SSFA Course Guide

Dance
Dance as an Alternative to Physical Education - Students in 11th and 12th grade dance classes may fulfill their Physical Education requirement through participation in dance class.

CORE COURSES
INTRODUCTION TO DANCE
(1 credit)
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: None
This course will introduce students to the study and performance of dance and is specifically designed for the beginning dancer. Topics of study include: Jazz, African, Tap, Ballet, and the basic elements of choreography. Students will learn the basic techniques of these dance styles as well as the history and development of these dance styles. The course requires active physical participation as well as written work. Students will be required to wear appropriate loose fitting clothing or dance attire. Participation in performances is also part of the course requirement.

INTRODUCTORY LEVEL
AKOMA
(1/2 credit scheduled on alternating days for the full year)
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: None
Students will be introduced to the study of Afro-Brazilian dance. Topics explored may include: the role of dance in the African and Brazilian cultures, African & Brazilian instruments/songs and the significance of improvisation. Students will learn traditional dances and also explore their own movement ideas. The course requires physical participation as well as written work. Students will be required to wear appropriate loose fitting clothing or dance attire. Participation in performances is also part of the course requirement.

BALLET I
(1 credit)
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: None
This course will provide students an introduction to the study of ballet. Through emphasis of ballet technique and terminology, students will explore the cultural and historical contributions ballet has contributed to the world of dance. Proper dance attire will be required. Students will be required to participate in daily technique classes as well as performances as part of this course.

HIP HOP
(1/2 Credit - scheduled on alternating days for the full year)
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Intro to Dance or Jazz.
This class will focus on the upbeat, street style of Jazz. Topics explored may include: warm-up techniques, isolations, “pop & lock” technique, execution of combinations, the history & development of the Hip Hop culture, & contributors to this dance style. Students must wear loose fitted clothing or proper dance attire. Participation in performances is required

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
JAZZ
(1/2 Credit - scheduled on alternating days for the full year)
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Introduction to Dance or 1 year Jazz training
This course will introduce students to the dance style of Jazz. Students will study styles of Jazz including: Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, and Classical Jazz. Students will also explore the topics of improvisation and solo and group choreography. Students will learn about the history and development of Jazz dance as well as the choreographers and dancers that have contributed to this dance style. Students will be required to wear appropriate loose fitting clothing or dance attire. Participation in performances is also part of the course requirement.

TAP
1 Credit
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12. Prerequisite: Introduction to Dance or 1 year of Tap training
This course will be for beginning Tap students primarily, but students with prior training will be welcome to increase their knowledge of the art form and level of technical proficiency. As students gain a level of technical proficiency, they may explore the use of improvisation in Tap dance. Students will be required to wear appropriate loose fitting clothing or dance attire. Participation in performances is also part of the course requirement.

ADVANCED LEVEL
DANCE CONNECTION
(1 credit)
Open to grades: 9, 10, 11, 12. Prerequisite: Requires an audition for the choreographer.
This performance ensemble is a select group of experienced dancers chosen by audition. Topics explored may include: choreography, performance, anatomy, careers in dance, as well as other topics related to dance. Students will be responsible for choreography, seeking performing opportunities in the community, and taking on the responsibilities of planning a performance. Previous dance experience and participation in performances will be required. Students will be required to wear proper dance attire.

Theatre

CORE COURSE
INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE
(1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11 and 12. Prerequisites: None
Introduction to Theatre will explore basic disciplines of theatre arts ranging from performance, to writing, to designing through the development of a number of original stage presentations throughout year. Learning to collaborate with one’s classmates to create a finished piece is one of the central objectives of this course.

Introductory Level
VIDEO PRODUCTION
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: None.
This course will introduce students to the multiple facets of television production. Content will include writing, shooting, and editing television commercials, creating original promotional advertisements and constructing fast paced music videos. All participants must be willing to work within a team and appear on camera. Completed advertisements will be aired on Public Access Channel 17 (SCS-TV)!

FILM MAKING
(1 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11 and 12. Prerequisites: None
This course will require students to learn about every aspect of producing a short film, including screenwriting, storyboarding, basic shooting techniques, acting and editing. Students will work on different teams to produce short films over the course of the year.

STUDIO 17 – ELECTRONIC NEWS GATHERING
(1/2 credit) (P.I.G Credit)
Prerequisite: Video Production OR Film Making. Open to grades 9, 10, 11, 12.
During this course students will be taught how to create a newscast. Participants will be taught how to determine what is newsworthy within our community, how to shoot, write and edit for news, and how to produce a studio show. All participants must be willing to appear on camera either as a field reporter or as an in-studio anchor. Completed newscasts will be aired on Public Access Channel 17 (SCS-TV)! Meets the Participation in Government, Social Studies requirement.

YOUNG PERSPECTIVES – PUBLIC POLICY DEBATED ON-AIR
(1/2 credit) (P.I.G Credit)
Prerequisite: Video Production OR Film Making. Open to grades 11, 12
During this course students will be taught how to research, analyze and debate current national/international public policy topics. Once the basics of public policy have been learned, students will begin creating a studio episode of Young Perspectives. Each show will feature a host/anchor covering current national/international news and a panel debate between opposing sides of a public policy issue. All participants must been be willing to appear on camera. Completed episodes will be aired on Public Access Channel 17 (SCS-17)! Meets the Participation in Government, Social Studies requirement.

ECON in Action
(1/2 credit) (Economics credit)
Prerequisite: TV Production, ENG, Film Class, OR Young Perspectives.
This unique Economics course will cover the principles of Supply and Demand through an indepth look into the world of real estate investing. Students will shoot, edit and write short video segments explaining basic economic principles as they relate to local and national markets. Mr. Connolly’s “Six Steps to Creating Wealth” will be taught and reinforced through playing Cashflow 101. The entire Consumers, Savers & Investors portion of the course will be video tapped and aired on SCS-TV. Only students with signed press releases should enroll. Meets the Economics requirement.

ACTING I
(1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisites: None. (May be part of an English or a fine arts sequence.)
This course will focus on modern acting theory as developed through the teachings of Constantin Stanislavsky, Richard Boleslavsky, and others. Students will work independently on monologues and exercises as well as present scenes with others in the class. All participants will learn the importance of both giving and receiving constructive criticism. Readings will include Stanislavsky’s An Actor Prepares as well as other technical texts. In addition, students will read a number of classic and contemporary plays that will be chosen for scene work.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
PLAYWRITING
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11 and 12. Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9 or consent of instructor.
Introduction to Playwriting will explore the nature of playwriting through critical analysis and practical application of various playwriting techniques and exercises. The effectiveness of these techniques will be evaluated in both existing theatre literature and student work. It is our goal to provide students with an appreciation and understanding of the process involved with playwriting and the stages of play development. Students will also have the opportunity to work with professional playwrights, as well as seeing and critiquing several performances of professional and Community Theater throughout the semester.

ADVANCED LEVEL
ACTING II
(1 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisites: Acting I. (May be part of an English or a fine arts sequence.)
This course will build upon the skills taught in Acting I, and will provide opportunities for preparing longer scenes. Acting theory will be further developed, and time will be spent refining the critical skills that were introduced in Acting I. Students will prepare several one act plays, and a performance of these works will serve as the culminating activity for the course.

ACTING III
(1 credit)
Open to grades 11 and 12. Prerequisite: Acting II.
The final course in a three level series exploring the art of acting emphasizes advanced development of the voice and body as acting instruments. Students in Actors’ Studio III must be self-motivated and serious about acting in order to benefit from the class as well as make a positive contribution to it. Instruction will include student directed vocal and physical exercises, relaxation techniques, and scene work. Students will work on advanced ensemble acting techniques, monologue performance, script analysis, and learn about the realities of business related to working as a professional actor.

DIRECTING
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11 and 12. Prerequisite: Core Course, Acting I, and Successful Completion of English 9.
Introduction to Directing will provide students with a half credit elective selection or a requirement towards a three to five credit Fine Arts/Theatre focused sequence. When taken in combination with Introduction to Playwriting (either before, after or concurrently), this course offers students the opportunity to apply for Senior Seminar credit in Theatre by proposing and successfully producing and directing a one act play open to the community. This course will explore the nature of directing through critical analysis and practical application of various techniques through student directed scenes from both contemporary and classical drama. This course will provide students with an appreciation and understanding of the role of a director and the evolution of a theatrical production from its initial planning stages to the opening performance. All participants will learn the importance of both giving and receiving constructive criticism. In addition, students will read a number of contemporary and classical plays, as well as a number of theater reviews from The New York Times. The course will culminate with students directing short plays; (either published or unpublished scripts may be submitted to the instructor for approval). Students will also have the opportunity to meet and learn from professional directors, as well as seeing and critiquing several performances of professional and Community Theater throughout the semester.

Fine arts

ADVANCED LEVEL
VISUAL ART PORTFOLIO AND CAREER PREPARATION
(1 credit)
Open to grades 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Visual Arts sequence. Core course and Drawing I. Requires approval of the instructor.
Designed for students who wish to prepare for art schools or other advanced study in the arts. This course will facilitate research into careers, colleges and workshops and assists with portfolio, video, slide and photographic requirements for entry and scholarship opportunities. Students will have assistance with the unique application process, and financial aid and artistic scholarship sources. Concurrently, students will develop an aesthetic foundation in Art History essential for art majors.

FINE ARTS SEMINAR
(2 credits - 1 credit English 12 and 1 credit Fine Arts)
Open to SSFA seniors only. Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Comprehensive English Regents exam.
Designed for Fine Arts majors either in visual art, music, theatre, dance or media arts who wish to independently research topics common to all Fine Arts disciplines. The class may include researching, making class presentations, developing journaling skills, creative problem solving, comments on writings and other artist’s work, and personal reflections. Reading will include fiction and non-fiction works that reflect artistic experiences. Collaboration between students is a key component of this course. This course is ideal for the motivated and creative student who wishes to pursue the fine arts in college.

Music

CORE COURSES
BAND
(1/2 or 1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. May be taken more than one time. Prerequisites: An audition for the band director and/or a recommendation by the Middle School Band Director.
Band is a full year, credit-bearing course that meets daily. It is designed to provide students with a varied large ensemble experience by acquainting students to quality band literature. Students are also provided with a weekly small group lesson where they are given the opportunity to improve their instrumental technique and learn solo and ensemble performing skills. Selected members are invited to combine with string players to form a full orchestra. The band serves the school by means of concerts, assemblies, and appearances .at athletic events. A course requirement for all performing groups including band is participation in all public performances. The quarter grade is determined by 50% lessons, 25% public performance, and 25% quarterly playing exam.

ORCHESTRA
(1/2 or 1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. May be taken more than one time. Prerequisites: Recommendation by the Middle School Orchestra Director and an audition by the director.
The applicant should have mastered the first position. The student should be able to demonstrate traditional bowing techniques, or show promise in developing them. Orchestra meets daily and is a credit bearing class. Weekly small group lessons are provided for students to improve their solo and ensemble instrumental technique. The orchestra program is designed to give the student exposure to all types of literature for string and symphony orchestra. A course requirement for all performing groups including orchestra is participation in all public performances. 25% of the quarter grade is determined by participation in public performances.

MUSIC IN OUR LIVES
(1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Preference is given to 9th graders. Prerequisites: None.
This course focuses on hands-on experiences, which may include the musical use of synthesizers, computers, keyboards, percussion instruments, or other instruments that may be available. Students gain listening skills, composing skills, performing skills as they develop some student driven projects. This course develops a student’s awareness and appreciation for music from many different historical and cultural traditions. Students develop their ability to critique a piece of music for a better understanding of its style, moods, and themes.

PIANO I
(1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: None.
This course is designed to present a beginning high school piano student with group instruction utilizing electronic piano keyboarding experience. The approach will be a chordal approach with application to popular and familiar song material. Students will gain familiarity with key signatures, scales, rhythmic and pitch reading in both the treble and bass clefs. Keyboard ensemble repertoire will also help their musical independence. Students will learn to critique a piece of music for its style and its cultural and historical significance. Students will gain confidence in their performance skills with recitals as their skills develop.

Music Theory
(1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Student should posses a basic ability to read music.
This course is designed to develop a student’s knowledge of music theory. Sight singing, rhythmic reading, notation, major and minor scales, chord construction, elementary harmonization, and ear training are the main areas of concentration. Students will apply their musical knowledge to composing pieces for percussion and pitched instruments. Students will also gain some historical and cultural perspectives of music as they apply their understanding of music theory.

Advanced Music Theory
(1 credit)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Music Theory.
This class is recommended for students interested in pursuing college studies in music. Through analysis, ear training and composition, students will gain an understanding of advanced harmonization, tonality, part writing, texture, form, counterpoint and orchestration. Additionally, students will be introduced to jazz harmony, composition and analysis, as well as basic recording and production techniques.

INTERMEDIATE OPTIONS
JAZZ ENSEMBLE
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. May be taken more than one time. Prerequisite: Requires an audition for the band director.
This course is designed to acquaint students to the “Big Band Sound” both from the historical and contemporary viewpoint. With the exception of pianist, guitarist and vocalist, the members of the Jazz Ensemble are selected from participants in the Band. The Jazz Ensemble performs throughout the school and community and requires significant time commitments by its members. The Jazz Ensemble competes annually. The band director will determine the time for rehearsals - generally zero hour. The director reserves the right to make personal changes at any time during the school year. Credit will be awarded at the end of the year upon successful completion.

DRUMMING
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. No previous music experience required, but will require the commitment of students both during school and after school for performances.
Students will learn and perform the art of drumming as used by a variety of cultures including African, Brazilian, Cuban, and Native American using a variety of percussion instruments that may include congos, timbales, tubane, dhambe, tabla, dumbek, udu, and djembe drums. Weekly small group lessons will be provided during the school day using a pull out model as in other instrumental lessons. Zero hour times may be possible to arrange with the teaching staff. Students will be required to perform at Sayles School of Fine Arts (SSFA) performances and students will play an active accompanying role with other SSFA programs such as the dance program. Up to 1/2 credit elective music may be awarded based on the level of time committed as recommended by the teacher at the end of the year. Does not meet the one credit core requirement.

VOICE SEMINAR I
(1/2 credit- alternating days all year)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: None
Students will develop their vocal technique and repertoire for the solo voice such as breathing, articulation, resonance and expression. Students should also expect to use different languages, singing duets, trios and quartets. With the class acting as audience members, each student will perform soloistically on a regular basis.

PIANO II
(1 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Piano I or permission of the instructor.
Piano students will improve their technique, music reading skills and increase their repertoire at the piano. Students will expand their understanding of compound meter and more advanced music reading. They will gain a broader understanding of styles of music as well as the cultural and historical significance of a variety of types of music. Students will participate in recitals to develop their performance skills on the piano.

WOMEN’S CHORUS
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. May be taken more than one time. Prerequisite: Requires an audition for the director.
This ensemble will concentrate on literature written and arranged for the treble voices from renaissance to rock and Broadway. Performance demands include four major school concerts as well as opportunities in the community. 25 percent of the quarter grade is determined by participation in public performances.

CHAMBER MUSIC
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. May be taken more than one time.
Prerequisite: Audition for staff required.
Vocal and instrumental students will explore duets, trios, quartets, quintets, etc. in a variety of combinations in order to better understand the composition and performance demands of various composers. A NYSSMA performance or recital will be the final assessment. Credit will be awarded at the end of the year upon successful completion.

IB MUSIC
(1 Credit)
IB music is a unique course offering that introduces the high school music student to college level music classes. Although much of the class is performance based, the focus of performance narrows to that of solo literature and the area of study expands to include music theory, analysis through listening, composition, and musical investigation. This course is offered at both standard and higher levels and fulfills the elective requirement for an IB diploma.

ADVANCED OPTIONS
WIND ENSEMBLE
(1/2 or 1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. May be taken more than one time. Prerequisite: Requires an audition for the band director.
The goal of this group is a more advanced band repertoire. This course is designed for the student with advanced reading and instrumental techniques. A course requirement for all performing groups including wind ensemble is participation in all public performances. Quarter grade is determined by 50 percent lessons, 25 percent public performance, 25 percent quarter’s exam.

VOICE SEMINAR II
(1/2 credit- alternating all year)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Voice I
This course will have a repertoire that is more advanced than Voice Seminar I. Students will continue working on technique and performing opportunities will continue. A NYSSMA performance or recital will be the final assessment.

Serenaders
(1/2 credit- alternating all year)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: An audition for the conductor
Serenaders is a select choral group that performs music of various styles from classical to popular. Membership is dependant on an audition where students need to show good musicianship. Since performing at civic events, concerts and competitions are part of this choral experience students are expected to show responsibility and good attitude. Attendance at sectionals and performances is essential.

CHAMBER CHOIR
(1/2 credit- alternating all year)
(Previously known as Madrigals) Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: An audition for the conductor
Chamber Choir is a select choral group of 20-27 singers. They specialize in a cappella arrangements of various styles ranging from the Renaissance to jazz and pop tunes. Membership is dependant on an audition where students need to show sight reading abilities, musical independence and good musicianship. Students in this group must also be members of Symphonic Choir. Attendance at sectional rehearsals and the various performances throughout the year is essential.

Show Choir
(1/2 credit or 1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: None
Show Choir is open to all students who have an interest in singing. It is designed to help students develop skills such as pitch matching, harmonization, vocal production, sight reading and musical interpretation. Inspirational Choir performs a variety of musical styles including gospel, pop, jazz, and traditional. Concert attendance is part of students’ quarterly grade.

VOICE SEMINAR III
(1/2 credit- alternating all year)
Open to grades 11 and 12. Prerequisite: Voice Seminar II
This course will be a continuation of Voice Seminar II. Students will be expected to perform in recitals, at civic events, and at a NYSSMA festival for adjudication. This course is a must for vocal majors.

PIANO III
(1 credit)
Open to grades 11, 12. Prerequisite: Piano I and Piano II or permission of instructor
The Piano III course is a continuation of Piano II including demanding piano repertoire and study of different styles and historical periods of music. Students will participate in several piano performances in school and in the community. Students will explore more complex choral structure and music analysis.

PIANO IV
(1 credit)
Open to grade 12.
Prerequisite: Piano I, II, and III or permission of the instructor
This is the advanced piano class. Students concentrate on more advanced repertoire and more demanding piano performance requirements, including ensemble playing. Students expand reading to all types of piano literature and all historical periods and styles.

INDEPENDENT ADVANCED MUSIC
(1/2 or 1 credit)
Open to grades 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Requires the permission of the SSFA House Principal and the instructor involved.
This course is intended for advanced study in a specific music discipline allowing senior music sequence students to continue their growth beyond the courses available in the music program. The student will meet with the teacher with whom they will plan, implement, and evaluate their experiences and creative focus. This course is not intended for a student whose schedule cannot accommodate a regular class. It is intended to meet the needs of highly advanced students that have exceeded the classes offered in the music program.

Visual Arts

CORE COURSES
STUDIO IN ART
(1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisites: None.
Studio in Art is an introduction to the high school art program designed to help the student discover why and how art is made. Aesthetics, art criticism, and art history (both western and non-western) are integrated with the development of concepts based on the elements of art and principles of design. Two-dimensional activities may include drawing, painting, printmaking, collage and lettering using a variety of media. Three dimensional design projects include a variety of materials such as cardboard, paper mache, clay, plaster, etc in construction of spatial structures. Art appreciation and/or historical references are integrated into each activity to expand how a student observes, critiques, and enjoys art.

MYTHS AND LEGENDS
(1 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisites: None.
Myths and Legends’ serves as an introduction to the high school art program giving students a solid foundation in the elements and principles of design while focusing on an understanding of all cultural archetype. The arts are merged around a core of cultural units, which may include the following: Greek-Roman, Native American, African, Asian, Norse, South American, and Australian. Students examine the myths, legends, fairy tales, and visual arts, related to a particular theme and create two and three-dimensional art inspired by their research with attention to aesthetics and art criticism. A variety of activities and media are explored throughout the year allowing students to develop a visual vocabulary and appreciation of the arts. All students will be required to take the core final exam.

INTRODUCTORY LEVEL
INTRODUCTION TO DRAWING
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Student must have completed or be enrolled in a core course.
This is an introductory drawing course, which focuses on the visual understanding of the environment (figures, still life, natural forms, perspective, etc.) as a tool to allow the student to interpret accurately and creatively. This course focuses on developing observational drawing skills. Students will draw in a variety of media, which may include pencil, brush & ink, pen & ink, charcoal, conte crayon, pastels, and marker. This course is a basic preparation for all intermediate and advanced art classes. Students will critique their work as well as the work of others. Art historical references will be used throughout.

INTRODUCTION TO CERAMICS
(1/2 credit) (3D Option)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Student must have completed or be enrolled in a core course.
This is an introduction to the art of hand building using three basic techniques: Pinch, coil, and slab. This course will include some cultural and historical aspects of ceramics from ancient times to contemporary. Preparation of clay, shaping, molding, decorating techniques, and application of underglazes and glazes will be explored.

COLOR AND DESIGN
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9,10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Student must have completed or be enrolled in a core course.
This course will focus on the elements and principles of design as well as color theory. Concepts will include line, form, color, texture, space, movement, and composition as they relate to problems in design. Materials may include pen & ink, watercolor, pencil, tempera paint, airbrush, cut paper and markers. This course is basic preparation for all intermediate and advanced art classes. Students will critique their work as well as others. Art historical references will be used throughout.

INTRO TO SCULPTURE
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Student must have completed or be enrolled in a core course.
This semester course allows the student to explore a variety of small-scale sculpture projects, using a variety of media. Students will learn design fundamentals using clay, paper and paper mache, wire, and wood. An assortment of sculptural styles will be explored, emphasizing those from varying cultures. Other concepts that result in visually satisfying sculptures will also be explored.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER ART
(1/2 credit)
Open to grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Student must have completed or be enrolled in a core course.
This course is an introduction to the use of a computer as a tool for making art. Drawing, painting, illustration, design, and page layout will be explored through the use and knowledge of several software programs. Students will develop problem-solving skills as they find unique solutions to creative problems. Scanners, quick cam, light board, and digital cameras may be explored.

CRAFTS DESIGN
(1/2 Credit)
Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Crafts are unique in that they merge form and function to yield solutions that are both beautiful and practical. This course will present an overview of craft technique. Objects will be created with both the inherent qualities of the materials and techniques and the function of the objects in mind. Students will manipulate paper, fibers, clay and metal to design and create their work. Among other items, they may create jewelry, pottery, and weavings. Students will look at how crafts influence both the products we use on a daily basis and the artwork we find displayed in our museums. Students will also hear about the history of crafts from the Industrial Revolution, to the Arts and Crafts Movement, to Art Nouveau and the Bauhaus.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
DRAWING I
(1 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Visual Art Core Course or recommendation of an art teacher.
Drawing I will be an exploration of techniques and materials as well as perceptual skills and creative ideas. Various drawing materials such as pencil, colored pencil, charcoal, pastel, pen & ink, and conte crayon may be explored. Drawing from observation including self-portraits, still lifes and figure studies will be emphasized. Students will be encouraged to develop personal expressions and experimental processes. Contemporary and historical references will be fundamental to the course. Students will learn an art vocabulary. This course will include personal and group evaluation techniques using the critique process.

DRAWING AND PAINTING
(1 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Visual Art Core Course and Drawing I or recommendation of an art teacher.
Drawing and Painting is a further exploration of drawing and painting media. It includes an exploration of the use of color and the techniques of painting. It bridges the gap between drawing and painting. It will include some advanced drawing concepts and techniques including mixed media with emphasis on the human form. It also is intended to assist students working toward a college portfolio for admission. Students will draw and paint with visual references. Students will critique their work as well as the work of others. Art historical references will be used throughout.

COMPUTER ART AND ELECTRONIC IMAGING I
(1 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Visual Art Core Course or recommendation of an art teacher.
This course utilizes the computer as a tool in creating artwork. Drawing, painting, illustration, graphic design, animation, and video will be explored through the use and knowledge of several software programs. Color theory as it applies to computers will be explored. Devices such as scanners, digital cameras, quick cams, and light boards may be used. Students will create unique visual images to solve problems using a computer as their artist’s tool.

CERAMICS I
(1 credit) (3D Option)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Visual Art Core Course or recommendation of an art teacher.
Ceramics I will continue with hand building techniques and begin to apply the knowledge of these techniques to more developed assignments that will include pinch, coil and slab techniques as well as a variety of surface techniques. Assignments may include jewelry, sculptural forms and construction pieces. Students will be encouraged to create a body of work that focuses on a concentration area for the second half of the year. This course will also reference cultural and historical aspects of ceramics. Some wheel throwing may be demonstrated and explored.

SCULPTURE I
(1 credit)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Visual Art Core Course or recommendation of an art teacher.
This full year class allows the student to have in-depth study of sculptural concepts and techniques through a variety of extensive materials workshops. Both additive and subtractive processes will be pursued in this problem-solving learning approach. Students will have an opportunity to work individually and in teams with concrete, metal, foam, plaster, wood, clay, and found objects. Students can expect to create abstract and realistic sculpture of large scale and permanence.

ADVANCED OPTIONS
VISUAL ART PORTFOLIO AND CAREER PREPARATION
(1 credit)
Open to grades 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Visual Arts sequence. Core course and Drawing I. Requires approval of the instructor.
Designed for students who wish to prepare for art schools or other advanced study in the arts. This course will facilitate research into careers, colleges and workshops and assists with portfolio, video, slide and photographic requirements for entry and scholarship opportunities. Students will have assistance with the unique application process, and financial aid and artistic scholarship sources. Concurrently, students will develop an aesthetic foundation in Art History essential for art majors.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT DRAWING
(1 credit)
Open to grades 11, and 12. Prerequisites: Core Course and Drawing I. Drawing and Painting recommended. Requires portfolio review and the approval of the instructor.
This course is for highly motivated art students to work at the college level in drawing while still in high school. The final assessment in AP Drawing is a portfolio (not a written exam) of approximately 40 pieces at the end of the school year. The portfolio includes three sections: quality, concentration and breadth. Advanced Placement work requires significantly more time and commitment than most high school courses. To apply for AP credit the student must pay a $75.00 fee for the portfolio evaluation. Students that do not apply for college credit still receive high school credit. This course is an excellent course for those students that want to develop their portfolio for college admission in the visual arts.

SCULPTURE II
(1 credit)
Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisites: Core course, Sculpture I, approval of instructor
This full-year course allows the student to pursue sculptures related to the human form. Using primarily clay, students will create a series of figure sculptures, head sculptures, and sculptural anatomy studies. Beyond the sculptural concepts learned in Sculpture I, students will explore issues of pose, proportion and expression. Students can also expect to learn about the history of figure sculpture and develop figure drawing skills. Students in this class must be highly motivated and be able to work independently.

INDEPENDENT ADVANCED STUDIO
(1/2 or 1 credit)
Open to grades 11, and 12. Prerequisite: Requires the permission of the SSFA House Principal and the instructor involved.
This course is intended for advanced study in a specific art discipline allowing senior art sequence students to continue their growth beyond the courses available in the art program. The student will meet with the teacher with whom they will plan, implement, and evaluate their experiences and creative focus. This course is not intended for a student whose schedule cannot accommodate a regular class. It is intended to meet the needs of highly advanced students that have exceeded the classes offered in the visual art program.

COMPUTER ART AND ELECTRONIC IMAGING II
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisites: Core course and Computer Art and Electronic Imaging I.
This course focuses on specialized and advanced techniques in using the computer to create one’s own artwork In depth studies in digital painting, animation, three dimensional rendering, and video will be explored through the use of software, hardware and peripherals made specifically for the computer literate artist.

Sayles School of Fine Arts English Course Offerings
Fine Arts Seminar
Sayles School of Fine Arts Foreign Language Course Offerings
Spanish Culture 2 and the Arts
Spanish Culture 3 and the Arts
Spanish Culture 4 and the Arts
French Culture 2 and the Arts

Sayles School of Fine Arts Social Studies Course Offerings
Young Perspectives
Studio 17 - Electronic News Gathering
Econ in Action
For course descriptions please see the individual department sections.

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