Tier 1:

FOUNDATION ART 

Grades 9-12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 - 860

In this course, students will learn how to think like an artist by exploring the different stages of the artmaking process.  Students will engage with a variety of 2D and 3D media and make decisions about media and techniques in order to express and communicate through their own artwork.  Students will investigate the decisions artists make when creating art and also reflect on the decisions they make while they are engaged in the artmaking process.  Foundation Art is the introductory course in the Visual Art Department and is the required starting point for students as they move through visual arts courses. 

Upon completion of this course, students may elect to take Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking.

Tier 2:

PRINTMAKING 

Grades 10-12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 - 861

In this course, students will learn the varied methods and techniques of printmaking by exploring the production of multiple prints from a single design or image. Emphasis is on design, technique and the creative use of materials related to the printmaking processes. Students will develop a portfolio of prints and art works based on their original ideas. Some of the methods are: Lino cuts, Etching, Silkscreening, Alternative photography, Bookmaking, and digital/traditional printmaking methods.

Upon completion of this course, students may elect to take Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Art Studio.

Guideline for election: Foundation Art.

SCULPTURE     

Grades 9-12,  2.5 Credit,  Level 1 - 866

In this course students are introduced to the fundamental skills, techniques, and production of three-dimensional art forms. Using problem solving, students will create both functional and sculptural works in a variety of media. Students will develop knowledge and understanding of three-dimensional art forms through study of sculptural art history and apply this understanding to their own work. Students will be assessed through classwork, projects, sketchbooks, and studio practice.  Some of the materials used may include clay, wood, metal, cloth, paper, and plaster. 

Upon completion of this course, students may elect to take Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Art Studio.

Guideline for election: Foundation Art. 

PAINTING  

Grades 10-12 (20 max),  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 - 868

In this course, students will expand their experience with the artmaking process and engage with a variety of painting media and techniques as they investigate what is painting.  Students will make informed decisions regarding painting media and techniques in order to express and communicate through their own original artwork.  Students will continue their investigation of artist decision-making, considering the decisions made by themselves and other artists.  

Upon completion of this course, students may elect to take Drawing, Sculpture, Printmaking, Art Studio.

Guideline for election: Foundation Art.

DRAWING

Grades 10-12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 - 869

In this course, students will expand their experience with the artmaking process and engage with a variety of drawing media and techniques as they investigate what is drawing.  Students will make informed decisions regarding drawing media and techniques in order to express and communicate through their own original artwork.  Students will continue their investigation of artist decision-making, considering the decisions made by themselves and other artists.  

Upon completion of this course, students may elect to take Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, Art Studio.

Guideline for election: Foundation Art.

Tier 3:

ART STUDIO

Grades 10-12,  2.5 or 5 Credits,  Semester – Honors - 874H, Level 1-874,  (2.5 credits),  Full Year – Honors - 875H, Level 1-875 (5 credits)

In this course students will develop a portfolio of meaningful and creative artwork based on their individual skills and interest using a variety of art mediums they feel best suits their concept. Techniques, concepts and individual artistic voice are of paramount importance in this class. Projects are student driven and designed to explore the many ways artists develop and refine ideas and concepts. In addition students will explore a variety of mediums they may be unfamiliar with including; collage, graphic design, photography, sculpture, drawing and painting. Students will also research artists and art movements to help them deepen their understanding of art. Students will be assessed through projects, presentations, creativity, and exhibition.

Guideline for election: Successful completion of Foundation Art and a Tier 2 course, with recommendation of teacher.

AP 2-D ART & DESIGN (ADVANCED PLACEMENT)

Grades 11-12, 5 Credits, AP - 876

AP 2-D Art and Design courses are designed for students with a professional or academic interest in two-dimensional art. These courses focus on a variety of concepts and approaches in drawing and 2-D design, enabling students to demonstrate a range of abilities and versatility with media, technique, problem solving, and scope. Such conceptual variety can be demonstrated through the use of one or several media.  Students refine their skills and create artistic works to submit via a portfolio to the College Board for evaluation.

Guideline for election: Successful completion of Foundation Art and a Tier 2 course, with recommendation of teacher and submission of portfolio.

MUSIC

The Music Department offers courses designed for both beginner and advanced musicians. A student should read each course description to determine the appropriate level for his/her current musical background. If a student has any further questions about which classes to take, he/she should see a teacher from the department.

FULL-YEAR COURSES

CONCERT BAND 

Grades 9 – 12,  5 Credits,  Level 1 – 891 

The high school Concert Band is a co-curricular full-year course open to students who have previously, or are currently, studying a band instrument (e.g., Woodwind, Brass, or Percussion). With permission of the instructor, select string instrumentalists (guitar, violin, cello, bass, etc.) are welcome.  Students will study music of a variety of styles and time periods in preparation for concert performance. The course includes the development of listening skills, tone production, elements of meter and rhythm and performing as part of a large instrumental ensemble. The Concert Band will perform in school concerts, extra-curricular music festivals and competitions, and community events throughout the year. Additional Concert Band rehearsals may be added on select weeknights depending on the program. Students are expected to attend all concerts and performances as part of the grading requirements. Students are required to attend a limited number of rehearsals and specific performances after school. A calendar for the year is provided to each student at the beginning of the course. It is encouraged that students enroll in private instrumental lessons, audition for the Southeast District Festival, and perform at the scheduled chamber ensemble concerts as noted in the syllabus.  This course may be repeated for credit.

Guideline for election:  Prior instrumental background or permission of instructor.

CONCERT BAND/CONCERT CHOIR   

Grades 9 – 12,  5 Credits,  Level 1 – 893, Honors - 893H

Concert Band/Concert Choir allows students to take part in both ensembles throughout the school year. The two ensembles meet during the same period of the day, and students go to each class on an alternating schedule as determined by the instructor(s). Students are expected to keep up with all expectations of both ensembles including individual practice, extra rehearsals, and concerts. There are extracurricular concerts and rehearsals that students are expected to attend.

Guideline for election (Level 1): Prior instrumental background or permission of both instructors.

Guideline for election (Honors): Appointment from directors after selecting Concert Choir Level 1 or Concert Band Level 1.  This section is reserved for ensemble section leaders.

CONCERT CHOIR 

Grades 9 – 12,  5 Credits,  Level 1 – 896

Concert Choir is a co-curricular full-year performing ensemble that sings at concerts, competitions, and community events throughout the school year. No prior singing experience is necessary. Students will study music of a variety of styles and time periods in preparation for their concert performances. The course includes the development of singing skills, music literacy, and singing with others. There are extracurricular concerts and rehearsals that students are expected to attend. This course may be repeated for credit.

AP MUSIC THEORY (ADVANCED PLACEMENT) 

Grades 11–12,  5 Credits,  AP – 892

This course covers the foundations of musical theory and is designed for the serious music student. Students will learn about the elements that make up melody, harmony, rhythm, and form. A variety of styles and periods will be discussed.  Students are required to take the AP Music exam in May.

Guideline for election:  85 or better in Music Theory I or recommendation of teacher.

SEMESTER COURSES

EVOLUTION OF MODERN MUSIC 

Grades 9-12, 2.5 Credits, 884

From hip-hop and rap, to country, to jazz, and even world music, this course will identify and discuss the elements of many different genres throughout history and how they are connected. Other concepts will include addressing the racial and societal impact of music, how technology changed the music industry, and more.  The course features many hands-on activities including hand drumming, instrument making, and songwriting.

This course is unleveled and does not count towards Rank/GPA

MUSIC TECHNOLOGY 

Grades 9–12,  2.5 Credits,  885

The purpose of this course is to explore technology resources used to create, evaluate, arrange, and perform music. Students will learn about sound production, recording, broadcasting, composing and arranging, live audio reinforcement, editing, mixing and mastering, as well as foundational music theory and piano skills. Topics will also include the legalities of digital music and copyright as well as the effects of sound on the anatomy of the ear. Instruction will be a combination of hands-on exploration and creating as well as guided individual and group projects.

This course is unleveled and does not count towards Rank/GPA

MUSIC THEORY I 

Grades 9-12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 – 888

Music Theory I will explore methods of composing music through the use of basic music notation and vocabulary. The course will begin with identifying notes, intervals, key signatures, scales, chords, keys and rhythms, then move on to basic chord progressions and songwriting. Previous experience in a music class is recommended, but not required.

MUSIC COMPOSITION 

Grades 9–12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 - 889

This elective course is an extension of Music Theory and Music Technology and expands upon the techniques of writing and harmonizing melodies in a variety of musical forms. Students will compose using professional digital software allowing full exploration of sound and texture. Students will produce their compositions using a variety of recording techniques.

Guideline for election:  Successful completion of Music Technology or Music Theory or Permission of Instructor

PIANO I 

Grades 9 – 12,  2.5 Credits,  898

Piano class is designed for the beginner to intermediate student. Students work individually at their own pace with teacher supervision and instruction. Keyboards with headphones are provided. Topics covered include music reading skills, correct fingering and technique, and general musicality.

Enrollment in this course is open to any student.

This course is unleveled and does not count towards Rank/GPA

PIANO II 

Grades 9–12,  2.5 Credits 2nd Semester,  899

Piano II is open to any student successfully completing Piano I. The class allows students to work on music that challenges the student in technique and musicality.

Guideline for election:  Piano I or permission of instructor.

This course is unleveled and does not count towards Rank/GPA

Practical Arts Courses

INTRODUCTION TO VIDEO 

Grades 9–12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 – 180

This course introduces the student to the basics of television production including digital cameras, lighting, audio, use of the remote controlled Tri-Caster system, and editing with Final Cut Pro X on Apple Mac Pro computers. Each student will participate behind the scenes as well as in front of the camera in a variety of situations. The course will emphasize various projects which develop skills as on-camera hosts and guests, floor managers, producers, directors, and editors. Throughout the course, students will create and present their own productions, and contribute to the production of the school’s morning show and other digital content. Enrollment limited to 12 students.

ADVANCED VIDEO PRODUCTION

Grades 9–12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 – 181

This course continues the development of television production skills at a higher level of technical knowledge. Students will use the digital cameras, remote-controlled Tri-Caster system, Final Cut Pro X on the Apple Mac Pro computers, and will produce several individual and group projects. They will also serve as the crew to write and create the school’s morning show, as well as taping various school activities that may occur outside of class time.

Guideline for election:  Successful completion of Introduction to Video.

THEATER I 

Grades 9–12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1-190

This course introduces the student to the theater, including both acting and technical skills. It includes a basic vocabulary of theatrical terminology, and acting techniques learned through exercises and improvisations, movement, character and scene analysis, and performance skills. Students will also learn stagecraft terminology as well as introductory set design, lighting, stage makeup, production, and direction. Students will participate actively in class, attend theatrical performances, and plan and perform their own scenes or monologues.

Texts may include: Acting is Believing, The Art of Theatrical Make-up for Stage and Screen, Basic Drama Projects,  Basic Stage Lighting, Light on the Subject, Stagecraft for Non-Professionals, various scene and monologue books, and various play scripts.

THEATER II

Grades 9–12,  2.5 Credits,  Level 1 – 191

This course continues the study of skills for acting and technical theater. Students will expand their knowledge of theatrical and stagecraft terminology as well as their skills in acting, improvisation, set design, lighting, stage makeup, production and direction. Student will be expected to attend theatrical performances and actively participate in all projects.

Texts may include: Acting is Believing, The Art of Theatrical Make-up for Stage and Screen, Basic Drama Projects, Basic Stage Lighting, Light On the Subject, and Stagecraft for Non- Professionals, various scene and monologue books, and various play scripts.