Fine Arts - Visual

Course Descriptions

Art I

Grade Level Placement: 09, 10, 11, 12

1 Unit/Y     Prerequisite: None     

Credit Type: Fine Arts (FA)

In this beginning art class, students study the elements of design, line, color, shape, and texture through work in different areas of art, such as drawing, painting, graphic design, ceramics, and calligraphy.

Art Applications

Grade Level Placement: 09, 10, 11, 12

1/2 Unit/S     Prerequisite: None     

Credit Type: Fine Arts (FA)

Students in this yearlong class are expected to exhibit creativity and the ability to work as a "team player."  Art Applications concentrates on graphics without a computer.  Projects will include homecoming decorations, illustrating a children’s book, and block printing. Students will work extensively on lettering and fonts and become an expert with an X-Acto knife

Drawing

Grade Level Placement: 09, 10, 11, 12

1/2 Unit (Fall semester)     Prerequisite: None     

Credit Type: Fine Arts (FA)

This semester class focuses extensively on drawing.  Subject matter ranges from still life to figure drawing to portraiture and creative imagery.  Shading will be emphasized.  Mediums used will be pencil, conte crayon, pen and ink, and colored pencil. 

Ceramics

Grade Level Placement: 10, 11, 12

1/2 Unit (Spring semester)     Prerequisite: None, although Drawing is suggested     

Credit Type: Fine Arts (FA)

In this semester course in hand-built pottery, students study three types of building methods (pinch pot, coil pot, and slab method).  A variety of textures and glazes are stressed.  Grades, based on a project critique, are given at the end of 3rd quarter.  Each project will be assessed 4th quarter.  Craftsmanship and construction will be highly emphasized.  

Art Studio

Grade Level Placement: 11, 12

1 Unit/Y    Prerequisite: Art I or Drawing and Ceramics and instructor approval    

Credit Type: Fine Arts (FA)

Students study specialized areas such as graphic design, illustration, painting, and drawing.  Class projects stress drawing and sculpture.   Students must have demonstrated the ability to work responsibly and independently and have a good attendance record.

Advanced Art

Grade Level Placement: 12

1 Unit/Y    Prerequisite: Art I, Studio, Drawing and Ceramics and instructor approval    

Credit Type: Fine Arts (FA)

Students choose an area of specialization for independent work, possibly drawing, ceramics or print making.  Teachers provide specific problems in their chosen field of specialization.  Critique meetings between students and instructor are arranged at a specified time.  Student assessment is based on initiative, creativity, talent, and self-motivation.