Arts Program

Instrumental Music

The music curriculum seeks to broaden students’ understanding of all styles and genres of music. In addition, the program seeks to cultivate higher levels of performance skills, and attempts to nurture positive attitudes towards music and the arts. Students learn that music elements are present in all styles and exist in music of all cultures and historical periods. Please do not hesitate to contact the Department Chair, Michelle Baran, if you have any questions: Michelle_M_Smith@mcpsmd.org.

Art

As students develop skills for creating and evaluating art, they learn that art is another language for expression, communication, and enjoyment. Please do not hesitate to contact the Department Chair, Katie Salke, if you have any questions: Katherine_A_Salke@mcpsmd.org

Photography – Grade 8

The purpose of this 18-week course is to develop basic skills and the appreciation for and understanding of the field of visual-graphic communications. Specific areas students explore include photography, the application of television production, computer graphics, illustrative drafting, and telecommunications.

Computer Art – Grade 7

The purpose of this 18 week course is to develop a basic skill set and understanding of Adobe Photoshop CS4 and Paint.net while learning about the role of computer art in our culture and society. The class also develops a student's understanding and comprehension of compositional techniques, art vocabulary, ways in which to express oneself artistically, and the importance of reflection and critique.

Theatre- Grades 6, 7, 8

The course goals are designed to develop an inter-curricular appeal with English classes, Social Studies program, etc. Also, to expose students to a wide variety of genres; increasing student, faculty, and community involvement in, and parent and booster support for the theatre program; and a greater appreciation for quality theatre by the school and community. Please do not hesitate to contact the Department Chair, Natalie Roots, if you have any questions: Natalie_L_Roots@mcpsmd.org.

Contemporary Communications- Grade 6

Students will utilize Turbo Typing software to learn and improve computer keyboarding skills. Students will be introduced to Newspaper and Television Journalism and use keyboarding skills to create sample news stories.

Contemporary Communications- Grades 7 & 8

Students will utilize Turbo Typing software to refine computer keyboarding skills and improve keyboarding speed and accuracy. Students will explore Web, Newspaper, Radio, Television and Photo Journalism and create realistic news submissions.