Visual and Performing Art Electives

Suggested Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: none

Max G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Humanities is a survey of various beliefs, thoughts, values, and customs as portrayed in history, literature, language, folklore, music, philosophy, religion, visual art, and performing arts. Students will trace human attempts to establish meaning, understanding, and appreciation towards society and culture. This course is primarily organized as a topical experience with appropriate chronological sequence being considered. (HAVPA = Humanities and Visual Performing Arts)

Offered at OCHS through JCTC Junior Core

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the JCTC Junior Core Program

Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0 semester long course

Course Description: This course introduces students to at least five disciplines in the humanities, such as art, literature, dance, drama, cinema, philosophy, music, architecture, religion, and mythology. This course explores distinctions and relationships between the disciplines through study of their basic methods, themes, and forms.

Suggested Grade Level 9 – 12

Prerequisite: None

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students are introduced to the basic fundamentals of artistic expression. The course includes experiences in drawing, painting, two-and three-dimensional design, sculpture, and other art forms. The course emphasizes observations, interpretation of the visual environment, visual communication, imagination and symbolism, and an introduction to various visual arts techniques and media. The focus of the course is on application of the fundamental processes of artistic expression and application of the concepts and approaches in the symbolic aspects of art and design to two- and three-dimensional problems so that they demonstrate a range of abilities and versatility with technique, problem solving, and ideation. A study of historical and contemporary art and artists from a worldwide perspective, and instruction and practice in peer review through the critique process, presentation or their, responding to art and connecting their art to the world around them are included. There is a fee charged and additional supplies may be required.

Suggested Grade Level 10 – 12

Prerequisite: None

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description:Students explore an art form, obtaining knowledge in that form to plan and create individual works of art based on such knowledge, while following and breaking from traditional conventions. Students examine the language, materials, media, and processes of that particular art form and the fundamental processes of artistic expression supporting a work. Advanced instruction encourages students to develop their own artistic styles. Although Comprehensive Visual Arts courses focus on creation, inclusion of the study and analysis of major artists, art movements, and styles is included. In completing this course, students consider various techniques, methods, venues, and criteria for analyzing and selecting their art for preservation and presentation, including evolving technologies when preparing and refining artwork for display.  There is a fee charged and additional supplies may be required.

CERAMICS / POTTERY
Elective Course offered alternating years with Sculpture
Suggested Grade Level 10 – 12
Prerequisite: Studio Art 1 OR Art Teacher Approval
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: Ceramics/Pottery courses engage students in learning experiences that encompasses the historical and cultural context of ceramics, critiquing their own work and the work of others, aesthetic inquiry, and creative production. They develop knowledge of ceramic techniques and processes with an emphasis on creative design and craftsmanship. Experience includes, but is not limited to, clay modeling, hand building, coil building, casting and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Students develop a working knowledge of kiln firing and glazing techniques. Students balance experimentation and safety, freedom and responsibility while developing and creating artworks.  There is a fee charged and additional supplies may be required.

Elective Course
Suggested Grade Level 10 – 12
Prerequisite: Visual Art 1; This course is paired wtih Hand Crafts
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 0.5

Course Description: This course will focus on the development of photographic composition using the elements and principles of design.  Students will learn to make meaningful visual statements with an emphasis on personal creative expression to communicate ideas,  feelings or values.  The history of photography, historic movements, photo ethics, photo theory, image manipulation,  and creative special effects will be included in this course.  Photo embellishment and use of mixed media will be explored. Cell phone cameras and 35 mm digital cameras will be used in this course.  Students engage in critiques of their photographic images, the works of other students, and those by professional photographers.  

Elective Course
Suggested Grade Level 10 – 12
Prerequisite: Visual Art 1; This course is paired with Photography
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 0.5

Course Description:  This Craft course overviews similar lessons as the VA2: Comprehensive Visual Arts course, but does so with a focus on jhand crafts. This course may survey a wide range of crafts, or students may focus on only one type of craft; possibilities include calligraphy, quilting, silk-screening, cake-decorating, tole-painting, maskmaking, knitting, crocheting, paper-making, etc.

Offered alternating years with Sculpture

Suggested Grade Level: 10 - 12 

Prerequisite: VA1: Fundamentals of Art and Design OR Art Teacher Approval

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0 

Course Description: Ceramics/Pottery courses engage students in learning experiences that encompasses the historical and cultural context of ceramics, critiquing their own work and the work of others, aesthetic inquiry, and creative production. They develop knowledge of ceramic techniques and processes with an emphasis on creative design and craftsmanship. Experience includes, but is not limited to, clay modeling, hand building, coil building, casting and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Students develop a working knowledge of kiln firing and glazing techniques. Students balance experimentation and safety, freedom and responsibility while developing and creating artworks.

Suggested Grade Level 11-12

Prerequisite: At least 2 years of Studio Art Courses and Art Teacher Approval

Max. G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This course is an individualized college level program concentrating in one of three portfolio areas: 2D Design, 3D Design and Drawing. Each student in this course will plan and develop a body of work to be critiqued and scored by the teacher. It will then be scored by College Board for AP Studio Art. The portfolio must consist of a minimum of 25 pieces in the student’s area of concentration. Note: Students are required to turn in an AP art portfolio in order to receive weighted credit and have the course listed as an AP course on the transcript.

Elective Course
Suggested Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: Instructor Approval
Max. G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: Study of music theory, voice-leading/progressions, notation, and ear-training. Through textbook exercises, workbook activities, computer-based drill and practice, and music listening, students will develop a strong basic understanding of how music is constructed and written. The AP examination is available for students at the conclusion of the course. Fees charged to cover the cost of consumables.

AUDITION REQUIRED

Suggested Grade Levels: 9 – 12

Prerequisites: placement audition; participation in 8th grade band program at OCMS or EOMS; teacher approval

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credit: 1.0 each course 

Course Description: All students must take a proficiency test (audition) prior to assignment. Students will perform a minimum of two concerts per semester, as well as individual evaluations via computer software and live performance. Performance in KMEA festivals (small and large ensemble) is required of all members. Attendance at one after-school rehearsal per week is a requirement of the course. Fees will be charged commensurate with travel and program expenses. MARCHING BAND is required of all participants. Summer band camp is required for all members. This is a non-competitive group with after school rehearsals limited to one afternoon per week. The marching band will perform at all home football games and selected community events throughout the fall semester.

Placements in the two bands are based on the audition taken prior to enrollment in the class.

AUDITION REQUIRED 

Suggested Grade Levels: 9 – 12

Prerequisites: placement audition; participation in 8th grade band program at OCMS or EOMS; teacher approval

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credit: 1.0 

Course Description: All students must take a proficiency test (audition) prior to assignment. Students will perform a minimum of two concerts per semester, as well as individual evaluations via computer software and live performance. Performance in KMEA festivals (small and large ensemble) is required of all members. Attendance at one after-school rehearsal per week is a requirement of the course.  Performers will be assigned concert parts based on their placement audition taken prior to enrollment in the class. MARCHING BAND is required of all participants. Summer band camp is required for all members. This is a non-competitive group with after school rehearsals limited to one afternoon per week. The marching band will perform at all home football games and selected community events throughout the fall semester. 

Fees will be charged commensurate with travel and program expenses.

AN AUDITION IS REQUIRED before you will be allowed to register for this course  

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12 

Prerequisites: participation in OCHS Symphonic Band/Percussion Techniques and/or teacher approval; Saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and rhythm section (Piano, drums, guitar, bass)  

Max GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0 

Course Description: This course is designed to be an extension of students’ experience in Symphonic Band and/or Percussion techniques classes—not as a replacement for them.  Wind players wishing to learn a doubling instrument (i.e.: euphonium to trombone; clarinet to saxophone) will be allowed to audition, but must be prepared to provide their own doubling instrument. Rhythm section students not in regular band classes are encouraged to audition and take the course as an elective. Students will perform a minimum of two concerts (one each semester), as well as public performances in the community and at least two evaluated jazz festivals during the year.  Music performed will encompass literature from “big band” jazz and contemporary styles. Study of basic improvisation techniques through computer-based and ‘play-along’ exercises and published literature, major, minor and modal scales used in improvisation, and a wide variety of popular music styles will be rehearsed and performed in public. 

Fees will be charged to cover the costs of travel and consumables.

Suggested Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: The Men’s Choir is an entry level ensemble for men grades 9 – 12. It is a two-semester course in which the student may earn one unit of a Performing Arts credit. The curriculum is designed to cultivate the changing male voice, ear-training, sight singing skills, and competency in reading two- and three-part voicing (TB and TTB). We will utilize repertoire from across a variety of languages and musical styles. Class work includes singing exercises to build, strengthen, and carefully guide the voice through its development, improve diction, breath support, and resonance. Music Theory and Music History are also included in daily instruction. Sight singing technique will be included on a daily basis, and vocal development will be assessed individually with occasional singing tests. Additional work includes solo opportunities, singing in small ensembles, and required evening performances (one per quarter, totaling four per school year).

Suggested Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: The Women’s Choir is an entry level ensemble for women grades 9 – 12. It is a two-semester course in which the student may earn one unit of a Performing Arts credit. The curriculum is designed to cultivate the female voice, ear-training, sight singing skills, and competency in reading two- and three-part voicing (SA and SSA). We will utilize repertoire from across a variety of languages and musical styles. Class work includes singing exercises to build, strengthen, and carefully guide the voice through its development, improve diction, breath support, and resonance. Music Theory and Music History are also included in daily instruction. Sight singing technique will be included on a daily basis, and vocal development will be assessed individually with occasional singing tests. Additional work includes solo opportunities, singing in small ensembles, and required evening performances (one each quarter, totaling four per school year).

Suggest Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisites: Teacher Approval by audition

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This class is designed for highly qualified treble voices to perform music through a variety of music from across a variety of languages, cultures, musical styles, and time periods requiring advanced vocal techniques and advanced sight reading ability. Each member must demonstrate excellent vocal technique and musicianship to participate in this ensemble. Performances and participation in KMEA events and evening concerts(one per quarter, totaling four per school year) are required. Auditions will be held in the spring for this class. Student attitude and attendance must be impeccable to be considered for this ensemble. Students must be enrolled in this course in order to audition for the women's pop a cappella group. 

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisites: teacher approval by audition

Max GPA.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This is a small ensemble that is designed for highly qualified male voices to perform music from across a variety of languages, cultures, musical styles, and time periods. Each member must demonstrate excellent vocal technique and independent musicianship to participate in this ensemble. Performances and participation in KMEA events and evening concerts (one per quarter, totaling four per school year) are required. Auditions will be held in the spring for this class. Student attitude and attendance must be impeccable to be considered for this ensemble.  

Suggested Grade Level: 9 –12

Prerequisites: teacher approval by audition

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: The students will continue to develop their vocal skills, sight-singing ability, musicality and musical understanding in this course. A wide variety of musical styles will be studied including Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and 20-21st century repertoire. Performances and participation in KMEA events and evening concerts (one per quarter, totaling four per school year) are required. Participation in this class is by audition only. Student attitude and attendance must also be impeccable to be considered for this ensemble. Chamber Choir also participates in several elite performance opportunities throughout the year, including the U of L Comstock Chamber Choir Competition and KMEA All-State Choir. Students must be enrolled in this course in order to audition for KMEA All-State Choir.

Suggested Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students enrolled in this performance-oriented class will learn the fundamentals of theatre. We will study theatre history, read plays, improve, perform pantomimes and monologues, and learn about backstage techniques.

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: None

Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students develop experience and skill development in one or more aspects of theatrical production, concentrating on acting and performance skills. Introductory courses explore fundamental techniques. Advanced courses focus on extending and refining technique, expanding students’ exposure to different types of theatrical craft and traditions from varied social/historical contexts, and increasing their participation in publicly staged productions. These courses may also provide a discussion of career and post-secondary placement opportunities.

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: None

Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students experience various aspects of theater, including musicals and plays and the elements of auditioning, singing, acting, directing, and dancing. They review the history and evolution of theater (musicals and plays), its literature and artists, and styles of composition/design and vocal/dance presentation. Students work collaboratively on performances, including solo, duet, and ensemble work. These courses may also provide a discussion of career and post-secondary placement opportunities. 

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description:: Students develop skills in translating a script into a final production and are usually taken after other drama courses. Directing courses enable each student to create an artistic vision and develop a personal aesthetic. Students are exposed to different types of theatrical techniques and traditions. They direct the performances of others (either in scenes or in a full production). These courses may also provide a discussion of career and post-secondary placement opportunities.

Pathway: Cinematography and Video Production

Suggested Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: .5

Course Description: An introduction to and survey of the creative and conceptual aspects of designing media arts experiences and products, including techniques, genres and styles from various and combined mediums and forms, including moving image, sound, interactive, spatial and/or interactive design. Typical course topics include: aesthetic meaning, appreciation and analysis; composing, capturing, processing and programming of media arts products, experiences and communications; their transmission, distribution and marketing; as well as contextual, cultural, and historical aspects and considerations.  This course is paired with Video Studio Fundamentals (2nd Semester)