Visual & Performing Arts

Overview

 

Students have a variety of options for visual and performing arts classes, and students are encouraged to integrate art throughout their other courses. Many assignments will give options that include various forms of art, and students are encouraged to propose alternative assignments that demonstrate learning of the same concept while allowing for additional creativity.  

 

2D Studio Art

Close your eyes and imagine you’re standing in an art studio-the smell of paint, the heat of the kiln, and the infinite creative possibilities that linger in the air.  This is where art is born, and in 2D Studio Art, you’ll learn how to bring your art visions to life.  Whatever medium you prefer- painting, drawing, photography- this course will teach you the design elements and princi

Duration
1 Semester
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th

Art I

Art I was designed with the belief that everyone can learn how to draw and that studying, copying, and learning from the great artists of the past is the best way to develop the great artists of the future. Each lesson is chosen to represent the principles and elements of ART. Lessons are thoughtfully curated to include works from around the world, works from different time periods, and works from many different art movements.
Duration
2 Semesters
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th

Art II

Throughout history, artists have learned by studying the work of great masters before them. This course invites students on a journey through the evolution of art, exploring a variety of artistic movements and styles to find inspiration for their own creative expression. From the expressive brushstrokes of Van Gogh’s post-impressionism to the structured abstraction of Chagall’s cubism and the delicate line work of Hiroshige’s traditional Japanese Ukiyo-e, students will engage with the techniques and artistic philosophies that have shaped the art world.
Duration
1 Semester

Art III

Students will explore the artistic revolution sparked by the Harlem Renaissance, which, along with influences from Realism, Modernism, African art, Regionalism, Cubism, and Art Deco, set the stage for America's most defining contribution to the art world—Abstract Expressionism. Through the works of influential artists such as N.C. Wyeth, Maynard Dixon, Georgia O’Keeffe, William H. Johnson, Alexander Calder, and Jasper Johns, students will gain insight into the evolution of American art and its lasting impact on global culture.
Duration
2 Semesters

Dance

Essential Elective
Portfolio

Students engage in age-appropriate activities modified accordingly for their individual skill level. A course outline provides a detailed course description with competencies listed to facilitate the creation of an individual plan.  Students taking dance are often involved in local classes in their community, and some are developing their skills as professional dancers.

Duration
2 Semesters
Recommended Grade Level
6th - 8th

Digital Art & Design

There are so many different types of art in this- world fine art, classical art, visual art- but the impact of digital art and design is all around us, often in ways that you probably aren’t even aware of! After taking Digital Art and Design, you’ll enjoy a deeper understanding and appreciation for all things digital as you explore this special genre of art found in everything from ad

Duration
1 Semester
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th

Digital Art and Design I

You see digital art every day, and in this course, you not only will investigate digital art, but you’ll learn how to create it yourself! In this course, you will explore the tools, basic concepts, and techniques artists use to create digital art. You'll learn how to use computers, digital cameras, editing software, and more to create digital artworks and grow artistically as you evaluate and respond to your own work.
Duration
2 Semesters

Exploring Music

What comes to mind when you hear the word music? Do you think about your favorite band or artist? Do you think about instruments and scales and chords? The word music means something different to everyone.

Duration
1 Semester
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th

Exploring Music I

Ever wonder how people make music? In this course, you’ll not only investigate musical instruments, composers, styles, and concepts, you’ll explore how it’s used all around the world! You will learn about how musical genres have developed throughout time and in different places, and you’ll dig into how music is created, performed, and experienced. You’ll even have the chance to make some tunes of your own!
Duration
2 Semesters

Exploring Two-Dimensional Art

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the vibrant world of two-dimensional art. In this course, you’ll tell your own story through art as you develop skills in drawing, painting, and more! Get inspired as you investigate artworks and how to use the elements of art and principles of design as you create and reflect on your own art. There are supplies you’ll need to purchase for this class, but don’t worry. You have choices in what you can use.
Duration
1 Semester

Music

Essential Elective
Portfolio

Students engage in age-appropriate activities modified accordingly for their individual skill level. A course outline provides a detailed course description with competencies listed to facilitate the creation of an individual plan.  Students taking music are often involved in local classes in their community, and some are developing their skills as professional musicians.

Duration
2 Semesters
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th

Photography I

Photographs are all around us, and each helps to tell a story. Now it’s time for you to create your story through photos you learn how to take in this course. In the first semester, learn the basics of using a camera, lighting, and how to choose great subjects to create magazine-worthy photos and amaze your friends and family with your skills.

Duration
2 Semesters
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th

Theater

Essential Elective
Portfolio

Students engage in age-appropriate activities modified accordingly for their individual skill level. A course outline provides a detailed course description with competencies listed to facilitate the creation of an individual plan.  Students taking theater are often involved in local classes in their community, and some are developing their skills as professionals.

Duration
2 Semesters
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th

Theatre, Cinema & Film Production

Lights, camera, action! Step into the world of performance productions, exploring the elements of theatre and cinema. You'll compare how different elements in theatre and film, including historical and cultural influences, serve the story and articulate themes. You'll get a detailed view of the creative, performance, and technical operations behind theatre and film and gain experience and insights into various aspects of production. From viewing, writing, planning, designing, directing, and producing, you'll have a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of performance, whether on stage or screen.
Duration
2 Semesters

Visual Art I

Ever wonder about how you can create art? In this course, you’ll connect with art created by other artists as you learn how to plan, create, and reflect on your own art. You’ll discover tools and techniques artists use as you create your own drawings, sculptures, paintings, photographs, and mixed-media works. You’ll need to purchase supplies for this class. But don’t worry, you have choices in what you can use!
Duration
1 Semester

Visual Art II

Inspiration comes from anywhere. In this course, you will explore artistic themes as you create your own portrait, earth, paper, Pop, and globally inspired art. Whether this is your first art course or one of many in your artistic journey, it will help grow your skills and techniques, as you experiment with mediums like drawing, painting, sculpting, mixed media, and even digital art. You’ll need to purchase supplies for this class. But don’t worry, you have choices in what you can use!
Duration
1 Semester

Visual Arts

Essential Elective
Portfolio

Students engage in age-appropriate activities modified accordingly for their individual skill level. A course outline provides a detailed course description with competencies listed to facilitate the creation of an individual plan.  Students taking visual arts are often involved in local classes in their community, and some are developing their skills as professional artists.

Duration
2 Semesters
Recommended Grade Level
6th-8th