Course Description
This class is 1 semester, and can be repeated for credit.
This course focuses on the study of observational and technical drawing. A variety of drawing media and techniques will be explored. Art history and art criticism is also emphasized. This course is a prerequisite for Advanced Art Studio.
Begin with the basics. Everything starts with drawing. From simple sketches to intricate designs, our drawing course meticulously guides students through the foundations, teaching them to bring their ideas to life on paper. This course is not just about technique, but also about observation, interpretation, and storytelling.
Students in this class will engage in the following learning activities:
Daily 5 minute sketchbook drawings, and 15 minutes of improvement time weekly/biweekly
Drawing from reference imagery (focus on observational skills)
Observational technical drawing (perspective, portraits, etc.)
Hand-eye coordination practice (contour line drawing)
Thinking and planning out concepts behind an artwork
Learning about composition best practices
Learning formal elements & principles of art & design
Create a digital portfolio for artworks and reflections
Duration: 1 semester (0.5 credits / completion)
Can be repeated for credit
Class Fee: $35
Prerequisites: None
This course focuses on the study of observational and technical drawing. A variety of drawing media and techniques will be explored. Art history and art criticism is also emphasized. Course may be repeated for credit during which advanced techniques through a variety of materials will hone students’ skills in drawing. This course will allow opportunities for personal expression in art-making. Art history and art criticism will continue to be emphasized. This course is a prerequisite for Advanced Art Studio.
Sketchbook/paper
Chromebooks
Art supplies (drawing & painting materials, etc.)
Note: Some specific supplies may be taken home by students at the end of the semester.
1 paper folder with 3 ring clips (provided; students must provide replacements if lost)
#2 Pencil and eraser for writing in class (drawing pencils are provided)
A pair of headphones (for use with demo videos on Chromebooks during class)
Tissues for the classroom (Points in ProgressBook awarded for contribution)
Hand sanitizer for the classroom (Points in ProgressBook awarded for contribution)
Abide by all WMHS Student Handbook rules.
Warrior PRIDE related rules in class:
Be Prepared: Be on time, bring necessary materials, submit assignments on time. If working at home, set up a distraction free environment to complete assignments.
Be Respectful: Respect property/ideas of others. No profanity and offensive language in person or online. Show respect to the classroom and supplies. No open food or drink.
Be Independent: Show initiative, approach the teacher when facing difficulties, make up for missed classes.
Be Diligent: Complete assignments fully and strive for understanding.
Be Engaged: Be an active participant, aim for improvement, seek clarification when needed.
Cell Phone Use Policy:
Phones should be kept in the phone holders in the classroom, or kept zipped up in a backpack and on silent mode.
No distractions in the classroom: calls, texts, airpods, apple watches.
Phones and backpacks must stay in the classroom when leaving for the bathroom, office, etc.
Phone usage privileges may be provided at the teacher’s discretion. They are not a right.
Class Numbers:
Phones, seats, and chromebooks have color-coded numbers.
Daily studio work tasks are linked to these numbers for studio maintenance points.
Attendance:
Being on time is important. (3 Tardies = 45min detention, 6 Tardies = 2hr detention)
It is easy to fall behind in a studio art class when you are not present. Excused absences get 1 day per day missed to complete and turn in makeup work.
Refer to the student handbook for excusable absences and truancy policy.
Bathroom Breaks & Passes: Secure permission, sign out/in using Chromebook, take appropriate passes (bathroom, office, or classroom pass).
Grading Policy: Based on WMHS scale.
Projects: 60%
Planning / Practice: 15%
Quizzes: 10%
Critique / Writing: 10%
Effort / Participation: 5%
Formative Assessment: 0%
Late Work: Late work may miss up to 10% a day. Coordinate makeup work after excused absences.
Cheating / Academic Dishonesty: Zero tolerance. Results in zero credits and potential disciplinary actions. Cheating includes copying work from peers or the use of AI and claiming it as your own.
Classroom Maintenance: Students are responsible for cleaning, restocking, and maintaining respect for the space and materials. The care of the group studio environment also includes grade points.
Using Chromebooks: Regularly check Google Classroom and emails. Handle devices with care.
Low Academic Achievement: Remediation processes, including "academic detentions", will be implemented for grades below F. E/I or study hall periods may be used to make up missed work. After school time may also be arranged if a student continues to fail the course.
Field Trips: Proper behavior is mandatory. Parental permission required. Trips will use school vehicles. If a field trip is planned, information will be sent home to parents.
Syllabus Changes: The teacher may make alterations, with notifications given in class and updated versions available on Google Classroom.