willingness to explore and create.

Design Technology 1 (9430y)

One year - 1 credit 

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Design Technology 1 requires students to determine needs or problems in their environment, analyze and evaluate existing products and systems, and suggest their own alternative solutions to perceived needs. Students develop their ideas graphically, using CAD software or pencil drawings, then plan how to manufacture their solution including selecting appropriate materials and techniques. Depending on the project, students may produce a prototype or model using the latest available equipment and technology as used in Industry, before making a full sized piece. Students will pursue the design process as practiced by professional designers. Design Technology 1 concentrates on projects that can be made mostly using wood, MDF or plastics. There is an emphasis on learning techniques of wood joinery and becoming skilled in the use of traditional hand or powered tools found in a wood shop.

Design Technology 2 (9435y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  

• Design Technology 1

This course is a continuation of Design Technology I and will follow the same course structure; to develop projects utilizing more advanced manufacturing techniques and a greater knowledge of materials and equipment. Design Technology 2 focuses on projects utilizing predominantly metals, metalworking engineering techniques and equipment. Students will also be encouraged to develop projects that tie together woodworking techniques from Design Technology 1 and metals. All course projects can be developed on an incline of difficulty/complexity and will be continually assessed. This course is intended for students interested in Engineering, Architecture or Graphic Design.  Earning an “A” average would be an indictor the student is prepared for IB H1 Visual Art or AP Art & Design: 3D Design. Upon teacher recommendation, this course may be taken for a second time. 

Advanced Art 2D (96602y)

Grades 10, 11, 12

One year - 1 credit   or   Semester  1 only - 0.5 credit

Prerequisite:  

• Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 2

or

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school VA Teacher or VA HoD

Advanced Art 2D is designed for students who are passionate about taking their basic art skills and knowledge to the next level. Students will refine their skills in drawing, painting, collage, illustration, and digital media while exploring advanced techniques and concepts. The curriculum emphasizes creative problem-solving, personal expression, and portfolio development, preparing students for college-level art studies such as AP Drawing, AP 2D Art and Design, and IB Visual Art. Projects will focus on composition, color theory, design, medium techniques, and knowledge of multiple art forms. Students will also maintain a visual journal to document their creative process and inspiration for the creation of their Studio Work. This course is ideal for students seeking to elevate their artistic abilities and build a competitive art portfolio.

Advanced Art 3D (96603y)

Grades 10, 11, 12

One year - 1 credit   or   Semester 1 only - 0.5 credit

Prerequisite:  Minimum two semesters completed of the below foundation courses

• Sculpture and Metals 1

• Sculpture and Metals 2

• Indonesian Studies: Carving and Crafts

• Design Technology 1

or   

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school VA Teacher or VA HoD

Advanced Art 3D is designed for students who are passionate about taking their basic art skills and knowledge to the next level. Students will refine their skills in additive and subtractive sculptures using materials such as clay, metal, wood, wire, foam, and found objects while exploring advanced techniques and concepts. The curriculum emphasizes creative problem-solving, personal expression, and portfolio development, preparing students for college-level art studies such as AP 3D Art and Design and IB Visual Art. Projects will focus on composition, design, medium techniques, and knowledge of multiple art forms. Students will also maintain a visual journal to document their creative process and inspiration for the creation of their Studio Work. This course is ideal for students seeking to elevate their artistic abilities and build a competitive art portfolio.

Advanced Design and Photography (96413y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Minimum two semesters completed of the below foundation courses

• Photography and Design 1

• Photography and Design 2

• Graphic Design

• Design Communications 1

                  or 

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school VA Teacher or VA HoD

Advanced Design and Photography builds on the foundational concepts introduced in Graphic Design, Photography, and Design Communications. This course is designed to enhance students' technical and creative skills while preparing them for advanced coursework such as AP 2D Art and Design and IB Visual Arts. Through hands-on projects and critical exploration, students will refine their artistic vision, develop a professional portfolio, and gain confidence in applying advanced techniques in both design and photography.

AP Drawing (98254y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Art Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 2

• Advanced Art 2D

AP Drawing is an intensive, fast-paced course designed to prepare students for the rigors of college-level art. Over eight months, students are required to produce a portfolio of eight to ten artworks, culminating in a final submission to AP Central. The Sustained Investigation portfolio explores and visually conveys a cohesive, student-chosen theme.  The Selected Works portfolio demonstrates technical skill and conceptual depth. To succeed in this course, students must manage their time effectively and be prepared to dedicate significant effort both inside and outside scheduled classes. Prior art experience is critical for students entering the program. Successful completion of two to three high school art courses is highly recommended, as well as a solid understanding of the ‘Elements of Art’ and Principles of Design.’

Final submission includes 15 Sustained Investigation images that explore a cohesive, student-chosen theme and 5 selected exemplar works that demonstrate technical mastery. Students are encouraged to push beyond their comfort zones by exploring abstract, observational, and inventive compositions. They are expected to demonstrate a high level of technical skill while engaging with complex artistic concepts. The course fosters the development of “college-level” mastery in composition, execution, and the use of various tools and mediums. Students are also encouraged to approach their work with diligence, as the program’s pace requires consistent production and self-discipline

AP 2D Art and Design (98255y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Art Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 2

• Graphic Design

• Design Communications

• Photography and Design 2

• Advanced Art 2D

• Advanced Design & Photography

The AP 2D Art and Design course is a rigorous, fast-paced program equivalent to a first-year college art class. Over eight months, students will develop a portfolio of eight to ten artworks that culminate in a final submission to AP Central. The Sustained Investigation portfolio explores and visually conveys a cohesive, student-chosen theme.  The Selected Works portfolio demonstrates technical skill and conceptual depth. The course requires consistent effort, strong time management, and dedication, as students will need to complete a significant portion of their work outside of class.

Students entering AP 2D Art and Design are highly encouraged to have completed two to three high school art courses and possess a solid understanding of the ‘Elements of Art and Principles of Design.’  This foundational knowledge is essential for solving creative problems and creating sophisticated, college-level work. The course emphasizes a broad range of two-dimensional approaches, including photography, digital media, printmaking, drawing, painting, and collage, allowing students to explore traditional and contemporary art-making methods.

AP 3D Art and Design (98256y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Art Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Sculpture and Metals 2

• Advanced Art 3D

• Design Technology 2

AP 3D Art and Design is an intensive, fast-paced course designed to prepare students for the demands of college-level art and design. Over eight months, students are required to create a portfolio of three-dimensional works, culminating in a final submission to AP Central. The Sustained Investigation portfolio explores and visually conveys a cohesive, student-chosen theme.  The Selected Works portfolio demonstrates technical skill and conceptual depth. Success in this course requires effective time management and a commitment to producing high-quality, innovative work both in and outside of class. Students are strongly encouraged to have completed two to three high school art courses and possess a solid understanding of the ‘Elements of Art and Principles of Design’ as they relate to three-dimensional forms.

Students are encouraged to explore a variety of three-dimensional processes, such as sculpture, ceramics, installation art, product design, and assemblage. The course emphasizes experimentation and problem-solving, challenging students to use space, form, surface, and materials effectively to create dynamic and meaningful works of art.

This program fosters the development of “college-level” mastery in concept, composition, and execution. Students will refine their technical skills and develop their understanding of spatial relationships, innovative material use, and design principles. Each project is accompanied by thorough documentation of the creative process, which is assessed alongside the artworks to evaluate growth, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate ideas visually and spatially. Given the rigorous nature of the course, students are expected to approach their work with diligence, discipline, and consistency. 

IB H1 Visual Arts (9820y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite:

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Art Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 2

• Photography and Design 2

• Advanced Art 2D

• Advanced Design & Photography

• Design Technology 2

The first year of the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Higher Level (HL) Visual Arts course is designed for students with a strong passion for visual arts and a commitment to deepening their artistic knowledge and practice. This rigorous program prepares students for advanced study at the college or university level. Students are encouraged to have completed a minimum of three (3) semesters of JIS high school visual art classes and a solid foundation in the 'Elements of Art and Principles of Design,' ideally gained through prior high school art courses. The curriculum emphasizes experimentation with diverse mediums and techniques, including fine art, digital art, and sculpture, fostering the development of a personal artistic voice and intellectual growth.

The course is organized around three core components. The Comparative Study is a written analysis of three professional artworks, exploring their context, techniques, and significance within historical and contemporary art movements. The Process Portfolio documents artistic exploration, experimentation, and reflection, showcasing the student’s creative journey and growth. The Exhibition features a curated selection of three to four artworks created using advanced techniques, reflecting the student’s ability to push creative boundaries.

In the second semester, students focus on their Process Portfolio and Exhibition, applying professional techniques while exploring innovative approaches to their work. The Process Portfolio serves as a critical tool for tracking artistic development and informs the final IB assessment. Throughout the course, students are challenged to demonstrate university-level artistic skills, conceptual thinking, and an understanding of both practical and theoretical aspects of art. By the end of the two years, students will have developed a comprehensive body of work that showcases their artistic mastery, positioning them for future academic or professional success in the visual arts.

IB S1 Visual Arts (9811y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite:

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Art Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Indonesian Studies: Drawing and Painting 2

• Photography and Design 2

• Advanced Art 2D

• Advanced Design & Photography

• Design Technology 2

The first year of the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Standard Level (SL) Visual Arts course is designed for students with a passion for visual arts  but not focused on pursuing visual arts at the college or university level. Students are encouraged to have completed a minimum of two (2) semesters of JIS high school visual art classes and a solid foundation in the 'Elements of Art and Principles of Design,' ideally gained through prior high school art courses. The curriculum emphasizes experimentation with diverse mediums and techniques, including fine art, digital art, and sculpture, fostering the development of a personal artistic voice and intellectual growth.

The course is organized around three core components. The Comparative Study is a written analysis of three professional artworks, exploring their context, techniques, and significance within historical and contemporary art movements. The Process Portfolio documents artistic exploration, experimentation, and reflection, showcasing the student’s creative journey and growth. The Exhibition features a curated selection of three to four artworks created using advanced techniques, reflecting the student’s ability to push creative boundaries.

In the second semester, students focus on their Process Portfolio and Exhibition, applying professional techniques while exploring innovative approaches to their work. The Process Portfolio serves as a critical tool for tracking artistic development and informs the final IB assessment. Throughout the course, students are challenged to demonstrate university-level artistic skills, conceptual thinking, and an understanding of both practical and theoretical aspects of art. By the end of the two years, students will have developed a comprehensive body of work that showcases their artistic mastery, positioning them for future academic or professional success in the visual arts.

IB H2 Visual Arts (9830y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite:  

• IB H1 Visual Arts

In the second year of the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Higher Level (HL) Visual Arts course, students are expected to build upon the practical and research work completed during the first year. IB H2 Visual Arts students are encouraged to become increasingly independent, self-motivated, and self-critical while focusing on the development of a cohesive portfolio of eight to eleven Exhibition artworks. Artworks must visually convey thematic exploration centered around a chosen theme or topic, reflect the student’s artistic voice, and demonstrate mastery of learned skills.

Throughout the year, students continue to refine and expand their twenty-five screen Process Portfolio. The portfolio must include documented artist research, experimentation, technical growth, and conceptual exploration. The portfolio demonstrates their creative journey and development as reflective and critical thinkers. 

As the course concludes, students will curate their Exhibition artworks and complete an accompanying Curatorial Rationale. This rationale articulates the intentions, decisions, and conceptual framework behind the body of work, providing insight into the student’s artistic process and vision.

To complete the course, students will prepare digital submissions of their Comparative Study, Process Portfolio, Exhibition, and Curatorial Rationale for upload to the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBIS). These submissions will be externally assessed to evaluate the student’s artistic growth, technical skill, and ability to communicate ideas through visual art.

This final year challenges students to achieve a high level of artistic and conceptual mastery, preparing them for further studies in the arts or other creative fields.

IB S2 Visual Arts (9810y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite:  

• IB S1 Visual Arts

In the second year of the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Standard Level (SL) Visual Arts course, students are expected to build upon the practical and research work completed during the first year. IB S2 Visual Arts students are encouraged to become increasingly independent, self-motivated, and self-critical while focusing on the development of a cohesive portfolio of six to seven Exhibition artworks. Artworks must visually convey thematic exploration centered around a chosen theme or topic, reflect the student’s artistic voice, and demonstrate mastery of learned skills.

Throughout the year, students continue to refine and expand their eighteen screen Process Portfolio. The portfolio must include documented artist research, experimentation, technical growth, and conceptual exploration. The portfolio demonstrates their creative journey and development as reflective and critical thinkers. 

As the course concludes, students will curate their Exhibition artworks and complete an accompanying Curatorial Rationale. This rationale articulates the intentions, decisions, and conceptual framework behind the body of work, providing insight into the student’s artistic process and vision.

To complete the course, students will prepare digital submissions of their Comparative Study, Process Portfolio, Exhibition, and Curatorial Rationale for upload to the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBIS). These submissions will be externally assessed to evaluate the student’s artistic growth, technical skill, and ability to communicate ideas through visual art.

This final year challenges students to achieve a high level of artistic and conceptual mastery, preparing them for further studies in the arts or other creative fields.

DIGITAL FILM COURSES

Digital Film courses are designed to ensure an enjoyable, progressively challenging, and differentiated art education for JIS students. While One-to-One laptops have infused the digital world into all JIS classrooms, Digital Film classes rely solely on the advanced technology hardware and software designed for creative purposes. Digital SLR cameras are provided for class use as well as off-campus checkout opportunities. Film students are not held responsible for supplying curricular equipment, but they are held accountable for lost or damaged equipment. Classroom iMacs will be provided or the appropriate software will be installed into the Digital Art student’s MacBook Air. It is highly recommended that students wishing to enter the International Baccalaureate (IB) Film program have prior digital film experience working with Digital SLR cameras and film editing software.

Digital Film Production 1 (8193s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

This one-semester course serves as an introduction to the skills and techniques related to creating films. Students are given the opportunity to create original films using school-provided cameras and state-of-the-art non-linear editing software. This is a hands-on course where students experience all phases of film production including brainstorming, storyboarding, planning shooting schedules, filming, editing footage, adding special effects and voice-overs as well as final rendering of the film into multiple display formats.

Digital Film Production 2 (8194s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  

• Digital Film Production 1

Building on the concepts and skills learned in Digital Film Production 1 students will work in teams to produce original films. Advanced post-production techniques will be explored with a focus on audio, script development, lighting, and special effects. Films will focus on a variety of visual storytelling techniques including continuity editing, motif, montage, and others to convey artistic intentions. This course is highly recommended for art students interested in IB Film.

Television and Media Production (81900y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:  

• Digital Film Production 1

• Digital Film Production 2

                or 

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Film Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Television and Media Production will build upon learning completed in Digital Film Production courses and designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in television production while fostering a globally engaged mindset. Students will learn the fundamentals of TV broadcasting, from scripting and storyboarding to filming, editing, and producing live TV segments. This course emphasizes global awareness by integrating international issues into broadcasting projects. It will encourage students to consider how media shapes perspectives on global issues and empower them to create content that inspires social change and connect the school community in one media called “Channel Blue”.

IB H1 Film (9838y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite:

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Film Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Digital Film Production 2

IB H1 Film is the first year of the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Higher Level Film course. This course is ideal for students with a passion interest in film, whether they aspire to pursue film studies at the college level, as a profession. Nevertheless it is highly recommended students have completed Digital Film Production 2 or can provide sufficient evidence of previous skills and experience. 

IB H1 Film is designed to develop students as skilled interpreters and creators of film texts. Through the analysis of films and hands-on film production, students cultivate critical thinking, artistic appreciation, and an understanding of cultural, historical, and global perspectives in cinema. Guided by the IB Higher Level Film curriculum, the course encourages students to explore film concepts, theories, and practices from an array of diverse viewpoints / perspectives. Students will develop the skills necessary to produce a written analysis of a prescribed film and a written film portfolio featuring experimental film reels. This course provides an excellent foundation for advanced study in the second year of the IB HL Film program while fostering a deep appreciation of film as an art form.

IB S1 Film (9836y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite:

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school VA Teacher or VA HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Digital Film Production 2

IB S1 Film is the first year of the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Standard Level Film course. This course is ideal for students who do not intend to further film learning after graduating, but are very enthusiastic about film desire to learn more about expressing creativity through film medium.  Nevertheless it is highly recommended students have completed Digital Film Production 2 or can provide sufficient evidence of previous skills and experience. 

IB S1 Film is designed to develop students as skilled interpreters and creators of film texts. Through the analysis of films and hands-on film production, students cultivate critical thinking, artistic appreciation, and an understanding of cultural, historical, and global perspectives in cinema. Guided by the IB Standard Level Film curriculum, the course encourages students to explore film concepts, theories, and practices from an array of diverse viewpoints / perspectives. Students will develop the skills necessary to produce a written analysis of a prescribed film and a written film portfolio featuring experimental film reels. This course provides an excellent foundation for advanced study in the second year of the IB SL Film program while fostering a deep appreciation of film as an art form.

IB H2 Film (9839y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite:  

• IB H1 Film

IB H2 Film is the second of the two-year International Baccalaureate Higher Level Film course. Students are expected to build upon practical and research work done in the first year. Students will gain an appreciation and understanding of film as a complex art form, make critical evaluations of film productions, demonstrate their knowledge of filmmaking traditions in several countries, develop their abilities to formulate stories and ideas in film terms, and learn the practical and technical skills of production. During this second year of this course, students continue to develop skills to produce a recorded multimedia comparative study of selected films, a written film portfolio with experimental film reels, and a collaborative film project of seven minutes with a written report.

IB S2 Film (9837y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite:  

• IB S1 Film

IB S2 Film is the second of the two-year International Baccalaureate Standard Level Film course. Students are expected to build upon practical and research work done in the first year. Students will gain an appreciation and understanding of film as a complex art form, make critical evaluations of film productions, demonstrate their knowledge of filmmaking traditions in several countries, develop their abilities to formulate stories and ideas in film terms, and learn the practical and technical skills of production. During this second year of this course, students continue to develop skills to produce a written analysis of a prescribed film, a recorded multimedia comparative study of selected films, and a written film portfolio with experimental film reels.

CREATIVE WRITING & PUBLICATION COURSES

The Visual Arts Department offers courses to enhance student creative writing skills and advanced publication understanding.

Creative Writing (1625s)

May be Repeated 

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

This semester-long course invites young writers to explore and develop their unique voice by experimenting with a wide range of prose and poetic styles. Through traditional exercises, modern prompts, and student-inspired ideas, participants will cultivate their writer’s instinct while refining their craft. Daily handwritten exercises encourage creativity and spontaneity, while process revisions based on peer and instructor feedback enhance each writer’s skills and confidence.

Formative tasks build toward meaningful summative assignments, culminating in a self-designed writing project. Students may choose to create a poetry collection, a series of short stories, a blend of both, or even a full-length novel. This course is perfect for students passionate about words, intrigued by the power of creative expression, and eager to tell their stories through writing.

Introduction to Journalism (8344s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

This semester-long course introduces students to the fundamentals of journalistic writing, focusing on four key types of journalistic styles. Students will learn to generate compelling story ideas, develop effective interview questions, and structure articles with clarity and purpose. The course also explores the integration of visual elements, such as supporting images and photographs, using industry-standard software.

A central emphasis is placed on understanding and tailoring content to a specific purpose and audience for each piece. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with foundational skills that prepare them for Advanced Journalism and participation in the high school student magazine, Feedback.

Advanced Journalism (8384y)

May be Repeated 

One year - 1 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: 

• Introduction to Journalism

or

• Interview / Portfolio Review by high school Journalism Teacher or Visual Arts HoD

Highly Recommended:  

• Creative Writing 

Building on the skills developed in Introduction to Journalism, this course invites students to join a dynamic team of reporters, artists, and editors to collaboratively produce Feedback, the high school’s premier student publication. Covering topics from campus events to global issues, exploring popular interests, and presenting opinion-editorials and investigative pieces, Feedback remains a publication by students, of students, and for students. Team members work individually or in pairs, contributing to a rigorous and rewarding process that produces four to five issues per school year.  While the primary audience is the high school community, Feedback is widely enjoyed by the broader JIS community and recognized globally.

As a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association for 35 years, Feedback has earned an impressive 15 Gold Medal certificates, 5 Silver Crown Awards, and a 2025 Crown Award Finalist designation. Notably, JIS is the only international school represented among the 18 publications honored in the High School Magazine category. This course provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in professional-level journalism and publication production.