Grades 10–12. Term II, ½ credit.

Building on the techniques and skills introduced in Acting I, students continue to explore character development, text analysis and staging. To provide focus for class work, a play will be selected for the students enrolled in this course. This text serves as a springboard for students to dig deeper into character objective, action, subtext, as well as the physical life of the play. Students work toward immediacy in their performances, learning to trust their instincts and live in the moment, while staying connected to the ensemble and the physical life of the play. (Prerequisite: Acting I)

Ceramics

Grades 11 & 12, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30

Students learn basic techniques of working with clay: hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing and decorating. Exercises stimulate the imagination and response to the medium of clay. The course includes specific assignments as well as student-devised projects.

Concert Band

Grades 9–12, Full year plus required
performances, 1 credit 

This ensemble is devoted to playing masterworks from the wind band literature as well as other music written for woodwinds, brass, and percussion instruments. The course may also accept a limited number of pianists and upright/electric bassists. Aside from rehearsing performance repertoire, the class may also incorporate chamber music, music theory, or composing/arranging. The ensemble performs publicly at least twice per year. (All students must re-audition every year.)

Design Engineering 

Grades 10–12, Term II, ½ credit, Student may declare credit for Science or Art

Answering the call of  twenty-first century research to recognize the powerful synergy between art and science, this multidisciplinary course is team-taught by teachers in both disciplines. Students explore the space where science and art overlap by working individually and collaboratively on a series of projects and research-based experiments. Equal time in the classroom, laboratory, and art studio enables students to learn the science, practice visualizations, and produce viable, creative, and whimsical solutions to scientific problems. Projects may include designing vehicles in which fluid dynamics serve as inspiration for beautiful line patterns and vice versa, creating structures that recognize the relationship of form and function in architecture, mapping the mathematics in nature, manipulating waveforms in the production of music and optical effects. This course counts as an academic course for determining course load. (Co-requisite: Precalculus or higher)

Design: Making and Prototyping

Grades 9–11, Term II, ½ credit

This course is an opportunity for students to innovate, create, and develop an idea into a physical object. Design and maker principles are taught to establish the cognitive framework for students to identify and solve problems related to health and wellness, sustainability, and cultural and social awareness. Dreaming, brainstorming, verbal and written communication, researching, sketching, designing and engineering provide a blueprint for design. Following the creative process, a variety of materials and methods, tools and technology, and
multidisciplinary guidance provide the means to build, assess, and refine the object into a prototype.

Digital Photography 

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30

Students will become familiarized with the fundamental mechanics of a digital single lens reflex camera and the creative manipulations associated with aperture and shutter speed settings. Using Adobe Photoshop software, students will apply varied corrective practices, in addition to more stylized techniques, to help refine their craft and realize a unique vision. By analyzing the aesthetic properties of their own work as well as the work of accomplished photographers, students will develop an ability to think critically and creatively about their personal artistic choices. 

Students who wish to experience the rewards of ensemble playing will enjoy this art choice. The course introduces students to the skills and techniques of musical collaboration. Repertoire is chosen depending on instrumentation and the ability level of the group. The Grade 7 Instrumental Ensemble accommodates all instruments except drums, percussion, and electric guitar. (Audition is required.)

During Grade 7, a different aspect of art—Studio Art, Drama, and either Instrumental Ensemble or Vocal Arts—is introduced during each of the first three quarters. The emphasis is on learning the basic crafts of each art form and having fun. Students choose to continue in one of these disciplines for the final quarter.

During Grade 7, a different aspect of art—Studio Art, Drama, and either Instrumental Ensemble or Vocal Arts—is introduced during each of the first three quarters. The emphasis is on learning the basic crafts of each art form and having fun. Students choose to continue in one of these disciplines for the final quarter.

The Grade 7 Instrumental Ensemble accommodates all instruments except drums, percussion, and electric guitar. Pianists may be offered a place in an ensemble of mixed instrumentation or in a piano workshop in which students learn ensemble skills using two and four-hand piano repertoire. Instrumental Ensemble requires a short audition to ensure that the student can read music and play an instrument at a level that enables learning from the ensemble experience.

During Grade 7, a different aspect of art—Studio Art, Drama, and either Instrumental Ensemble or Vocal Arts—is introduced during each of the first three quarters. The emphasis is on learning the basic crafts of each art form and having fun. Students choose to continue in one of these disciplines for the final quarter.

During Grade 7, a different aspect of art—Studio Art, Drama, and either Instrumental Ensemble or Vocal Arts—is introduced during each of the first three quarters. The emphasis is on learning the basic crafts of each art form and having fun. Students choose to continue in one of these disciplines for the final quarter.

Offered Term 2.

Students develop their imaginations through theater games and improvisations. They also analyze and perform classical and modern scripts.

Offered Term 2.

This course is designed to help students attain a general knowledge of drawing and painting and working in clay. For homework, students keep a sketch diary to develop drawing as a form of self-expression parallel to language.

Offered in Term 2.

In this course students learn the basics of cutting, shaping, carving, and joining wood using a variety of hand and power tools. Students begin by creating a low relief sculptural piece from a plank of wood. Later projects might include building boxes, small furniture pieces, and wooden toys.

Graphic Design 

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30 

This course introduces students to the principles and elements of design and the creative process of manipulating visual properties to communicate information. Students will explore traditional graphic design production techniques as well as apply contemporary computer-generated processes using Adobe Illustrator and photoshop. Design problems range from abstract studies to applied works such as posters, logos, and more.

Improvisation

Grades 9–12. Term I or Term II, ½ credit.

Students use theater games and scenic improvisation to explore new ways of creating and portraying character, stories, and ideas. The students’ work culminates in the creation and presentation of a final performance piece.

Intermediate Digital Photography 

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30

Intermediate Digital Photography is an opportunity to hone technical skills while continuing to foster aesthetic thought through the exploration of photography as a mode for personal expression. Bridged upon basic knowledge of digital photography gained in the prerequisite course, students will continue to master camera skills, studio equipment, and advance their knowledge of Photoshop and Camera Raw post-production workflows. Students will be challenged to create a thematic series of works contemplating important aspects of their life. (Prerequisite: Digital Photography).

Introduction to Studio Art 

Grades 9–11, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30

This course introduces students to foundational elements of two-dimensional and three-dimensional studio art. Projects will evolve from drawing and painting to sculptural form, working in a variety of 2D and 3D mediums. By exploring concepts of line, value, positive and negative space, color theory, form and scale, students will have the opportunity to express themselves creatively and broaden their visual art vocabulary. This course provides a strong base for a continuation of art study. A homework sketchbook is required. (This course is a prerequisite for Studio Art I: 2D Emphasis)

Introduction to Studio Art 

Grades 9–11, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30

This course introduces students to foundational elements of two-dimensional and three-dimensional studio art. Projects will evolve from drawing and painting to sculptural form, working in a variety of 2D and 3D mediums. By exploring concepts of line, value, positive and negative space, color theory, form and scale, students will have the opportunity to express themselves creatively and broaden their visual art vocabulary. This course provides a strong base for a continuation of art study. A homework sketchbook is required. (This course is a prerequisite for Studio Art I: 2D Emphasis)

Painting

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II, ½ credit 

This painting course is a hands-on investigation of technical and formal issues in oil painting and builds on skills learned during the Introduction to Studio course: observational drawing, compositional design, and basic color theory. Students will be introduced to classical and contemporary painting, techniques and concepts, with emphasis on the understanding of its formal language and the fundamentals of artistic expression. Painting from still-life, landscape, and other sources will be largely geared towards realism. In addition, students will also try their hand at creating paintings that focus on formal qualities of color and shape, deviating from a realistic approach. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Studio Art or departmental approval)

Painting

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II, ½ credit 

This painting course is a hands-on investigation of technical and formal issues in oil painting and builds on skills learned during the Introduction to Studio course: observational drawing, compositional design, and basic color theory. Students will be introduced to classical and contemporary painting, techniques and concepts, with emphasis on the understanding of its formal language and the fundamentals of artistic expression. Painting from still-life, landscape, and other sources will be largely geared towards realism. In addition, students will also try their hand at creating paintings that focus on formal qualities of color and shape, deviating from a realistic approach. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Studio Art or departmental approval)

Songwriting and Music Composition

Grades 9–12, Term II, ½ credit
Offered every other year
Next offered 2024–2025

This course is designed for students interested in songwriting, film scoring, or other types of music composition. In a workshop setting, students will explore and develop musical ideas, collaborate with others, and develop their skill set as musical creators. Class activities will include group listening, analysis, discussion, and a variety of projects designed to encourage a broader musical understanding. Over the course of the term, students will develop a portfolio of new works and participate in a culminating showcase. Students should have some prior musical experience and be able to read music or tablature and have basic proficiency in an instrument or voice. Materials used in this class include notation software, staff paper, and keyboards in the school’s MIDI lab. (Prerequisite: Departmental Approval)

Grades 9 & 10. Offered Term II, ½ credit. Fee: $30

The first quarter of this course is devoted to the development of essential drawing skills and techniques. As the term unfolds, students are introduced to the various elements of 2-D design, color theory and painting techniques, as well as ceramic sculpting and other three-dimensional work. (Recommended as a prerequisite for Studio Art II and the Advanced Studio Art Program.)

Studio Art I: 2D Emphasis 

Grades 10–12, Full year, 1 credit, Fee: $45 

Students build on skills learned in Introduction to Studio Art and develop a deeper repertoire of two-dimensional visual art techniques with a substantial emphasis on individual creativity. Projects in this course will feature drawing, painting, illustration, and printmaking. Work is reviewed and evaluated through individual and group critiques, where students will develop a vocabulary of both objective and subjective observations and value statements. Students are required to maintain a sketchbook in this course. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Studio Art or approved portfolio submission)

Studio Art II: 3D Emphasis

Grades 10–12, Full year, 1 credit, Fee: $45

Students build on skills learned in Studio Art I through in the application of three-dimensional
visualization and creation. This course introduces tools and techniques that will enable students to produce works in materials that may include ceramics, wood, stone, metal, as well as nontraditional materials like fabric, paper, or food. Analog and digital processes will be explored, and experimentation is encouraged as students start to move toward more independence as
artists. Work is reviewed and evaluated through individual and group critiques. Students are required to maintain a sketchbook in this course. (Prerequisite: Studio Art I: 2D Emphasis)

Studio Art III: Advanced Portfolio

Grades 11 & 12, Full year, 1 credit, Fee: $45

Expanding upon techniques learned through a broad study of the visual arts, this course completes the Studio Arts Program. With an emphasis on breadth and depth of visual arts study and practice, students are guided through a comprehensive portfolio year.
Students will identify an area of focus to begin a concentrated exploration and develop multiple works that show mastery of visual art concepts and methods. Completed portfolio works are selected for inclusion in our final gallery show, which will highlight both process and product. Students are required to maintain a sketchbook in this course. (Prerequisite: Studio Art II: 3D Emphasis)

Grades 9 & 10. offered Term II, ½ credit.

This workshop for students interested in all aspects of theater introduces basic performance techniques, investigates the process of play production, and explores technical aspects such as lighting and set construction. Students prepare scripted material and develop their own projects for performance. They gain practical experience by working on at least one main stage production.

Woodworking

Grades 9 & 10, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30 

This introductory woodworking course is suited to students who have not previously studied woodworking, and will challenge those who have. Students begin by learning the basics of joinery through the building of tool boxes and go on to design and build a piece of furniture of their choosing. Past projects include tables, chairs, and small cabinets. Students use any remaining time to complete a project of their own devising. Students gain extensive experience with a wide range of hand and power tools. The importance of precision is emphasized in every phase of a project.

Offered Term 1.

Students develop their imaginations through theater games and improvisations. They also analyze and perform classical and modern scripts.

Students who wish to experience the rewards of ensemble playing will enjoy this art choice. The course introduces students to the skills and techniques of musical collaboration. Repertoire is chosen depending on instrumentation and the ability level of the group. The Grade 8 Instrumental Ensemble accommodates all instruments except drums, percussion, and electric guitar. (Audition is required.)

Offered Term 1.

This course is designed to help students attain a general knowledge of drawing and painting and working in clay. For homework, students keep a sketch diary to develop drawing as a form of self-expression parallel to language.

Offered Term 1.

In this course students learn the basics of cutting, shaping, carving, and joining wood using a variety of hand and power tools. Students begin by creating a low relief sculptural piece from a plank of wood. Later projects might include building boxes, small furniture pieces, and wooden toys.

Improvisation

Grades 9–12. Term I or Term II, ½ credit.

Students use theater games and scenic improvisation to explore new ways of creating and portraying character, stories, and ideas. The students’ work culminates in the creation and presentation of a final performance piece.

Acting

Grades 10–12. Term I, ½ credit. 

Designed to offer students an opportunity to explore
acting in a playful and supportive environment, this course introduces the techniques an actor uses when preparing a character. Through the use of theater exercises, monologues and scene study, students develop their focus and concentration, work on their vocal and physical technique, and open up their imaginations to the idea of playing a character.

Public Speaking

Grades 11 & 12. Term II, ½ credit.

This course prepares students for the many situations in which they may be required to deliver public addresses. Students analyze styles of oration in the media as well as on campus for efficiency and clarity. Special attention is given to presenting a confident stance, coordinating gestures and to articulate diction. Possible projects include making announcements, introducing guests, delivering toasts, teaching lessons and presenting a formal speech in assembly.

Ensemble Theater Performance

Grades 9 & 10. Term I, ½ credit.

Students participate as actors in a drama production in which the ensemble is on stage during the entire performance. Through a series of vigorous group exercises and collaborative planning, the ensemble experience teaches students the strength and beauty that a coordinated group of actors can offer any performance. Class-time rehearsals and tech rehearsals culminate in two required performances at the end of the term.

Concert Choir 

Grades 9–12, Full year plus required
performances, 1 credit 

Concert Choir exposes students to principles of theory, harmony, and vocal technique as well as concepts of balance, blend, phrasing, nuance and style through study and performance of diverse choral repertoire. Students pursue individual musical excellence within the context of a supportive, community-oriented ensemble. Sectional rehearsals are scheduled within normal class time. This course requires two major public performances each year. (All students must re-audition every year.)

Orchestra 

Grades 9–12, Full year plus required
performances, 1 credit 

This course is a performance ensemble dedicated to exploring great works in the classical tradition. Most class time is devoted to rehearsal, but music theory and history enhance the study of the repertoire. Public performances are given at least twice a year, along with recital opportunities for chamber music and solos. This ensemble is designed primarily for string players. (All students must re-audition every year.)

Jazz Band 

Grades 9–12, Full year plus required
performances, 1 credit 

The Jazz Band performs selections from jazz, blues, rock, Latin, funk, and other genres in the context of a standard “big band” (saxophones, trumpets, trombones, piano, guitar, upright or electric bass, drum set, and auxiliary percussion). This high-energy ensemble frequently performs at events on and off campus. The class will also explore elements of improvisation, music theory, combo playing, and jazz arranging. The ensemble performs publicly at least twice per year. (All students must re-audition every year.)

AP® Music Theory [Fundamentals]

Grades 10–12, Term I, ½ credit 

This course develops a broad vocabulary for describing and analyzing music. Students practice music notation and develop aural skills through singing and dictation exercises. Directed listening and composition assignments enhance the understanding of texture and form. Course requirements include regular homework assignments, tests, and a final composition project. Students who successfully complete both terms of AP® Music Theory may consider registering for the Advanced Placement® Examination in Music Theory. This course counts as an academic course for determining course load.

Digital Photography 

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30

Students will become familiarized with the fundamental mechanics of a digital single lens reflex camera and the creative manipulations associated with aperture and shutter speed settings. Using Adobe Photoshop software, students will apply varied corrective practices, in addition to more stylized techniques, to help refine their craft and realize a unique vision. By analyzing the aesthetic properties of their own work as well as the work of accomplished photographers, students will develop an ability to think critically and creatively about their personal artistic choices. 

Graphic Design 

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30 

This course introduces students to the principles and elements of design and the creative process of manipulating visual properties to communicate information. Students will explore traditional graphic design production techniques as well as apply contemporary computer-generated processes using Adobe Illustrator and photoshop. Design problems range from abstract studies to applied works such as posters, logos, and more.

Intermediate Digital Photography 

Grades 9–12, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30

Intermediate Digital Photography is an opportunity to hone technical skills while continuing to foster aesthetic thought through the exploration of photography as a mode for personal expression. Bridged upon basic knowledge of digital photography gained in the prerequisite course, students will continue to master camera skills, studio equipment, and advance their knowledge of Photoshop and Camera Raw post-production workflows. Students will be challenged to create a thematic series of works contemplating important aspects of their life. (Prerequisite: Digital Photography).

Advanced Digital Photography 

Grades 10–12, Term II, ½ credit, Fee: $30

Motivated by questions and curiosities, students will work closely with the course instructor to define their own photography projects and generate a portfolio of conceptual works that demonstrate a distinct perspective, technical merit, and sensitivity to composition.
Students will be expected to take ownership of their creative decisions and present their final resolutions in an intellectual manner. It is suggested that students have a digital SLR camera, however it is not required. (Prerequisite: Intermediate Digital Photography and departmental approval)

Fundamentals of Video Production

Grades 9–12, Term I, ½ credit, Fee: $30

Making movies has never been easier technically. No matter what your style or genre, there are core principles and craft skills that we study and practice in this introductory course on storytelling in movies. We develop group projects for film festivals, study masterworks to gather strategies, and put those strategies into action with HD camcording and the Adobe Pro Suite. Students can expect to create one finished short film and one role on a finished group film, with lots of room to grow.

Advanced Video Production

Grades 10–12, Term II, ½ credit, Fee: $30

Moviemaking takes a term to learn, and a lifetime to master. Advanced skills include working with actors, understanding subtext and visual design, and matching craft decisions to story points. Sound design, the other half of moviemaking, gets a closer look. Working with close mentorship and our Adobe Pro Suite workshop, students develop their own projects to build portfolio pieces. (Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Video Production or departmental approval)

The American Film Experience 

Grades 11 & 12, Term I, ½ credit

Students view films of major American directors, including Ford, Hitchcock, Welles, Kubrick, Kazan, Scorsese and others, from the silent era to the present. Films highlight different genres including the gangster film, the western, the musical, film noir and the horror film. Emphasis is on evaluating cinematic technique in relation to plot.

Woodworking

Grades 9 & 10, Term I or Term II,
½ credit, Fee: $30 

This introductory woodworking course is suited to students who have not previously studied woodworking, and will challenge those who have. Students begin by learning the basics of joinery through the building of tool boxes and go on to design and build a piece of furniture of their choosing. Past projects include tables, chairs, and small cabinets. Students use any remaining time to complete a project of their own devising. Students gain extensive experience with a wide range of hand and power tools. The importance of precision is emphasized in every phase of a project.

Architecture 

Grades 9–12, Term I, ½ credit, Fee: $30

Through sketching, model making, class discussion, and viewing images of architecture, students explore elements of architectural design, such as form and mass, site and context, scale and proportion, rhythm and composition, texture and pattern, detail and light. Students then undertake a more formal analysis of building and site by measuring, calculating, and drawing plans, sections, and elevations of a particular building. Finally, students work within given site restrictions and programming requirements to create individual design projects, which they present as drawings and 3D models.

Furniture as Sculpture,
Sculpture as Furniture

Grades 10–12, Term II, ½ credit, Fee: $30

This course introduces students to the basics of furniture making with an emphasis on conceiving of furniture as sculpture. Students learn essential woodworking techniques and joinery using hand and power tools. Wood is the primary medium, but students are also encouraged to utilize recycled materials, found objects, and other non-traditional elements. Projects include the construction of tables, chairs, and other standard furniture pieces, as well as the students’ own more purely sculptural designs. No previous woodworking experience is required.

AP® Art History
[A Global Perspective:
Prehistory to 14th Century]

Grades 11 & 12, Term I, ½ credit
Offered every other year
Next offered 2024–2025

Students examine major forms of artistic expression from ancient times through the Gothic Era from a variety of cultures in the Western world, with a parallel emphasis on non-Western cultures. Emphasis is on learning to see, evaluate, relate, and compare visual forms in architecture, sculpture, and painting. This course counts as an academic course for determining course load.

AP® Art History
[A Global Perspective:
14th Century to 21st Century]

Grades 11 & 12, Term II, ½ credit
Offered every other year
Next offered 2024–2025

Students examine major forms of artistic expression from the Renaissance Era through the present in the Western world, with a parallel emphasis on non-Western cultures. Emphasis is on learning to see, evaluate, relate, and compare visual forms in architecture, sculpture, and painting. This course is a continuation of the Term I AP® Art History course and completes a student’s preparation for the Advanced Placement® Examination in Art History. However, students have the option of taking either course separately. This course counts as an academic course for determining course load.