Visual & Performing Arts

Visual & Performing Arts

Castro Valley High School graduation requirement is one year of Visual or Performing Arts.  CSU/UC requirement is one year of two consecutive semesters of the same visual or performing art.

Visual Arts

Graphic Design

Full year course, 10 units, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: None

Description: In this class students will explore elements and principles of design through a variety of media.  They will develop skills in artistic perception, critiquing, and design strategies through projects that emphasize analyzing and solving visual art problems.  Through a study of the history of design, students will be exposed to the evolving theoretical and practical aspects of design.

Animation

Full year course, 10 units, grades 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This class focuses on the aesthetic, historical, and production aspects of animation.  Storytelling, composition, and art criticism, as well as the production of animated drawings and computer generated images.  Short projects will emphasize all aspects of the production process, from initiating ideas through the completion and screening of animated short movies.  Critical viewing skills will be developed through the study of animation techniques and themes in a variety of 2D and 3D animated works.

Advanced Graphic Design

Full year course, 10 units, grades 11-12

Prerequisites: Must have a “C” or better in Graphic Design.

Description: In this class, students will further develop their design skills through in-depth study of the elements and principles of design and focus on individual work.  Students will use a variety of media, combining traditional art methods and computer-based media to explore real-world design applications.  Students will expand skills in artistic perception, critiquing, and design strategies through projects that emphasize analyzing and solving visual art problems.  The history of graphic design, contemporary designers and career options will be emphasized.

AP Art History   (See also Art History 1-2)

Full year course, 10 units, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: Please see page 9 for application process.

Description: This course is taught concurrently with Art History (see description) but differs in that it will prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Exam in Art History. In addition to the regular Art History course requirements, the AP student must be prepared to complete written assignments, and conduct research at the college level.  Students enrolled in this course are expected to take the national Advanced Placement Exam in Art History.

Art History   (See also AP Art History)

Full year course, 10 units, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course surveys the rich history of human artistic expression from ancient civilizations to post-modern cultures.  Art History offers students the opportunity to travel the world through visual study of great archaeological discoveries, architectural achievements, and artistic masterpieces found in today’s museums.

Beginning Studio Art

Full year course, 10 units, grades 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Beginning Studio Art is a survey course investigating the fundamental aspects of color and design through a variety of drawing and painting media.  Subject matter includes portraiture, figures, perspective, and still lives.  The elements of art and principles of design are emphasized. The course also includes art history and appreciation. No experience is needed.  Written work is assigned.

Figure and Fashion

Full year course, 10 units, grade 9-12

Prerequisites: Beginning Studio Art recommended but not required.

Description: Figure and Fashion Design will teach students about the history, purpose, context, aesthetics, creation and applications of fashion design through a variety of assignments, activities, and projects. Students will demonstrate their understanding and apply their knowledge through a range of two-dimensional works that will express design purpose and showcase a growing set of technical skills related to drawing, painting and designing fashions and accessories. A large portion of the class will focus on rendering the human figure. Written assignments and presentations are required.

Advanced Studio Art

Full year course, 10 units, repeatable, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: Students must have received a "C" or better in Beginning Studio Art.

Description: This second year of art offers advanced instruction in drawing, painting, and design through traditional techniques and materials.  This course is designed to enhance technical skills through broad assignments which encourage individuality.  Students will learn about different types of art styles and work on developing their own.  They will also be encouraged to organize an art portfolio and use it for career and college applications.  The course will also include art history and art appreciation.  Written work will be assigned.

AP Studio Art, Drawing

Full year course, 10 units, grades 11-12

Prerequisites: Instructor approval based on portfolio review or teacher recommendation.

Description: This course emphasizes individual expression, deepening artistic practice and development of mastery in specific areas of art-making, including concept, composition, drawing, painting and design. Students enrolled in this course will build on existing art-making skills (students enrolling in AP Studio Art generally have taken at least one art class prior to entry into the AP program) as they further develop their personal artistic voice, problem solving skills and understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. Students will engage in individual and peer critiques and write reflectively about their art-making experiences in order to expand their visual thinking, develop skills and participate in critical analysis. In addition to the regular Advanced Art course requirements, AP students must be prepared to complete additional artwork at the college level outside of class.  Students are expected to submit a portfolio to the AP College Board in the spring.

This course takes place over the course of a full school year, meeting for 280 minutes per week. Students will begin creating work for this course during the summer and will be expected to create 50% of the work for this course outside of regularly scheduled class time.

AP Studio Art, 2D Design

Full year course, 10 units, grades 11-12

Prerequisite: Instructor approval based on portfolio review or teacher recommendation.

Description: In this class, students will refine their skills in creating two-dimensional works of art that emphasize the elements and principles of design through a variety of media.  They will study artistic perception, critiquing, and design strategies through projects that emphasize analyzing and solving visual art problems.  Through a study of the history of design, students will be exposed to the evolving theoretical and practical aspects of design.  This course emphasizes individual expression, deepening artistic practice and development of mastery in specific areas of art-making, including concept, composition, drawing, painting, print-making, photography and computer generated design. Students enrolled in this course will build on existing art-making skills (students enrolling in AP Studio Art generally have taken at least one art class prior to entry into the AP program) as they further develop their personal artistic voice, problem solving skills and understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. Students will engage in individual and peer critiques and write reflectively about their art-making experiences in order to expand their visual thinking, develop skills and participate in critical analysis. AP students must be prepared to complete additional artwork at the college level outside of class.  Students are expected to submit a portfolio to the AP College Board in the spring.

This course takes place over the course of a full school year, meeting for 280 minutes per week. Students will begin creating work for this course during the summer and will be expected to create 50% of the work for this course outside of regularly scheduled class time.

AP Studio Art, 3D Design

Full year course, 10 units, grades 11-12

Prerequisites: Instructor approval based on portfolio review or teacher recommendation.

Description: AP Studio Art 3-D Design is the investigation of three-dimensional forms through a variety of media that emphasizes individual expression, deepening artistic practice and development of mastery in specific areas of art-making, including concept, composition, drawing and design. Students enrolled in this course will build on existing art-making skills (students enrolling in AP Studio Art generally have taken at least one art class prior to entry into the AP program) as they further develop their personal artistic voice, problem solving skills and understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. Students will engage in individual and peer critiques and write reflectively about their art-making experiences in order to expand their visual thinking, develop skills and participate in critical analysis.

This course takes place over the course of a full school year, meeting for 280 minutes per week. Students will begin creating work for this course during the summer and will be expected to create 50% of the work for this course outside of regularly scheduled class time.

Ceramics 1-2

Full year course, 10 units, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Ceramics is an introductory course in art, concentrating on three-dimensional artwork, in which students will learn the elements of art and the principles of design through a wide variety of projects. Students will learn to hand build, use the potters wheel, glaze and fire many styles of ceramic ware.  This course also includes art history, world cultures and career exploration.  Written assignments are required.

 

Advanced Ceramics

Full year course, 10 units (maximum of 20 units), grades 11-12

Prerequisites: Students must have successfully completed Ceramics 1-2.  Teacher approval is required.

Description: Advanced Ceramics is an art class for students with significant experience working with clay, concentrating on three-dimensional artwork, in which students will learn the elements of art and the principles of design through a wide variety of projects. Advanced Ceramics builds on students’ knowledge and experience, with opportunities for independent projects. Art history, aesthetics, art criticism, community and world cultures will be included in this course. A passing grade in Ceramics is a prerequisite for this course.

Sculpture

Full year course, 10 units, grades 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This beginning course gives students the opportunity to work with a variety of art materials to create 3-dimensional sculptures. Projects may include sculptures made from paper-mache, soap, wire, plaster, clay, fabric, recycled materials, found objects, and cardboard. This course also includes drawing and design basics, art history, and color theory. Written assignments and presentations are required.

Advanced Sculpture

Full year course, 10 units, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: Completion of a grade of B or higher in Sculpture

Description: A continuation of Sculpture, Advanced Sculpture is designed for committed sculpture students who wish to further investigate 3-dimensional forms by exploring a variety of concepts and materials. The class encourages the development of students’ individual aesthetics through open-ended prompts. Materials include soap, wire, plaster, fabric, paper, recycled materials, found objects, and cardboard. Written assignments and presentations are required.

Dramatic Arts

 

Beginning Theatre

Full year course, 10 units, grades 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of acting and performance.  Students actively participate in games and exercises to develop the principles of trust, concentration, sensory awareness, imagination, commitment, and focus.  During the first quarter, students explore these areas through improvisation, pantomime, and story-telling.  During the second quarter, students begin working with scripted material and are introduced to acting technique, script analysis, and character development through the scene and the monologue.  During the third quarter, students write their own scripts and material to explore creative expression.  Students continue to study plays, memorize, and perform published material.  Students learn to physicalize the character and use the body to convey mood, emotion, and intention.  During the fourth quarter, students are introduced to more challenging texts including the study of Shakespeare and performance.  Homework is assigned approximately 2-3 times weekly and includes performance, reading, and written work.   In-class performances are mandatory; and essays, tests and written assignments are given.

Intermediate Theatre

Full year course, 10 units, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: Students must complete Beginning Theatre with a "C" or better and have teacher recommendation.

Description: This course is designed to further develop skills introduced in the beginning level drama class.  It is also designed to enhance performance skills.  Students will critically analyze and interpret characters from scenes, monologues, one-act and full length plays.  Students will continue to study major playwrights and complete play reports and reviews.  The course also stresses the importance of physical, mental, and vocal preparation for the actor in addition to technical aspects such as costume design, lighting, props, make-up, and stage design.  Opportunity exists for extracurricular activities, such as local acting competitions and festivals.

Advanced Theatre

Full year course, 5 units per semester, grades 11-12, repeatable

Prerequisites: Placement in Advanced Theatre by audition and teacher recommendation only.

Description: Advanced Theatre is a course designed for the serious student of theatre.  The course is performance oriented, with student selection and direction of the performance pieces.  The class focuses on creating an ensemble approach to working together.  Students will develop advanced stage and acting techniques such as crying, accents, and stage combat.  Students will continue to study contemporary playwrights but will also be introduced to various historical forms and acting approaches including Classical and Renaissance.  Research paper and project are required.  Opportunity exists for extracurricular activities such as local acting, competitions and festivals.

Technical Theatre

Full year course, 5 units per semester, grades 10-12, repeatable with teacher approval.

Prerequisites: Placement in Technical Theatre by teacher recommendation only.  Students must have artistic or construction skills and be self- motivated.

Description: Students enrolled in this class learn the fundamentals of stagecraft, lighting, sound, and design as related to the field of theater and performing arts.  Students will learn about the relationship between director, designer and technician.  Students learn how to work with a director to develop a show concept, read and interpret scene designs, as well as create original designs.  Students will use theater arts stage craft techniques and use hand and power tools safely.  Students will also learn principles of lighting and sound in addition to hands on training with lighting/sound equipment in the Center for the Arts.  Students in this course provide technical service and support for CVHS play and musical productions, as well as outside events held in the Center for the Arts throughout the year.    Responsibilities, include but are not limited to, support in the following areas:  set design and construction, lights, sound, costumes, props, make-up and general stage management services.  Some after-school, evening, or weekend work may be required as production gets nearer.  Students are expected to work independently.  Opportunity exists to work as a technician in the Center for the Arts.

Play Production

One semester course offered in the fall and spring, variable credit to 5 units, repeatable, grades 9-12

This course will not meet the UC/CSU VAPA entrance requirement.

Prerequisite: Students must have been cast in the musical or play and must have teacher recommendation.

Description: Students in this class work after school as cast, crew and production staff for the CVHS main stage musical or play which is directed by a credentialed drama teacher. This class counts for Visual and Performing Arts elective credit, and does not fulfill the CVHS VAPA graduation requirement. Class meetings consist of after school and evening rehearsals and performances. Performances and/or rehearsals are also held on weekends. Written work is assigned and variable credits are awarded according to contributed hours of production work. To earn 5 credits, a student’s contribution must match or exceed the number of hours allocated in a traditional semester course (approximately 90 hours). Variable credits are prorated accordingly to individual student contribution. Allocated credits are then graded according to production goals, including but not limited to participation, preparedness, memorization, etc.

Music

 

Beginning Guitar

Full year course,  5 units per semester, grades 10-12

Prerequisite: None

Description: This course offers beginning instruction on acoustic and electric guitar.  The student will learn basic chords, music notation, and strumming techniques for accompanying traditional contemporary folk songs, classical and blues styles.  Daily practice required for proper skill building.

Performing Groups

Participation in performances and competitions will be required.  Preparation for these will require occasional night rehearsals in addition to daily meetings.  Uniform dress is mandatory for all performing groups, and students will be required to have the appropriate attire.  Written work in music theory, and music history and appreciation is also required.

Concert band

Full year course, 5 units per semester, grades 9-12

Prerequisites: Some musical training preferred, but beginners accepted with instructor approval.

Description: The Castro Valley High School Concert Band is an instrumental music class designed to meet the needs of freshmen entry-level and intermediate brass, woodwind and percussion players.  For aspiring musicians who have little or no experience on an instrument, or who wish to learn a second instrument, this smaller and more intimate hands-on class will focus on skill-building, basic music theory and note reading, musical elements and performance etiquette and technique.  The guiding philosophy of this course is that the students’ musical experience should include performance of a wide range of band and small ensemble literature, music theory and history, group dynamics, leadership skills, personal discipline, skill acquisition, and preparation for careers and adult life.  Students will perform publicly in both Winter and Spring Concerts.

Symphonic Band

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable grades 9-12

Prerequisites: Students must have a high level of proficiency on a band instrument, as determined by audition.

Description: This course is for advanced and serious music students.  Music is selected from all styles and periods of music history.  Attendance is required at concerts, festivals, and football games.  Additional activities include honor groups, music clinics, and solo/ensemble festival.  Daily practice is required, and private lessons are encouraged to foster musical quality and excellence.

Symphony Orchestra

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable, 9-12

Prerequisites: Students must have a high level of proficiency on a stringed instrument.

Description: This course is for string players interested in the study and performance of classical, folk, theatre, modern, and orchestral literature.  Woodwinds, brass, and percussion players will be invited to participate by audition and/or permission of the orchestra director.  Members of the orchestra are required to participate in 2 - 3 concerts yearly.

 

Wind Ensemble

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable, 9-12

Prerequisites:  Participation in the musical study of their instrument for two or more years

Description:  This course is for the most advanced and serious music students.  Music is selected from all styles and periods of music with a focus on contemporary band literature.  Attendance is required at concerts, festivals and football games.  Additional activities include honor groups, music clinics, and solo/ensemble festivals.  Daily practice is required, and private lessons are encouraged to foster musical quality and excellence.

Chamber Orchestra Honors

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable grades 9-12

Prerequisites: Active participation in current semester of Symphony Orchestra.  Enrollment by audition only.

Description: This course is designed to meet the needs of the highest caliber and self-motivated Symphony Orchestra players.  It is intended for aspiring professional musicians who desire the more rigorous and challenging music of the chamber orchestra/string orchestra repertoire of Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th Century composers.  Students will meet in evening rehearsals designated by the director and will perform publicly in both Winter and Spring Concerts.

Madrigals

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable, grades 11-12

Prerequisites: Entry into this class is based on audition by teacher.  In order to remain in Madrigals for the second semester, students must earn a grade of "B" or better for the first semester.

Description: This course provides an intimate ensemble approach to music of all periods.  Madrigals will represent the school in numerous performances before civic groups, clubs, and in concerts, choral festivals, etc.

A Cappella Choir

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable, grades 10-12

Prerequisites: Entry into this class is based on audition by teacher.  In order to remain in A Cappella Choir for the second semester, students must earn a grade of "B" or better for the first semester.

Description: This is an advanced singing group which performs great music from all historical periods.  Singers will participate in the annual music educators’ festivals and perform in two or more concerts.  They may also elect to perform in a solo and ensemble festival.

Vocal Ensemble

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable, grades 9-12

Prerequisite: Ability to match pitch and/or teacher approval.

Description: The course is intended to train students in vocal techniques:  part singing, sight reading, note reading, and other aspects of general music, preparing them to go on to more advanced work in A Cappella and Madrigals.  Students will perform in concerts as do all the choirs, which will be the culmination of the skills developed during class.  Students will have an opportunity to perform for the public and, on an optional basis, be involved in CMEA sponsored Solo and Ensemble Festival for developing solo technique.

Advanced Choir Ensemble

Full year course, 5 units per semester, repeatable, grades 10-12

Prerequisite: Entry into this class is based on audition by teacher.  In order to remain in the ensemble for the second semester, students must earn a grade of "B" or better for the first semester.

Description: This course is an intermediate to advanced ensemble experience for treble voices.  The repertoire will include music from all historical periods performed in three and four parts.  Singers will perform in two or more public concerts and may participate in the annual music educators’ festivals.  Students may also elect to perform in the CMEA Solo & Ensemble Festivals.