Visual and Performing Arts
A CAPPELLA CHOIR P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: All students must audition and be recommended by the teacher.
This course is designed for students with previous vocal music experience and is a performance class. Special emphasis is placed on interpretive techniques and vocal skills that aid in advanced choral singing. Students will study the major periods of music history and the stylistic characteristics essential to their interpretation. Rehearsals may be held outside of class rime and performances are required. Activities may include concerts, community performances, festivals, tours, musical productions, and field trips. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS, THS
ADVANCED ART P
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Art, Painting, or teacher’s recommendation.
This course is designed for those students who have achieved a grade of “B” or better in a previous art course, a teacher’s recommendation, and who desire additional instruction in advanced drawing, and painting. Since all students have been trained in the fundamentals of art, this class will concentrate on individual achievement beyond the basics. It will give everyone an opportunity for in-depth development in the areas which interest them most. As a student becomes more advanced, he or she will work more independently. All students will set goals for completion of projects conducive to critique and exhibition. This course may be repeated for additional credit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS
ADVANCED ART PRODUCTION
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Commercial/Fashion Illustration.
This class is for advanced students to continue and improve their skills in graphics and fashion illustration. Advanced students are expected to explore in-depth graphic techniques using a variety of media and styles. They will expand their art experience in special interest areas as well as prepare finished work for a portfolio and exhibition. Career opportunities in commercial art, fashion design and all types of art will be explores. This course may be repeated for credit.This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS
ADVANCED DANCE
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This class offers training and challenges for the experienced dancer. The primary focus is on performing and therefore participation in a dance concert if required. Dancers are required to dance in bare feet, wear black shorts that end above the knee and wear a white tank top or T-shirt. MEHS
ADVANCED JAZZ BAND P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Concurrent membership in Concert Band or Orchestra.
This is an advanced musical performing group and its purpose is to develop an appreciation for jazz music through playing jazz music. Emphasis will be to further the student’s development of the jazz concept, including improvisational skills. Among activities are performances at concerts, jazz festivals, community functions, and other schools. Concerts and other performances are an important part of class activity and participation is required. Concurrent membership in Symphonic Band or Orchestra is also required. Instructor approval may be required. This course may be repeated for credit.This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS
ADVANCED JEWELRY P
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: All jewelry students are recommended to have at least one art class prior to enrolling in Jewelry (i.e., 3D Design or Art). To take Advanced Jewelry, students will have to have taken Jewelry and passed with a “B” or higher.
This course is designed for continuing Jewelry students who wish to improve their skills and to continue their development in Jewelry. In addition to skills learned in the first course (fabrication, soldering, forging, “lost wax” casting, enameling, patination), students will begin to look at other areas of study (natural casting, tool making, metal smithing). This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. MEHS
ADVANCED PLACEMENT STUDIO ART
Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
This course requires a more significant commitment of time and effort than most other high school art courses. This course is intended for students who wish to pursue serious study in the arts. Students must be highly motivated, have had previous successful experience in art courses and be willing to devote considerate time and effort to the study of art and the development of high-level skills. Students interested in taking AP Studio Art must have a Portfolio Review in which eligibility is determined. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS, THS
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY P
Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Photography.
Extension to basic photography course. Advanced students do independent regular photo projects and learn photo shop.This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS, THS
ADVANCED 3-D DESIGN P
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation only.
This course is for advanced students who achieved a “B” or better in 3-D Design and wish to continue to improve and develop three- dimensional sculpture and crafts skills. Advanced students are expected to explore in-depth special interest areas as well as add new crafts and sculpture experiences. Materials used may include clay, wood, leather, paper, plastic, yarns, metal, etc. This course emphasizes craftsmanship, originality, and marketable products. This course may be repeated for credit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS, THS
ART P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This is a beginning course introducing drawing, painting, printmaking and design as fundamentals of art. Assignments will include a variety of projects directed to help students to learn control in the use of line, shade, texture, space, form, and color. Art pieces from past and present are used to give direction showing possible solutions to particular assignments. Emphasis will be placed on individual creative expression with basic ability to judge and evaluate that expression. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. BHS, HHS, MEHS, THS
ART HISTORY P
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course is a comprehensive study of the art of humans extending from the time of cave paintings to the present day. We will develop an understanding and appreciation of the visual arts through artistic perception and creative expression in their historical and cultural contexts. Further study shall explore aesthetic valuing and the connections, relations, and applications of the visual arts. The elements and principles of design will serve as the foundation for each unit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts.
ART PRODUCTION
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course is designed as an entry level class to teach students the rudiments of drawing the human form; stressing proportion, action, and distortion. Students will learn techniques of creating an advertising layout, commercial lettering, and silk screening on fabric. Color theory and drawing styles will be taught and applied to fashion design and illustration. A variety of 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional projects will be given. HHS, MEHS
BEGINNING INSTRUMENTS
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This is a beginning instrumental music class designed to prepare students with little or no musical experience for participation in other high school performing groups and to develop an appreciation for instrumental music through playing instrumental music. Instruments offered may include Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Baritone Horn, Tuba or Sousaphone, Percussion, Violin, Cello, and String Bass. The student may have to acquire his or her own instrument. HHS
CERAMICS P
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course offers students an opportunity to explore the possibilities of clay as a creative medium. Drawing and design skills will be used in Ceramics to develop ideas for individual projects. Emphasis will be upon design and craftsmanship. Construction techniques will involve coil, slab, and wheel thrown forms. Class projects will acquaint students with clay sources, glazed and the firing process. This course may be repeated for credit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS, THS
CHORUS P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Recommendation: Ability to sing with accurate pitch.
This course is open to students who have had little or no experience in choral singing. It is designed for the development of good vocal techniques and musical skills. A variety of choral literature will be studied with emphasis on good tone production, singing in harmony, and music reading skills. Field trips and homework related to the study of music may be assigned. Performances are a required class activity. This course may be repeated for credit. This course meets the UC/CSU “f” requirement for Visual and performing Arts. HHS, MEHS
COLOR GUARD
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This class is comprised of both Identification and Flag teams. Students enrolled in this class will be assigned to one of these two units. These teams are an integral part of the school’s marching band and will be asked to perform with the band during parade competitions, band reviews in a variety of dance styles. Performance activities will include athletic events, marching band reviews, and competitions. Instructor approval and audition will be required. Attendance at concerts, band reviews, fund raising and other related performances are an important part of class activity and participation is a requirement. This course may be repeated for credit. Both returning and new students are encouraged to enroll. HHS
CONCERT CHOIR P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Recommendation: Ability to sing with accurate pitch.
This course is open to students who have had little or no experience in choral singing. It is designed for the development of good vocal techniques and musical skills. A variety of choral literature will be studied with emphasis on good tone production, singing in harmony, and music reading skills. Field trips and extra rehearsals will be assigned. Performances are a required activity. This course may be repeated for credit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS
CONCERT BAND
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Music teacher’s recommendation for incoming 9th graders.
This is an intermediate performing group and its purpose is to develop an awareness and appreciation of band music through playing band music. Several types of band literature are explored and performed. Emphasis is on preparation for Symphonic Band. Students will receive training designed to advance their musical abilities. Marching techniques are optional. Students may develop technique on a second instrument. Concerts and performances are an important part of the class activity and participation is required. This class is open to all grade levels, but highly recommended to students with at least one-year experience. Instructor approval may be required. This course meets both CSU and UC admission requirements HHS, MEHS, THS
DRAMA P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Recommendation: At or above grade level English.
This course will contain units from pantomime, improvisation, scene study, theater games and imagination exercises, vocal warm-ups and voice study, reading plays, technical theater, theater history, costuming and playwriting. The student should get a well-rounded introduction to the theater and an understanding of the interaction of the elements of theater production. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, THS
HUMANITIES P
Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
Music, dance, architecture, the theatrical and visual arts are languages that reach all people at their deepest and most essential human level. This course is designed to provide students with a background in the arts. It will include reading, discussion, lectures, writing, music appreciation, field trips and creative problem solving, and other activities. The course will cover the Prehistoric Age to the present. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. THS
INDEPENDENT DIRECTED STUDY – FINE ARTS
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course is designed for the student who wishes to become an artist. In this course the student will be expected to pursue a self- directed course of study, leading to a portfolio of work. The student, with the teacher, will establish the artistic goals he/she wishes to meet. Entry into the course is with teacher approval or his/her recommendation only. Student will meet with another class. This course may be repeated for credit.
JAZZ BAND
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Concurrent membership in Symphonic Orchestra.
This is an intermediate musical performing group and its purpose is to introduce the student to jazz music through playing jazz music. Emphasis will be placed on learning fundamental jazz concepts and techniques and to prepare the student for Jazz I. Activities may include performances at other schools, concerts, and jazz festivals. Concerts and other performances are an important part of class activity and participation is required. Concurrent membership in Symphonic Band, Concert Band, or Orchestra is required. Instructor approval may be required. This course may be repeated for credit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirement for Visual and performing Arts. HHS, MEHS
JEWELRY P
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Art, 3-D Design, or teacher’s recommendation.
This course is designed for the student who wishes to learn to design and make jewelry. A wide variety of techniques, such as fabrication from wire or sheet metal, by the “lost wax” casting method, and many different materials will be used to create a personal statement. Individual projects and creative work are encouraged. First year class may be taken in Grade 10. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts.
MUSIC APPRECIATION
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course is a serious study of music from the Renaissance to the present for the inexperienced listener. All styles will be studied as they relate to other art forms, history, and related social aspects. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirement for Visual and Performing Arts.
MUSIC IN FILM
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course will bring to the students an increased awareness to the study of the many functions of film music and its prominent role in cinema. It is the intent of this class to bring music to the forefront of film by surveying film music from the silent film era to the present.. The class will also study the compositional works of prominent film composers and explore the elements of music, musical forms and style periods. HHS
ORCHESTRA/STRINGS P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Ability to perform on a string instrument and to read music.
This is a musical performing group and its purpose is to develop an appreciation for orchestral music through playing orchestral music. Orchestral music of many styles and periods will be explored and performed. Activities may include concerts, orchestra festivals, orchestra clinics, a spring tour, performances at other schools, and other performing opportunities. Concerts and related performances are an important part of class activity and participation is required. Instructor approval may be required. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS. MEHS, THS
PHOTOGRAPHY (ROP)
Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course trains students for various areas of specialization within the photography industry. This course is designed to integrate knowledge and hands-on learning through the production, processing, and editing or photography projects. The essentials of photography include editing techniques and aesthetics, lighting sets and background development. Those who choose to take an additional year will have the opportunity to work independently for in-depth achievement beyond the basics. They will set goals for completion of projects conducive to critique and exhibition. This course may be repeated for credit. HHS, MEHS
PIANO
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This is a beginning level course to develop a student’s knowledge of music through the ability to play the piano. Basic principles of music theory, harmony, and composition are also included with a variety of piano literature. HHS, MEHS, THS
RADIO BROADCASTING
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This course teaches students to create air check tapes, write resumes, produce promotional contributor of public service announcements. Classroom instruction covers FCC rules, terminology, operating procedures, tape and compact disc systems, research methods for music and audience, advertising and promotion, broadcast finance and production. THS
SHOW CHOIR
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: All students must audition and be recommended by teacher.
This course is designed for students with previous vocal music experience and is a performance class. Special emphasis is placed on interpretive techniques and vocal study skills that will enhance stylistic singing. Students will study the techniques of jazz and popular music including such areas as improvisation, usage of microphones, and some choreography. Extra rehearsals may be held outside of class time and performances are required. Activities may include concerts, community performances, festivals, tours, musical productions, and field trips. This course may be repeated for credit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirement for Visual and performing Arts. MEHS
STAGECRAFT
Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
This is a course in building sets and designs for various school productions. It will include working with paints, tools, etc. and will be responsible for building all sets for school musicals, choir productions, etc.
STEEL DRUMS
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Former structured music experience is necessary.
This may be a beginning or advanced performing group and its purpose is to develop an appreciation for steel band music through steel band music. All types of band literature are performed. Activities may include concerts, some athletic events help at school and away, band days, band clinics, music festivals, parades, spring tours, and graduation ceremonies. Additional opportunities may include rally/pep band, solo and ensemble performances, and conducting experience. Attendance at concerts and other related performances are an important part of class activity and participation is a requirement. Instructor approval may be required. This course may be repeated for credit.
SYMPHONIC BAND P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: All students must audition and be recommended by the teacher. Concurrent enrollment in Marching Band is required.
This is an advanced musical performing group and its purpose is to develop an appreciation for band music through playing band music. All types of band literature are performed. Activities may include concerts, some athletic events held at school and away, band days, band clinics, music festivals, parades, spring tours and graduation ceremonies. Additional opportunities may include rally/pep band, solo and ensemble performances, and conducting experience. Attendance at concerts and other related performances are an important part of class activity and participation is a requirement. Instructor approval may be required. This course may be repeated for credit. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS, MEHS, THS
THREE DIMENSIONAL DESIGN P
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
In this course, you will make three-dimensional crafts and sculptures using several materials. They may include clay, wood, leather, plaster, paper, yarns, and metal. Students will create a variety of works for learning skills and for personal enjoyment. The course is a survey of sculpture and crafts. This course meets UC/CSU “f” requirements for Visual and Performing Arts. HHS
WIND ENSEMBLE
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None.
Wind Ensemble is an advanced performing class comprised of selected members from the Symphonic Band. Instrumentation needs are determined by the instructor and frequently vary year to year. Students will perform at school concerts and attend music competitions and festivals. Advanced ability on a wind instrument, concurrent enrollment in Symphonic band and instructor approval are required. MEHS