Visual & Performing Arts

Offered to grades 11 and 12

Guidelines: Grade of A- in History, Literature or Art course and teacher recommendation. Students who do not meet the grading guidelines may discuss placement with teacher.

The course requires a summer assignment and independent work on the part of the student. This course is designed for students planning to take the Advanced Placement Art History Assessment and provides an in depth understanding and comprehensive overview of how architecture, sculpture, painting and other art forms form our modern understanding of history. In the course, students examine history through the lens of the buildings and art that was created during each period of history beginning with global pre-history, moving through global contemporary. As required from the College Board, students will be required to memorize and understand 250 works of art and archi- VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS AMITY REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL 85 tecture from across both Western and Non-Western cannons of art. Focus is given to content, context, form and function of each work. Evaluation of student performance is based on tests, quizzes, homework, and projects. This class is for students who have demonstrated exceptional ability in humanities or history courses, or who have an extraordinary interest in art. Advanced Placement courses are weighted as honors courses when computing Quality Point Average.

Students will:

Demonstrate a wide range of knowledge about artists, schools, movements, styles and techniques

Express formal analysis of art in context to culture, history and artistic tradition, both Western and Non Western

Determine the function of works of art, patronage and chronology

Understand the elements of art and fundamental art historical terminology

Understand and analyze the required 250 works of art in terms of content, context, form and function.

Understand cross currents among artistic traditions

Offered to grades 9, 10 , 11 and 12

Have you ever wondered why some art is worth so much money? Do you know what "art" actually means? By taking this course, you will get an overview of the history of art by examining different themes which occur in art from around the world. You will have an opportunity to understand art both contextually and stylistically by exploring various factors in the creation of art such as materials, time, place and function. By the end of the course, you will be able to identify specific characteristics of art from different periods or places, and even explain why some works are worth so much! Students will be expected to read about art and create both written and project-based responses to the works they study which will prepare them for further study in AP art history.

Students will:

Become proficient in analyzing specific characteristics of art from different places and times

Examine, identify and discuss various themes related to the history of art

Develop a greater sense of interpreting and understanding visual images

Explore responding to art both in writing and by artistic means

Offered to grades 10, 11 and 12 (can elect honors credit)

Half Year - LE/LH .5 Credit

(This course can be taken for recurring credit)

This advanced acting and video production course introduces students to development of skills in performance, script, and character development for on- camera acting and behind the camera directing techniques. Emphasis is placed on lecture/studio lab course work and project presentations which are designed to give the student actor and director a foundation in skills and techniques employed in film production, acting and auditioning for the camera.

Students will:

·  Demonstrate advanced skills in film acting and directing techniques

·  Demonstrate skill in analysis and interpretation of characters in film scripts

·  Demonstrate advanced skill in implementing previously learned acting and film concepts

Course offered to grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 (LE and LH options)   

This course can be taken for recurring credit– up to two times.

This course will explore and develop concepts of television production for broadcast while establishing an understanding of media literacy. Designed to be a hands-on experience aspects of the course include: TV studio production and multi-camera live event coverage. As a main component of this course, students produce a morning news announcement show called The Amity Update. This show focuses on Amity news, sports, and weather in a live-to-tape broadcast every other day. During production, students incorporate various broadcast equipment and are tasked with fulfilling the many different jobs in the studio environment. Event coverage and content created by this course is shared with the larger Amity community through local educational access TV stations. Students may repeat this course for credit. These advanced students may act as associate producers – often working independently on video projects throughout the course. 

Students will:  

Develop an understanding of media communications and its many facets.  

Work collaboratively as a team to produce various news programs.  

Enhance field/studio production techniques through immersion within the medium. 

Build a solid understanding of news writing for broadcast. 

Grades 10, 11, 12

Half Year - Level E .5 Credit

Prerequisite: Studio Art I

This course will teach students how to use digital media proficiently in both fine art and commercial art. In addition to production skills, this course builds critical literacy and understanding of the two fields of commercial and fine art. This course uses Adobe Suite software with some traditional art media.

Essential Benchmarks – Students will:

·proficient with using digital media to create artwork

·the role of digital media in our contemporary culture

·conclusions from class critiques to finish up with a small portfolio of both fine art and digital images.

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 

The object of this program is to introduce the student to video as an art form. It is designed to encourage creative and imaginative use of video through analysis and comprehension of the medium. Aspects of video production that will be covered include the visual image, story structure, camera techniques, and the impact of music. In pre-production students will create treatments, storyboards, and shooting scripts. During production students will use the video camera to demonstrate an understanding of specific techniques used in film. In the last phase of these short projects, students will learn to create a project in Final Cut Pro, and edit a basic sequence. Selected classic and contemporary films will be screened to serve as models for class work. The class is designed to be a hands-on experience. 

Students will: 

Demonstrate knowledge of specific shot types  

Understand and demonstrate composition skills in filming and editing  

Be able to distinguish different genres of media communication  

Plan, create and execute several short videos

Offered to grades 10, 11 and 12                                             

Prerequisite: Filmmaking I, Broadcast Journalism, or  approval of the instructor

This class is for students who have video experience and want an advanced course in cinematography and editing techniques. Selected classic and contemporary films will be screened to serve as models for class work. Students will study various story structures found in film. Students will also learn how to appropriately use sound recording equipment during filming. This focus on sound will effectively enhance the quality of the film projects produced in the course. The students will script, storyboard, shoot and edit a selection of video projects. In the second semester students will work on an independent project by choosing to do an original short video. Students will leave the course with a firm understanding of why elements of the story are linked with the visuals. 

Students will:  

Develop advanced digital editing and film writing competencies  

Demonstrate knowledge of various story structures  

Analyze film appropriately 

Understand the filmmaker’s motivation and role of audience  

Develop ideas into creative works 

Offered to grades 11 and 12                                             

Prerequisite: Filmmaking II, or  approval of the instructor

Contracted LE/LH

This course will challenge students to master the conceptual and technical skills of visual storytelling to produce more advanced, field projects on selected, specialized topics that may change from semester to semester. The course emphasizes the realm of professional production, including writing and directing, production management, production, post-production, distribution and marketing. Students must consider visual esthetics, representation, and audience reception as they produce individual and/or collaborative projects.  In post-production, students will also explore the expressive capacity of the editing process; how editing functions to create time, tempo and visual rhythm; the building of scenes in editing to achieve various dramatic goals; and telling the story through careful control of sound and image over time. Students gain experience in using the tools and techniques of modern digital post-production technology. Topics may include: post-production planning; continuity editing; digital video effects; compositing; green screen techniques; graphics design; 2D and 3D animation; audio mixing and sound design.

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11 and 12

This course is designed to introduce students to the creative and fascinating world of photography with an emphasis on using the cameras we carry on a daily basis. Introduction to the history of photography from the inception of the camera through the digital process of today’s world. There will be an over view of how to shoot images with proper composition, lighting and development of editing there images in the Photoshop program in the computer. Working with apertures, shutter speeds, and ISO are stressed. Photo I is a stress on the basics of how to see and the magic and excitement that that brings.

Students will:

• Work properly with composition in a photograph

• Adjust the camera’s settings including shutter speed, aperture and ISO.

• Work with digital processing to create suitable files for print

• Properly evaluate and assess the quality of a photograph through the critique process

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11 and 12                                            

Prerequisite: Photography I 

This course builds from the skills of Photo 1 by focusing on the potential applications of Digital SLR cameras, flashes and light equipment for studio photography. Students will begin to build a portfolio of prints that demonstrate knowledge of the wide variety of technical and artistic possibilities.  Knowledge of different manual camera settings, and artificial light sources will be covered throughout the semester. Students will also learn advanced processing skills within Photoshop for editing and creating digital art.

Students will:

·    Demonstrate knowledge of basic camera lenses and equipment used with Digital SLR’s

·    Produce a variety of photographs that demonstrate the ability to work with depth-of-field, shutter speeds, visual adjustments, and altering lighting conditions

·    Begin to Learn how to apply photography in authentic situations such as journalism, fine art and commercial use

Offered to Grades 11 and 12        

Prerequisite: Photography I and II or Instructor Approval 

This course can be taken a second time for credit

This course teaches students advanced technical and conceptual approaches to visual problems in photography.  There will be an emphasis on independent and collaborative projects both with both an armature and professional themes. Critiques will be on going throughout the class for skill and image success . The course load works up to showing in a professional gallery in the area.

Students will:

This course will offer the advanced student problem-solving opportunities in a range of visual and technical concepts

Continue their personal exploration of emotional, social and visually powerful images with the idea of the view in mind

Demonstrate the ability to work in a professional situation with poise and pleasing the client

Create a portfolio that will be able to be used for business and entrance into art school

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 (can elect honors credit)

Understanding Film is a course is for students who enjoy watching films, and want to develop skills to further appreciate, understand and enjoy this ever-changing art form. Students will view films through the lens of a director, cinematographer, editor and screenwriter and will understand how each contributes to the final cut of a film. A wide selection of films will be screened in class to enable the student to learn more about film structure and the role of film in our culture. Students will also have the opportunity to choose a film of their own choice, and view and study it in class. 

Students will:  

Develop the vocabulary and critical viewing skills to understand and analyze film texts, audio and images  

Analyze the changing elements of film structure from the early 20th century to the present.  

Utilize the principles of media literacy to analyze, evaluate and create media 

Grades 11-12  Full Year– Level H                                     1 Credit

Prerequisite: Studio Art III or Approval by Instructor

This course is for highly motivated, committed students who are seriously interested in the study of art. Students will create a portfolio demonstrating mastery of two dimensional design through the elements and principles of art.  Students can use a range of media and techniques such as digital imaging, photography, collage, fabric design, illustration, painting and printmaking. The course provides the student the opportunity for in-depth investigation and discovery in their artwork through sustained investigation and selected works portfolios. The course requires summer work.

Students will:

·       Be engaged in student problem-solving opportunities in a range of visual and technical concepts

·       Continue their personal exploration of emotional, social and visually powerful images with the idea  of the viewer in mind

·       Create a portfolio that will be able to be used for business and entrance into art school

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11,and 12

Apply the fundamentals of drawing and painting to structured problems that lead to development of art skills, and creative problem solving ability. Using various drawing and painting media and techniques (pencil, charcoal, pen & ink, watercolor, acrylics), students will work from direct observation to study man-made and natural objects, still-life, perspective, landscape, figure, portraiture and design. Students will use the language of art to critique classwork and famous art to show understanding of the principles and elements of design. Assignments can be used for portfolios for college entrance. 

Students will:  

Develop skills and fundamentals of drawing and painting  

Critique classwork and famous art showing principles of design 

Offered to grades 10, 11 and 12            

Prerequisite:  Studio Art I 

Independent problem solving and emphasis on design, drawing, and painting skills form the basis for this second year study. The self-directed student, with teacher guidance, will research, plan, and complete class assignments. The individual is encouraged to explore a wide variety of media. This course is directed for the student who may be planning to enter into an art career. 

Students will:  

Research self-directed problem solving with emphasis on design, drawing and painting

Offered to grades 11 and 12 

can be taken a second time for credit

Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Studio Art II or instructor approval

This course is designed for the student with proven ability and possible interest in continuing the study of art beyond high school. Course structure and emphasis includes student involvement in studio experience, art research, career orientation, written and class critiques, as well as independent activities. A substantial amount of work is required outside of class and on a daily classroom basis. 

Students will:  

Demonstrate superior ability and interest in art beyond high school  Involvement in studio art research, critiques and career orientation 

Grade 11,12

Full Year- LH    1 Credit

Prerequisites: 2 Semesters of Ceramics I, Ceramics II or 3D Sculpture or Ceramics III

This course is for highly motivated students who are seriously interested in the study of the art; the course demands significant commitment. Students will submit a portfolio for evaluation at the end of the year. For this portfolio, students are asked to demonstrate mastery of 3-D design through their chosen medium including, but not limited to, figurative or non-figurative ceramics and pottery. This course requires independent summer work.

Students will:

·       Be encouraged to be creative and systematic in their investigation of formal and conceptual issues

·       Understand that making art is an ongoing process that involves the student in informed and critical decision making

·       Be encouraged to become independent thinkers who will contribute inventively and critically to their culture through the making of art

Offered to grades 11 and 12

The course will allow students to use metal, wood, plastic and reclaimed materials to create various forms whether sculptural or functional. Students will learn the basic techniques to create geometric, abstract and organic forms. The course will include discussions of metal sculpture history with an exploration of an artist's creative process. Students will also learn how to operate and use various metal fabrication power equipment, CNC equipment and hand tools to create various designs. All students will be required to pass a safety test before working with any equipment. 

Students will:  

Be proficient at creating balanced functional and sculptural works of art using metal, wood , plastic and other materials as a medium  

Interpret and develop creative expression in three dimensional art forms  

Research and develop artistic and technical skills that will lead them toward a career  

Utilize different welding techniques  

Operate metal fabrication equipment, CNC equipment, hand tools and CAD/CAM software 

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11, 12. 

• This program will give students an opportunity to use a variety of materials to solve problems and to develop skills for becoming a craftsman and producing a functionable art. The emphasis of the course is developing a thought process to produce quality work with jewelry, vessels, book binding and working with textiles.  will be using techniques of traditional and contemporary crafts.  

Students will: 

• Be able to plan and execute projects using various techniques and media. 

• Track and assess progress relating to improvement of the elements of art.

• Develop an awareness of aesthetic design and quality craftsmanship.

• Recognize career possibilities within the design field.

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11, 12.  

This course introduces the basic hand building techniques of pinch, coil, and slab pottery as well as an introduction to the potter’s wheel.  Structured projects emphasize design quality and skill building in order to create original ceramic forms. 

Students will:

• Demonstrate a skill in hand building techniques

• Explore the use of the pottery wheel to create ceramics forms

• Keep a sketchbook journal of project ideas and process notes

Offered to grades 10, 11, 12                                                       

Prerequisite: Ceramics I

Expanding upon previous hand building potter’s wheel experience, students will advance their skills through the creation of functional and sculptural forms. Traditional and non-traditional forms using hand building methods and the potter’s wheel will be explored and researched in order to enhance the student’s understanding.  This course will focus on independent problem solving, emphasis on form, balance and refinement of work

Students will:

·    Be proficient at creating balanced functional works of art using the pottery wheel and hand building methods.

·    Interpret and develop creative expression in three dimensional art forms

·    Research and develop artistic skills that will lead them toward a career in the visual arts

 Offered to grades 11 and 12.         

Prerequisite: Ceramics II

 (This course can be taken a second time for credit) 

This course is designed for the ceramic student with proven ability and possible interest in continuing the study of art beyond high school. Students will create engaging individual works of art that are influenced through self- guided research, museum visits and personal experience. Students will begin to understand a working studio environment through participation in kiln loading, clay making and general studio maintenance. A substantial amount of work is required outside of class and on a daily classroom basis.

 Students will:

·    Develop themes and works of art that explore individual interests

·    Have an in depth understanding of studio maintenance and management

·    Participate in classroom critiques and career orientation

Offered to grades 9, 10, 11, 12. 

Students will be introduced to 3-dimensions through the study of abstract, representational and functional sculpture. This class is intended to promote higher level thinking, help students build problem-solving skills, confidence and pride in their accomplishments. This course is designed to foster imagination and the skills necessary to produce 3-dimensional artworks. 

Essential Benchmarks - 

Students will:  

Differentiate between abstract, representational functional and non-functional works of art  

Use a sketchbook to record potential designs and develop solutions to anticipated problems  

Become familiar with the range of sculpture materials suitable for each assignment