Art I

This course strives to teach the awareness that all great works of art are part of a creative continuum. Students will learn the basic foundations of art elements and design principles and apply that knowledge to create artistic works of art. Students will learn to look at and evaluate art. This course will also briefly cover various art periods from pre-historic through contemporary art.

Art II

This course strives to teach awareness that all great works of art are part of a creative continuum. Students will learn to appreciate, observe and evaluate art. Students will review the basic foundations of art elements and design principles and then apply that knowledge to create artistic works of art through developing their own expression. The various art periods from pre-historic through contemporary art and the learning styles of well-known artist will be covered. The purpose of this class is to continue the discovery and understanding of basic art skills developed in Art 1. An awareness of the student’s artistic growth and the importance of culture and environment with respect to art lessons will be stressed. The art curriculum is based on the textbook, Understanding Art, which meets the National Visual Art Standards. The curriculum is focused on art as a core curriculum subject, one that is built on their everyday experiences and enriches their learning in all areas.

Art III

This is an upper-level course designed for students who wishes to further develop skills and techniques that were introduced in previous drawing and painting courses. This is a desirable course for any student wishing to develop a portfolio for college. Students will be encouraged to expand their creative ideas as well as their technical potential. This course will not only approach drawing and painting, but will include computer graphics and photography as well. Art history, design skills, criticism and theory are explored more extensively. Passing this course is a prerequisite for Advanced Placement Art 2-D Design. The art curriculum is based on the textbook The Visual Experience, 2nd Edition which meets the National Visual Art Standards. The curriculum is based on art production, art history, art criticism and aesthetics and interdisciplinary connections.

AP 2D Art and Design

This course enables students to develop mastery in concept, composition, and execution of 2-D design. Each student will learn a variety of concepts and approaches so that the student is able to demonstrate a range of abilities and versatility with technique, problem-solving, study of the elements, and principles of art. This class emphasizes making art as an ongoing process involving informed and critical decision-making; analysis and discussion of their own artworks and those of their peers; individual student critiques; development of a coherent plan of action or investigation; and, understanding artistic integrity. The course will focus on the completion of Sustained Investigation and Selected Works, the two aspects required for the development of the portfolio. Students will prepare their portfolios through organized AP instruction and must submit them for evaluation at the end of the course. An upper-level art class such as Art II or Art III is also a prerequisite for this course.

Photography

This is an introductory course for students interested in photography and sharpening their picture taking skills. Topics include the effects of focus, clarity, lighting, angles, and more.

Drama I

This course is a year-long survey of techniques and attributes used in performing arts. This course will cover the basics of performing on a stage as well as a history and appreciation of theater. Throughout the year, students will be expected to use their voice, their expressions, and their actions to tell stories.

Drama II

This course is a year-long deep dive into the creation and execution of what it takes to open a show from the perspective of the actor, playwright, and director. Throughout the year, students will work collaboratively to produce two dramatic productions, one published One-Act and one of their own design. To reach this goal, students will be expected to read and analyze published scripts, while also learning to write their own: starting with monologues and building up to a full One-Act. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to attend live shows during the course of the year.

Music I

This is a UC-approved high school course designed to meet the California state standard for Music in Visual and Performing Arts. It is a basic survey course covering the fundamental elements of music (sound, harmony, melody, rhythm, form, etc.), a variety of musical styles, composers, and historical periods. It also provides students with hands-on experience of various musical instruments to develop a greater depth of musical artistry. Previous musical experience is not a prerequisite for this class.

Music II Instrumental

This course provides students with hands-on experience on woodwind instruments to develop a greater depth of musical artistry. This class is a more advanced course in which students are expected to be proficient on their instrument. Students also learn the fundamental elements of music (rhythm, melody, harmony, timbre, and form), a variety of musical styles, composers, and historical periods.

Music II Chorale

This course is designed to meet the California state standard for Music in Visual and Performing Arts. This class is a performing ensemble that will learn basic musicianship through choral music. It will cover the fundamental elements of music (rhythm, melody, harmony, timbre, and form) a variety of musical styles, composers, and historical periods. It also provides students with hands-on experience using Solfeggio and proper techniques in singing to develop a greater depth of musical artistry.

Music III

This course is the advanced choral ensemble of the high school. This class will focus on choral literature for small ensembles. Students in Chamber Choir will also prepare repertoire for the HS Chorale in performances and festivals. This ensemble also provides students with hands-on experience using Solfeggio and proper techniques in singing to develop a greater depth of musical artistry. Previous musical experience is a requirement for this class and an audition is required.