visual and performing arts
Program Philosophy
Arts instruction in the Ramsey Public School comprises courses in music, visual arts and theater. In each content area, instruction is strongly rooted in the creation, production, and performance of the art form as well as developing students ability to respond to, and critique, art. Through frequent active participation in the arts, students learn about the elements, principles, and performance practices of the various art forms. A strong emphasis is placed on teaching processes and skills associated with each of the arts rather than on rote-teaching, through which students gain the confidence to become independent artists, musicians, and actors who can solve authentic and meaningful artistic problems.
While students who wish to pursue a career in the arts will be well-prepared to do so, it is the goal that all graduates will have the tools and conceptual understandings to lead meaningful and enriching lives in connection with the arts.
program Transfer Goals
What will a Ramsey graduate be able to DO after completing the K-12 course of study in the Visual and Performing Arts?
Pursue their own artistic endeavors and interests outside of school.
Make informed artistic decisions during the creation, preparation, and performance of artistic works.
Apply artistic knowledge and techniques to the creation and realization of new works.
Analyze the quality of their own works/performances and implement strategies for improvement.
Take risks and learn from mistakes in the creation and performance or artistic endeavors.
Overarching Enduring Understandings
Artists evaluate and refine their work through openness to new ideas, persistence, and the application of appropriate criteria.
Artists follow a process to improve their work
Artists develop excellence through practice and constructive critique, reflecting on, revising, and refining work over time.
Creativity and innovative thinking are essential life skills that can be developed.
People develop ideas and understandings of society, culture, and history through their interactions with and analysis of art.
Artists communicate meaning in different ways.
Overarching Essential Questions
How do we judge the quality of artistic works and performances?
How do artists generate creative works?
How do artists improve the quality of their creative work?
What is the role of experimentation and trial and error in artistic pursuits?
How do artists grow and become accomplished in art forms?