New Course Offerings for 2021-2022

AP Studio Art

Course #: Grades: 11,12 Credits: 1 Length: Year Expectation Level: 5

Prerequisite: Three art classes, including one or more intermediate-level class (Painting I, Advanced Drawing, Photo II, etc.), and permission from instructor

AP Studio Art is a rigorous, college-level course of study for students who plan to continue their art education beyond high school and wish to develop mastery in the concept, composition, and execution of their artwork. Over the course of a year, students will create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry in art and design through the use of materials, processes, and ideas. Homework involves not only continuing work on the required sections of the portfolio but also keeping a sketchbook for weekly drawings and research. Portfolios include works of art and design, process documentation, and written information about the work presented.

Expectations: This course requires a significant amount of work outside of the classroom. Students are expected to be self-motivated and serious, with strong technical and analytical skills. Regular and extensive participation in class discussion and group critiques is critical. In May, students will submit their portfolios to the AP College Board for evaluation.

Music for Life

Course #: Grades: 9-12 Credits: .5 Length: Semester Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: No previous experience required; not performance-based

Music for Life is a course open to all students.The purpose of this class is to increase students' musical awareness and give them the tools to actively listen to, discuss, and critique various styles of music. Additionally, the course will focus heavily on contemporary facets of the music business. Students can expect to explore modern recording techniques, music production, and careers in music. Initially, students will discover the basic elements of music: melody, rhythm, harmony, form, texture, tempo, and dynamics. By the end of the course, students will turn their attention to the writing and production of their own music.

Music Theory II

Course #: Grades: 9-12 Credits: .5 Length: Semester Expectation Level: 4

Prerequisite: None, although it is suggested that students have proficiency on an instrument or voice

The Music Theory course is a continuation of Music Theory I. In this class, students can expect to build upon their knowledge of scales, key signatures, intervals, triads, cadences, form, part-writing and score analysis. Additionally, aural dictation and ear training become a larger focus in Music Theory II. Individual creativity is regularly encouraged through student composition. This course is highly recommended for students in a musical ensemble, and is generally considered a prerequisite for AP Music Theory.

* Music Theory I / II and AP Music Theory are offered on an alternating yearly basis.