ART

The process of learning and creating is as important as the end product. The art program provides a unique learning environment where the individual can explore art materials, concepts and skills enhancing his/her own natural abilities. The joyful playfulness of art materials as well as the multifaceted possibilities of art media and disciplines is emphasized.

The development of a new way of seeing is encouraged, i.e., an awareness of the artfulness that exists in the world. By developing skills of visualization, the student learns to see more vivid forms, textures, colour, lines, shadows and shapes.

The program encourages independence as students assume responsibility for their own commitment to their art. Students connect with a more significant and meaningful involvement with learning and with the art process. As a project-centered approach, students are often presented a theme with a choice of media to use for completing assignments. The teacher provides information and knowledge about the styles and media possible to this end. Students’ ideas and interest with art projects are included in the curriculum.

The program provides a variety of hands-on activities in a positive learning environment. Since socialization is an important part of the art process, an understanding of cooperative artistic learning and play in the classroom is maintained. There is also an emphasis on preparation and care of materials.

A wide range of materials are available within the program including ceramics (3 potter’s wheels, kiln and various tools); acrylic, tempera and watercolour paints; various drawing materials (pencil, ink, oil & soft pastel, charcoal) and textiles. There is also facility for linoleum and silkscreen printmaking.

Art 10 (academic, 1 credit)

Looking at art from the mid-1800s to pre-World War I basic skills, attitudes and aptitudes are encouraged and developed through different aspects of the visual arts. Students work towards gaining expertise in watercolour, figure drawing and figure sculpture, as well as found-object sculpture, book arts and further drawing skills. Sources and instruction regarding art history are incorporated with reference to individual work in progress. Impressionism, the Group of Seven, First Nations art and Cubism are investigated and experienced through related assignments. Students keep a sketchbook outside of class as part of the overall class requirements.

Art 11 (academic, 1 credit)

Looking at art from post-World War II to the 1950s, students investigate cubism, fauvism, surrealism and abstract expressionism through a variety of hands-on assignments. Learning how to abstract as well as looking at period artists and their work is also incorporated through drawing, painting, ceramics and sculpture projects. Students keep a sketchbook outside of class as part of the overall class requirements.

Art 12 (academic, 1 credit)

Reviewing art from the 1950s to the present, students continue to experience and expand their knowledge about the various art processes and techniques. Abstract expressionism, Pop-Art, minimalism as well as other contemporary art is studied and experienced through drawing, painting, and sculpture. Final projects and presentations are part of the final term grade. Students keep a sketchbook outside of class as part of the overall class requirements..

DRAMA

Drama 10 (academic, 1 credit)

This course is designed to introduce students to drama and theatre arts, beginning with in-class exercises to develop concentration, self-awareness, imagination, openness and sensitivity. It will include improvisation, work with scripted plays, playwriting and attendance of several performances outside the school. This course will have class inclusion within the 7-9 program and culminate in public performances.

Drama 11 (academic, 1 credit)

This course continues the work of Drama 10 and includes independent contract work on the history and development of drama, ensemble groups, set design, technical support, as well as directing skills.

Drama 12 (academic, 1 credit)

This course continues with the work done in Drama 11.

MUSIC

Music 10, 11, and 12 (academic, 1 credit)

Students participate in the Performance Ensemble on an instrument or voice. They should also be participating in private music lessons on their chosen instrument. The ensemble will prepare works in a variety of styles, including pop, rock, jazz, blues and world music for performance.