Arts

The Art of Performance:  Introduction to Vocal Techniques & Music Theory 

One semester

In this course, fifth-grade students delve into the world of music and discover the fundamentals of vocal techniques. Our comprehensive curriculum includes instruction on proper breathing, enunciation, and singing habits, as well as a basic understanding of music theory and personal presentation strategies. Through practical application, our students hone their skills and create captivating spoken and sung performance art, showcasing their newfound abilities to the world. 

Exploring Visual Art: An Introduction to Design Concepts & Art History 

One semester

In this course, students will be introduced to a wide variety of art materials and techniques, from drawing and painting to ceramics and more. Along with learning practical skills, students will also study design concepts and global art history. Through experimentation and exploration, students will develop their observation and imagination skills, make creative choices, and learn from their mistakes. Students will also have the opportunity to reflect on their work, with the goal of evolving their artistic abilities throughout the semester. 

Performing Arts Ensemble: Foundations of Theatre, Voice, and Movement 

One semester

In this immersive performance skills class, students study theatre, spoken word art, and develop effective singing, speaking, and dance techniques. Throughout the semester, students collaborate to design, produce, and perform a holiday concert. Students explore all aspects of performance from the perspectives of performer, director, producer, and costume designer. This course cultivates individual creativity while emphasizing the importance of working as a cohesive ensemble. At the end of the semester, students showcase their skills and artistic talents in a culminating concert.  

Exploring Art and Creativity: A Journey Through Design 

One semester

In this course, sixth-grade students dive into the world of visual art, where they discover and explore various art materials and techniques. Along with learning about the history and cultural significance of art around the world, students develop an understanding of design concepts such as composition, color theory, and form. Through daily hands-on art-making, students improve their skills of observation and imagination, as well as develop the confidence to make creative choices. Furthermore, students are encouraged to critically reflect upon their work, allowing them to better understand their artistic process and growth. 

Introduction to Ceramics 

One semester

In this introductory course, students explore the exciting world of ceramic art. Through a variety of hand-building techniques and experiences on the potter's wheel, students will develop an understanding of the various stages of clay development, planning, construction, glazing, and firing. They will create both functional and decorative clay forms, and learn to analyze their own work as well as the work of others. Through written reflections and art-centered conversations, students will develop an appreciation for the principles of form, function, texture, and balance in ceramic art. 

Introduction to Creative Writing 

One semester | Please note this course is offered on a rotating basis. 

In this semester-long course, students will unleash their creative writing voices. Expanding on the writing skills they’ve developed in their English and writing classes, students will explore the writing process across a variety of creative modes. Students will help construct this workshop-style course through model selection and genre prioritization. While the course will focus on process, feedback, and iteration, it will also include publication and/or performance elements in order to share and celebrate the work of the students. Publication/ performance modes may include blogs, slam style events, or participation in Write the World competitions. 

The Art of Public Speaking 

One semester | Please note this course is offered on a rotating basis. 

In this course, students will learn the art of effective public speaking and develop the confidence and poise necessary to engage and captivate audiences. The curriculum emphasizes practical communication skills that are relevant to real-life scenarios. Through a variety of projects, students will refine their vocal techniques, including proper vocal health and anatomy. The projects for this class involve prepared opportunities for practicing public speaking. Planned projects may include, but are not limited to, formal introductions, reading aloud to a large audience, storytelling, dramatic monologues, debate skills, and poetry recitation. 

Foundations of Studio Art

One semester

This course immerses students in the process of creating art and provides them with the opportunity to explore and experiment with different media. Students develop foundational skills in drawing and painting by examining the Elements and Principles of Art and Design. Alongside hands-on artmaking, students contextualize their work within the broader framework of art history, current cultural trends, and global concerns. Through the study of diverse sources of artistic inspiration, students gain confidence in their creative abilities, and incorporate feedback to refine and enhance their work. 

Glee

Chamber Choir

Beginning Handbells

Advanced Handbells

Topics in Music History

Theater Arts Production

Dance: Technique

This course is offered every other school year. It will be offered again in the 2024-2025 school year.

Students in this course will experience multiple forms of dance through their history, movement vocabulary, and works of choreography. Forms may include Modern/Contemporary, Ballet, Hip Hop, West African, and others. While exploring these forms, students will develop confidence, body awareness, and performance skills, and will have opportunities to choreograph their own works. The material in Dance: Technique is suitable for students with any level of previous dance experience or none, from first-time beginners to advanced dancers! This course satisfies the prior dance experience prerequisite to choreograph for DanceFest.

Dance: The Creative Process

This class is offered in alternate years. It will be offered next in the 2023-24 school year. 

Students in this course will experience multiple forms of dance through an exploration of the creative process. Over the semester, students will build foundational skills in choreography using movement vocabulary from Modern/Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Jazz, and other forms of dance. Students will develop confidence in movement improvisation and create short solo works, big group dances, and everything in between! No prior dance experience necessary; the material can be tailored to any level of dance background. This course satisfies the prior dance experience prerequisite to choreograph for DanceFest.

Drawing and Painting I

One Semester

Drawing and Painting II

Studio Art I

Studio Art II

Creative Arts I 

Creative Arts II 

One Semester

This course is the second level of Creative Arts. Students will continue to explore different mediums including printmaking, sewing, weaving, painting and paper arts to build their 2-D and 3D works. We will focus on larger projects where students can continue to use their creative thinking skills to make well-crafted pieces in response to fun artistic challenges. We will study the work of international contemporary artists and use their inspiration to build our own expressive solutions. Students will work both collaboratively and independently as they practice remaking, revising and envisioning their own new creations.

Ceramics I 

Ceramics II 

Ceramics III

Sacred Art