Visual + Performing Arts Courses

  • Art I

    This is an introductory course in the theories and practices of creating art. Students learn to skillfully express their ideas and feelings through a foundation in practical techniques, aesthetics, and art history. Additional emphasis is placed upon the use of the elements of design (shape, line, texture, value, color, form, space, and balance) in creating interesting composition. Art works are completed in a wide variety of materials such as pencil, charcoal, pastel, pen and ink, mixed media, watercolor, acrylic, and clay. The first semester provides a strong foundation in black and white drawing and shading skills, while the second semester is mainly about using color. Projects include a range of styles such as Realism, Expressionism, Impressionism, and Pop Art, in the forms of landscape, still life, portrait, figure, and genre.Successful Completion: Meets ten units per year of the Visual/ Performing Arts graduation requirement.

    • Grades:9-12
    • Units:10
    • UC Requirements: Refer to chart at end of section
    • CSU Requirements: Fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • Prerequisites: None. Recommended for all students interested in taking other arts courses. Required for Art II and Art III.
  • Art II/ III

    This course is designed for the serious art student who has completed Art I and II. It involves in-depth exploration of the principles of design in drawing, painting, and sculpture, in addition to advanced composition theory (modern, classical, and the rule of thirds). Lessons are structured to meet Advanced Placement (AP) portfolio credit. However, due to the large number of works and the personal development of style required to meet AP standards, students who wish to pursue AP Art do so on a voluntary basis beyond the scope of this class. It is recommended that students serious about pursuing AP Art take this class for two years consecutively. The last quarter of the year each student develops an individualized plan of emphasis and works to develop the portfolio of work begun in Art II. Upon completion of this course, students will have developed a slide portfolio, resume, and personal statement to be used in college and career applications.Successful Completion: Meets ten units per year of the Visual/ Performing Arts graduation requirement.

    • Grades:11-12
    • Units:10
    • UC Requirements: Refer to chart at end of section
    • CSU Requirements: Fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • Prerequisites: Art I and Art II or instructor approval based upon student art portfolio.
  • Beginning Guitar

    This course is a year-long course designed for the student who is new to the guitar or the experienced guitarist who would like to learn to read music. Basic guitar technique will be taught with an emphasis on note reading and chord recognition. Instruction will occur in both group and individual formats. Students will be expected to practice material outside of class on a regular basis. In-class activities include group lessons, playing tests, written work and quizzes, and independent practice.

    • Grades:9-12
    • Units:5 or 10
    • Prerequisites: None
  • Chamber Singers

    Vocal music ensemble studies, performs, and analyzes vocal literature from all musical periods. There are required performances throughout the school year.

    • Grades:9-12
    • Units:10
    • UC Requirements:Full year fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • CSU Requirements: Fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • Prerequisites: One year completion of Concert Choir. Audition required.
  • Concert Band

    Students experience, in a professional atmosphere, rehearsals, sight reading, concerts and other public appearances, public relations, poise and attitude. They learn to perfect and retain self-motivation and discipline.

    • Grades:9-12
    • Units:10
    • UC Requirements: Full year fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • CSU Requirements: Fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • Prerequisites: Beginning Band or one or more years of playing experience. Confirm with instructor before signing up.
  • Concert Choir

    This course will introduce students to the art of choral singing. Emphasis will be on vocal production, music theory, and music history. Students will perform choral music of various styles and periods. Required performances will occur throughout the year.

    • Grades:9-12
    • Units:10
    • CSU Requirements: Fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • Prerequisites:None.
  • Dance I

    This is a basic dance class for those who want to learn dance techniques and choreography. A variety of dance styles will be studied: Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Ethnic Dance, Ballroom, and Modern; along with dance history. Two semesters or more will prepare a student for Introduction to Dance Company. Course may be repeated up to four semesters.

    • Grades:9-12
    • Units:5-10
    • UC Requirements:Refer to chart at end of section.
    • CSU Requirements:Fulfills V/P Arts Requirement
    • Prerequisites:None
  • Drama I

    • Grades:10
    • Units:10
    • UC Requirements: 10
    • CSU Requirements: 10
    • Prerequisites: 10
  • Jazz / Stage Band

    • Music Lab

      • Orchestra

        • Photography II

          Photo

          • Grades:10
          • Units:10
          • UC Requirements: 10
          • CSU Requirements: 10
          • Prerequisites: 10

        Visual + Performing Arts Staff