VAPA Courses

Course Title: 3D Art 1 (P)

Course Number: 6001-6002

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: None 

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Art

Course Description:  Three-dimensional Art 1 is an introductory course that explores three- dimensional art forms through lecture, demonstration, audio visual aids, and execution of projects.  3D Art 1 develops a student’s understanding of the terminology, being able to communicate effectively using art vocabulary, and implementing basic art elements and principles that will be taught through a variety of media.  Projects will include studies in art history and cultural civilizations and will encourage exploration and personal growth through the arts through discussions, presentations, and technology or research. Units of study may include sculpture, clay, fiber, paper, mixed media, jewelry, color theory, and printmaking. 

Course Title: 3D Art II (P)

Course Number: 6006-6007

Grade Level: 10–12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: 3D Art I

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Art

Course Description:  Three-dimensional Art 2 is the intermediate level and continuation of 3D Art 1.  The course provides further exploration of these art elements and principles: line, color, value, shape and form, space, texture, balance, unity, contrast, emphasis, movement or rhythm, and pattern.  Emphasis is placed on creative application and presentation.  Projects involve creative thinking and problem solving.  Units of study may include sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, advanced color theory, printmaking, mosaics, stained glass, and weaving, research papers, sketchbook/journal keeping and presentations.

Course Title: 3D Art III (P)

Course Number: 6010-6011

Grade Level: 11 -12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: 3D Art II

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Art

Course Description:  Three-Dimensional Art 3 is a continuation of the skills and media discovered in the previous courses, while enhancing the ability to be creative and solve problems. Exploration may include units of study in sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, weaving, printmaking, sketchbook or journals, computer skills, art careers, portfolio development, school or community art projects, research papers and oral presentations.  Curriculum contracts, which develop and challenge special interests, may be approved.

Course Title: Studio Art 1 (P)

Course Number: 6102-6103

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: None

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Art

Course Description:  Studio Art 1 provides an introduction and exploration of 2 dimensional art forms through lecture, demonstration, audio visual aids and execution of projects.  Understanding the terminology, being able to communicate effectively using design dialog, and implementing basic design principles and elements will be taught through a variety of media.  Projects will include studies in art history and cultural civilizations while encouraging exploration and personal growth through the arts in discussions, presentations, audio visual or research papers.  Units of study include painting and drawing techniques, color theory, graphics, perspective, creative thinking and problem solving. Students will work independently and in cooperative situations.  Students will demonstrate respect for their projects, classroom tools and equipment, as well as other people's projects.

Course Title: Studio Art II (P)

Course Number: 6106-6107

Grade Level: 10-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year /10 credits

Prerequisites: Studio Art I

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Art

Course Description:  Studio Art II is the Intermediate level and continuation of Studio Art 1.  Further exploration of the design elements and principles: line, color, value, shape and form, space, texture, balance, unity, contrast, emphasis, movement or rhythm, and pattern.  Emphasis will be placed on creative application and presentation.  Projects are usually larger and require problem solving and decision making ability.  Units of study will include painting and drawing, color theory, graphic design, careers in art, portfolio development, computer skills, printmaking and school based projects.  Students will also complete projects in art history, cultural research, along with critiques of their own art works and works of others.  Papers and oral presentations in groups and individually are also required.

Course Title: Studio Art III (P)

Course Number: 6110-6111

Grade Level: 11-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Studio Art II

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Art

Course Description:  Advanced level students will explore in-depth 2D media in Studio Art III.  Students will do in-depth exploration of painting and drawing techniques, creative thinking skills, technology, portfolio development, art history, printmaking, and color interaction.   Media may be one already explored in previous classes or entirely new.  Each project’s execution will be presented and evaluated at an advanced level. Students will be effective goal setters and demonstrate personal responsibility.  Sketchbook journals or calendar notebooks will be required to support student's work. Student and teacher may develop a curriculum contract which develops and challenges the student's special interests with approval of teacher, parent and student.

Course Title: Studio Art IV (P)

Course Number: 6114-6115

Grade Level: 12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Studio Art III

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Art

Course Description:  Advanced level Students will explore in-depth 2D media.  Students will do in-depth exploration of painting and drawing skills and techniques, portfolio development, creative thinking, computer graphic skills, art history research, school-wide art projects and advanced printing techniques.  Media may be one already explored in previous classes or entirely new.  Students will be effective goal setters and demonstrate personal responsibility.  Sketchbook journals or calendar notebooks will be required to support student’s work.  Student and teacher may develop a curriculum contract that develops and challenges the student’s special interests with the approval of teacher, parent and student.

Course Title: Dual Enrollment COS Film Appreciation

Course Number: 8340-8341

Grade Level: 11–12

Elective/Required: Elective 

Length/Credits: Year/10 Credits 

Prerequisites: Successful completion of English I and II

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Elective Interdisciplinary

Course Description: Film Studies will encompass a comprehensive study of the art of filmmaking and the film industry in a cultural/historical context. Students will learn how film serves as a medium for storytelling and analyze the cultural value and impact of film in society. The course structure is based on the chronological history of the motion picture industry, studying prolific filmmakers and their landmark films from each era. Students will understand how certain filmmakers and their films impacted the culture at-large and the industry itself. Students will develop a critical perspective when viewing films through discussion, debate, speeches, presentations, and academic readings and essay writing. Students will further analyze the various aspects of the filmmaking process, from pre-production through post-production.

Course Title: International Film Students (Not Offered 2025-2026)

Course Number: 1216-1217

Grade Level: 11–12

Elective/Required: Elective 

Length/Credits: Year/10 Credits 

Prerequisites: Successful completion of English I and II

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “G” Elective Interdisciplinary (PENDING)

Course Description: International Film Studies will provide a comprehensive study of the art of filmmaking and the film industry in a global/multicultural and multilingual context. Students will learn how film serves as a medium for storytelling and analyze the cultural value and impact of film in a variety of countries around the world. The course provides an overview of the global film industry, studying prolific filmmakers and their landmark films from nations such as France, Italy, Sweden, Japan, Mexico, Germany, Korea, and more. Students will understand how the film industry in each country is shaped by its unique national customs, beliefs, and culture while at the same time encapsulating and presenting its worldview to a global audience. Students will develop a critical perspective when viewing films through discussion, debate, speeches, presentations, and academic readings and essay writing. Students will further analyze the various aspects of the filmmaking process, from pre-production through post-production.  Films will be experienced in English dubbed versions as well as in their original languages with English subtitles. 

Course Title: Yearbook

Course Number: 6302-6303

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor

Course Description:  The Yearbook class centers on the production of the school yearbook. Students meet to plan the book's theme and content, determine what the book will cost and plan the financial campaign. They then sell the books and advertising to help finance its production. The staff develops a production schedule and then works to maintain that production schedule by developing and printing pictures, writing stories and headlines and designing layouts under the deadline schedule. Students use the darkroom, PageMaker and Photoshop software programs in the production process.

Course Title: Graphic Arts

Course Number: 8984-8985

Grade Level: 10-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 Credits

Prerequisites: Approval of teacher

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “G” Elective

Course Description:

Graphic  Arts  is  a  comprehensive one year,  entry level course centering on graphic design   and   computer   graphics   for   the   purpose   of   producing   printed   material. Traditional hand rendered design techniques  are  covered,  but  the  focus  of the  course is the use of computers. The software packages used include Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe PhotoShop, and are current for industry standards.

Course Title: Drama I (P)

Course Number: 6202-6203

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: None

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This course is an introduction to the dramatic arts. This is an activity-centered course so during the year the following interactive areas will be studied: warm-up exercises (both physical and vocal), improvisation, pantomime and movement, oral interpretation, and acting techniques. This is also an academic course where during the year we will study acting and technical theatre terminology, theatre history, the structure of the play, and play criticism.

Course Title:  Drama 2 (P)

Course Number: 6206-6207

Grade Level: 10-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Drama 1

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  The Drama 2 course continues where the introductory drama leaves off.  Instruction continues to focus on acting techniques voice and articulation, theatre history from the Renaissance through the 18th century, character analysis and play production.  The course provides opportunities for an in-depth study of William Shakespeare and his plays. Increasingly challenging skits and longer plays are performed in class.  Performances required increased skill in pacing, fluency, timing, blocking, movement, line delivery and other aspects in an overall performance.  Instruction is an activity-centered and involves participation outside of class.

Course Title: Drama 3 (P)

Course Number: 6210-6211

Grade Level: 11-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Drama 2

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This course emphasizes the production of plays (the fall and spring plays which are open to all students to audition).  Students will know the jobs of all members of a production company theoretically as well as from practical experience.  Students will also adapt a published short story or write an original one-act play for presentation.  Students will also continue to survey theatre history.  It is an activity-centered course and will require participation outside of class.

Course Title: Stage Design and Technology (Stagecraft) (P)

Course Number: 9810-9811

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Drama 1 and/or grade 11,12 or instructor approval.

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  Stage Design and Technology introduces the techniques and processes involved in stage prop construction, lighting, and the setup and operation of sound systems. The program develops basic construction techniques for stage property and scenery. Students will participate in stage crew work, which includes the rigging and movement of sets, scenery, and lighting equipment, and the management and distribution of stage properties. Students will also be taught to manage the complex support tasks that are involved in a performance. This course will train students in the use and management of the various elements of technical production during a dance, music, or theatrical performance. Students will explore apprenticeship, higher education options, and career opportunities in stage technology.

Course Title: Color Guard

Course Number: 6422-6423

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Audition/Permission by instructor

Course Description:  This course is designed to expose the student to styles of dance and flag techniques utilized in the modern marching band and winter guard. Skills and concepts will include: its terminology and the physical/mental attitude required to perform appropriately.

Course Title: Intermediate Band (P) / Advanced Band (P)

Course Number: 6402-6403 (Int), 6406-6407 (Adv), 6402PER-6403PER (Int Percussion), 6406PER-6407PER (Adv Percussion)

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Audition/Permission by instructor/Previous playing experience recommended

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This course is designed to expose the student to the various styles of band literature and marching styles. Skills and concepts developed through playing/marching this wide range of musical/physical ideas will include its terminology, advanced instrumental techniques, performance practices and styles, form as it relates to various idioms of selected instrumental music, and the physical/mental attitude required to perform this music appropriately.

Course Title: Jazz Band (P)

Course Number: 6414-6415

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Audition/Permission by instructor

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This course is designed to expose the student to the 20th century American music called jazz. Skills and concepts through playing/marching this wide range of musical/physical ideas will include its terminology, advanced instrumental techniques, improvisation, performance practices and styles, form as it relates to various idioms of selected instrumental music, and the physical/mental attitude required to perform this music appropriately.

Course Title: Orchestra (P) / Advanced Orchestra (P)

Course Number: 6452-6453, 6456-6457 (Adv)

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Audition/Permission by instructor.

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This course uses a wide range of orchestral music to develop artistic awareness and technical performance skills.  Skills and concepts developed through playing this wide range of musical ideas will include terminology, advanced instrumental techniques, performance practices and styles, form as it relates to various idioms of selected instrumental music and the attitude required to perform this music appropriately.  Performances are expected

Course Title: Beginning Soprano/Alto Chorus (P)

Course Number: 6502-6503

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: None

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  Beginning Soprano/Alto Chorus is open by audition to beginning female singers grades 9-12. This is a yearlong course in beginning vocal techniques, music theory, sight reading, and choral literature for the specialized women's ensemble. This group is a performing ensemble, with requiring participation in co-curricular concerts and festivals.

Course Title: Advanced Soprano/Alto Chorus (P)

Course Number:  6520-6521

Grade Level: 10-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Enrollment is by audition and with permission of instructor

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This is a year-long course in advanced vocal techniques, music theory, sight-reading, and choral literature. Course work includes in-depth study of advanced specialized literature composed for the advanced women’s chamber ensemble (SSAA). Besides classical literature, other idioms such as barbershop and jazz will be studied. This vocal group is an active participant in concerts, school assemblies, festivals, and other tours. This highly select ensemble requires leadership and musical experience. Co-curricular performances are part of the grade and are required.

Course Title: Bass Clef Chorus (P)

Course Number: 6506-6507

Grade Level: 9-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites:  None

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  Bass Clef Chorus is open to all students whose natural vocal range is primarily concentrated in the so-called “bass register,” or from C to middle C (and/or 4th degree higher F), as well as consent of the director (via interview/audition).

Course Title: Concert Choir (P)

Course Number:

Grade Level: 10-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Enrollment is by audition and with permission of instructor

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  Concert Choir is a year-long course in advanced vocal techniques, music theory, sight reading, and choral literature. Coursework focuses on advanced specialized literature composed for the advanced mixed choir (SATB). The Concert Choir is a performing ensemble and an active participant in concerts, school assemblies, festivals, and tours. This highly select ensemble requires leadership and musical excellence. Co-curricular performances are required.

Course Title: Vocal Ensemble (P)

Course Number: 6518-6519

Grade Level: 11-12

Elective/Required: Elective

Length/Credits: Year/10 credits

Prerequisites: Enrollment is by audition and with permission of instructor 

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This is a yearlong course in advanced vocal techniques, music theory, sight-reading, and choral literature. Coursework includes in-depth study of advanced specialized literature composed for the advanced Chamber Ensemble (SATB). This vocal group is an active participant in concerts, school assemblies, festivals, and tours.  This highly select ensemble requires leadership and musical excellence. Co-curricular performances are required.

Course Title:  Introduction to Dance (P)

Course Number: 6601-6602

Grade Level:  10–12

Elective/Required:  Elective / meets PE requirement for 10th grade

Length/Credits:  Year/10 credits

Prerequisites:  Completion of Physical Education 1 (Core PE) or Instructor Approval

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  Introduction to Dance develops correct beginning terminology and technical execution in tap, jazz modern and ballet. The course develops creative expression through choreography and performance. An appreciation for dance as an art form is promoted through the study of the artistic contributions and the influence of culture on dance. Through the study of stage and screen productions, participants develop an aesthetic of dance through analysis and critical assessment of various works. Career opportunities available to dancers, including those performers are included as a part of the course content.

Course Title: Hip-Hop (P)

Course Number: 6616-6617

Grade Level:  10–12

Elective/Required:  Elective / meets PE requirement for 10th grade

Length/Credits:  Year/10 credits

Prerequisites:  Completion of Physical Education 1 (Core PE) or Instructor Approval

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  Hip Hop will be the primary dance focus in this class. In addition, this course focuses on learning correct terminology and technical execution in jazz. Through choreography and performance, creative expression and an appreciation for dance as an art form will be explored. A study of historical contributions and the influence of culture on dance will be included. Opportunities for aesthetic valuing of dance through analysis and the critical assessment of various works, including stage and screen productions, will be explored. Career opportunities available to dancers, including those as performers and/or educators, will be noted.

Course Title:  Intermediate Dance (P)

Course Number: 6606-6607

Grade Level:  9–12

Elective/Required:  Elective / meets PE requirement for 10th grade 

Length/Credits:  Year/10 credits

Prerequisites:  “C” or better in Introduction to Dance or audition.  9th graders must be concurrently enrolled in Core PE.

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  Instruction in Intermediate Dance emphasizes and extends understanding of intermediate dance terminology and technical execution in tap, jazz, modern, and ballet. The course develops creative expression through choreography and performance. An appreciation for dance as an art form is promoted through the study of the artistic contributions and the influence of culture on dance. Through the study of stage and screen productions, participants develop an aesthetic, of dance through analysis and critical assessment of various works. Career opportunities available to dancers, including those performers and/or educators are included as a part of course content.

Course Title:  Advanced Dance (P)

Course Number: 6608-6609

Grade Level:  9-12

Elective/Required:  Elective / meets PE requirement for 10th grade

Length/Credits:  Year/10 credits

Prerequisites:  Enrollment in this class is by audition only.  Audition may include:  Performance of advanced-level technique, choreography and performance of self-choreography, and personal interview.  9th graders must be concurrently enrolled in Core PE.

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description: This course focuses on learning correct advanced terminology and technical execution in modern, tap, jazz, and ballet. Through choreography and performance, creative expression and an appreciation of dance as an art form will be explored in addition to the study of historical contributions and the influence of culture on dance. Opportunities for aesthetic valuing of dance through analysis and critical assessment of various works, including stage and screen productions, will be explored. Various career opportunities available to dancers, including those as performers and/or educators will be noted.

Course Title:  Dance Performance (P)

Course Number: 6611-6612

Grade Level:  9-12

Elective/Required:  Elective / meets PE requirement for 10th grade

Length/Credits:  Year/10 credits

Prerequisites:  Enrollment in this class is by audition only.  Audition may include:  Performance of advanced-level technique, choreography and performance of self-choreography, and personal interview.

Meets UC/CSU A-G category: “F” Visual & Performing Arts

Course Description:  This course focuses on learning and using advanced terminology and technical execution in modern dance, tap, jazz, and ballet. Through choreography and performance, creative expression and an appreciation of dance as an art form will be explored. In addition, the course of study includes the historical contributions and influence of culture on dance and opportunities for aesthetic valuing of dance through analysis and critical assessment of various works, including stage and screen productions. Career opportunities available to dancers, including those as performers and/or educators, will be noted.