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Visual and Performing Arts

Seventh graders take one semester of arts; eighth graders take two.  Depending on the student's schedule, he or she may choose among courses offered that period in Studio Art, Vocal or Instrumental Music, or Drama.  A student is required to choose at least one semester of studio art and one of a performing art over the two-year period.  (The third semester’s program is his or her choice from among the options available at his/her arts period.)

Studio Art includes instruction in drawing, working with clay, architectural design, and printmaking.  Also included in the course are art history and criticism and aesthetics.  Assignments such as designing a house and having a house designed for you by another student combine drawing skills, design skills, discussions about aesthetics, math skills, and a sensitivity to and appreciation of advertising.  Art history is addressed through a paper which 8^th graders  write about a serious visual artist or craftsperson.  All seventh graders complete a PowerPoint presentation on an artist.

Vocal Music includes instruction in basic music theory and vocal training and sight reading.  Music appreciation and music history are also part of the course, and a paper is required.  All students in the Vocal Music course are required to participate in the Chorus, which is also open to any other interested 7/8 student. Students may also audition for the Chamber Chorus, the Orchestra, or the Handbell Choir.  All of these groups hold major performances during the year.

Instrumental Music is a general music course with an emphasis on instrumental techniques.  Students learn about more advanced topics in reading, writing, solfege, transcribing, theory, and analyzing music.  Instruments are distributed in class for students to learn basic techniques.  Each student creates an original composition using CUBASE and Finale software.  An overview of music history is presented, and each student writes an analysis of a particular work.  No previous musical experience is required.

The 7/8 Drama program fosters a positive self-concept in students by encouraging them to develop imaginative and creative thought.  Utilizing a process-oriented approach, these classes concentrate on the acquisition of communication skills through participation in and reflection on dramatic experiences.  There are opportunities for more extensive extra-curricular work in major dramatic productions at the 7/8 level.