Curriculum > Visual and Performing Arts Department
Visual and Performing Arts Departments
Art 1A
Prerequisite: None 7th and 8th grade Semester
Art 1A is a beginning-level course in which students will develop basic skills and an understanding of art-making and creative expression, aesthetic valuation, the historical and cultural context of art, and studio habits of mind. The Elements and Principles of Art and Design serve as a foundation for the class. Assignments will be in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media, including drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture. The class will touch upon each strand of the California State standards for Art Education.
Art 1B
Prerequisite: Art 1A 7th and 8th grade Semester
Art 1B is a class that will be taken by students who have successfully completed Art 1A and wish to continue in art. Students will work to increase their skills and understanding of art-making and creative expression, aesthetic valuation, the historical and cultural context of world art, and studio habits of mind. The Elements and Principles of Art and Design serve as a foundation for the class. Assignments will be in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media, including drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture, as well as more challenging materials. Students should be prepared to do work such as sketching outside of class time.
Drama 1A
Prerequisite: None 7th and 8th grade Semester
Drama 1A is a beginning theater course that will encourage students to develop communication and performance skills, self-confidence, and the ability to work well with others. Projects include group and solo pantomimes, improvisational scene work, character study, short monologues, writing and performing scenes, and producing scripted scenes. Training in blocking, movement, costuming, properties, stage management and other technical aspects of theater will also be introduced. Very little outside rehearsal time is required. There will be one evening performance for students to present some of their work for families and friends.
Drama 1B
Prerequisite: Drama 1A 7th and 8th grade Semester
Drama 1B is an advanced drama study for those motivated students who wish to continue developing their theater skills through more sophisticated and challenging activities and performances. Students may repeat this class if desired, as the curriculum will change each semester depending on enrollment and class experiences, but will always include frequent opportunities for classroom performance and a final production for the school community as well as family and friends. Some after-school rehearsals will be required.
Coursework may include mime, storytelling, audition monologues, improvisation and theatre sports, the production of short plays, Shakespearean scene-work, student-directed one acts, advanced scene study and character analysis, short student written and directed video pieces, and mask work. "Backstage" training may include: directing, costume, stage and make-up design, choreography and stage movement, stage management, and other technical aspects of theater. Field trips and/or guest speakers will enhance the students' experience.
Music
Band
7th and 8th grade Year
Concert Band and Symphonic Band are composed of students who have previously studied a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. Both of the bands perform at formal concerts, the May Fete parade, and travel to the elementary schools to perform assembly programs. Other music concerts and activities are available during the year. Small ensemble experiences are encouraged for all students.Placement in the appropriate band will be made by the middle school band directors based on such criteria as: recommendation of the 6th grade music teacher, audition by middle school teachers, and the instrument the student plays.
In both Concert and Symphonic Band students will expand their knowledge and skills of basic music fundamentals, such as key signatures, rhythm patterns, and tone quality. Music studied will be drawn from various periods and cultures reflecting our global heritage. By the end of the year, students will become acquainted with classical, popular, rock, and jazz music.
Choir
7th and 8th grade Year or Semester
This class is for students who love to sing! Choir students will develop and improve their voices, learn to read music, and perform together in a cooperative, supportive environment. The choir will perform a wide variety of choral music, including classical, multi-cultural, popular, jazz, and Broadway. There will be opportunities for solo and ensemble singing for those who are interested. The choir will perform in concerts, elementary school tours, and other events in the community.The orchestra is designed to further the string student's ability with emphasis on note reading, fingering, bowing, and rhythm. Much attention is given to intonation, playing with expression, and the reading and learning of as much music literature as possible. Important goals are improved sight-reading, playing skills and playing techniques.
Orchestra
7th and 8th grade YearPerformance and the discipline of performance are necessary parts of the course. Formal and informal concerts and performances for special event assemblies, and tours to different schools are included as a valuable part of the orchestra experience. Ensemble and solo playing are also encouraged. Other music activities are available throughout the year.
Part of the
Palo Alto Unified School District
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