Courses
Descriptions
Descriptions
Descriptions
6th Grade Visual Art
This course will introduce 6th grade art students to the fundamental techniques, processes and materials used to make two and three- dimensional art. Students will study and understand the elements of art and principles of design. The students will build a foundation in drawing while exploring and practicing with various media and techniques. Students will learn to manage class time while gaining technical proficiency through practice. Students will learn a comprehensive visual vocabulary and demonstrate this in class discussions and self- evaluations. Students will engage in class critiques of their work as well as art historical works. The students will begin to participate in meaningful dialogues about art. Students will benefit from interacting with visiting artists and going on visual art focused field trips.
7th Grade Visual Art
This course focuses on building skill and craftsmanship, learning art history as it relates to vocabulary (techniques and style/ genre), final art production, design, composition and exploring self expression. Students will continue to build a strong drawing foundation in class while practicing art outside of the classroom and exercising their artistic lens. Students will engage in class critiques of their work using learned artistic vocabulary. Students will meet, learn about and interact with visiting artists as well as going on art-focused field trips to gain a well rounded view of contemporary artists and artistic practices.
8th Grade Visual Art
Students will engage in classical and contemporary art-making techniques with emphasis on the understanding of their formal language and the fundamentals of artistic expression. Using a variety of media, - including drawing, painting, printmaking, graphic design, and sculpture, students will learn principles of color theory, composition and critical thinking. Students will learn basic and advanced artmaking skills, the proper use of materials & equipment, and vocabulary. Assignments will emphasize technical skills and articulation of conceptual ideas. Tests and critiques will be used to assess students’ comprehension and progress.
9th Grade Visual Art
This course will introduce beginning art students to the fundamental techniques, processes and materials used to make two and three-dimensional art. The class is designed to introduce the language of drawing to students. Exploring the visual elements of art through drawing exercises and looking at art history, will provide a basis for students when creating work. The knowledge of the art making process will allow the students to make informed decisions and integrate forms and ideas. The students will build a foundation in drawing while exploring and practicing with various media. The students will gain technical skills while developing critical thinking skills. Students will engage in discussions and self -assessment as well as look at art history. They will practice to become effective communicators who participate in meaningful discussions about art.
10th Grade Visual Art
This course will challenge 10th grade art students on formal, technical and conceptual levels. Students will continue to develop their technical skills in 2D and 3D media including focused exploration in drawing, painting and printmaking. Students will further examine the elements of art and principles of design and apply their knowledge to their artwork. Students will learn to manage class time and become self-aware of their individual process and habits in the studio. Students will learn and practice using a comprehensive visual vocabulary demonstrating this in class discussions and self-evaluations. Students will engage in discussions of their work as well as art historical works so they can become effective communicators who participate in meaningful dialogue about art. Students will benefit from visiting artists and visual art-focused outings, including Oakland and SF galleries and museums.
11th Grade Visual Art
Students will engage in classical and contemporary art- making techniques with emphasis on the understanding of their formal language and the fundamentals of artistic expression. Using a variety of media, including drawing, painting, printmaking, graphic design, and sculpture, students will learn principles of color theory, composition and critical thinking skills. Students will learn basic skills, proper use of materials & equipment, and vocabulary. Assignments will emphasize technical skills and articulation of conceptual ideas. Tests and critiques will be used to assess students’ comprehension and progress.
12th Grade Advanced Placement 2-D Studio Art
The 12th Grade Advanced Placement Studio Art course is designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art and wish to develop mastery in the concept, composition, and execution of their ideas. The course follows the AP curriculum and final online submission will be optional (final portfolio STILL required). AP Studio Art is not based on a written exam; instead, students submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year. In building the portfolio, students experience a variety of concepts, techniques, and approaches designed to help them demonstrate their abilities as well as their versatility with techniques, problem solving, and turning their ideas into compelling visual art.