Curriculum

Visual Art II

In this studio art course, students approach the making of art from a three different anglesóthrough the elements of art, the study of a variety of skills and media, and the study of art history and conceptual approaches. Students will continue to develop their studio skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media and a variety of other approaches. Critique is central to the artistic process and regular group critiques will help students to improve their work as well as their artistic vocabulary, communication and visual analysis skills. Open to all grade levels with departmental approval) Credit: 1.

Introduction to Visual Art

In this trimester course, students will learn a variety of drawing and painting techniques, the elements and principles of design and introductory color theory. The student will become familiar with tools, media and ways of thinking about art. Students will discover how people use a common visual language to express their own unique perspectives. The class explores the elements of both two- and three-dimensional art, which can be applied to any media or art form. Credit: 1/3; Level I

Drawing

Drawing is the foundation for all artistic expression. This course emphasizes the fundamental drawing techniques and skills needed for further work in various media. In it, students develop a visual vocabulary that they will utilize in exploration of literal, visual and expressive qualities of drawings. Students learn about line, proportion, perspective and chiaroscuro, as well as about the variety of materials and techniques used in drawing. (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Painting

This course is designed to introduce students to painting through the use of a variety of materials and techniques. Students learn about tone, color intensity and basic color theory, with examples from the history of art. Mediums investigated include acrylic and watercolor, as well as surface preparation. Students learn and discuss the principles of design and find practical uses for them in their work. (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Ceramics

Ceramics is a short introduction to working with our most basic elements: earth, water, fire and air. Students work with clay in all its forms and experiment with both functional and ornamental designs. Students are introduced to fundamental methods of forming clay and the age-old hand building processes of pinch, coil building and slab construction. After students learn the hand-building repertoire, they develop the basic techniques of wedging, centering and throwing clay on the potter’s wheel. Finally, students become familiar with the process of firing the electric kiln and, when possible, are introduced to the primitive pit-fire method of firing in the Native American tradition. (Open to juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Sculpture

Sculpture is the visual study of civilization. The interdisciplinary connection to history, math and science such as anatomy, geometry, physics, date back to the caves in Lascaux, Dorodogne, France (15,000 – 13,000 BC) the reliefs in Angkor Watt, Cambodia (12thc) and Ghiberti’s bronze door to the Baptistry in Florence (completed 1435). Through an exposure to a broad range of historical traditions and ideas, this class focuses on conceptual, personal and visual expression through three-dimensional media. Students explore the aesthetics and underlying meaning of three-dimensional form through the study of relief sculpture and sculpture in the round. Students will be using carving, casting, modeling and construction methods with a variety of materials from clay, plaster, wire, cardboard and found objects in the building of their sculptural assignments. (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Photography

Photography focuses on the use of the photographic medium as a means of personal expression and communication. Students gain a thorough understanding of the camera and how it can be used as a creative tool. They learn the technical aspects of photography, including the different parts of the 35mm SLR camera, how to properly expose and develop film, how to create good black and white prints and how to make contact sheets and black and white enlargements. Students have extensive opportunity to work with basic darkroom processes and techniques. The second-level course emphasizes the creative aspects and the aesthetics of good photographic composition. Emphasis shifts from photographic craft to the artful capture and strong composition of a variety of subject matter. Students are encouraged to experiment with different film formats and printing techniques. All students are asked to maintain a portfolio of their work and to keep a journal as a way of illustrating their ideas and writing critiques. (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Graphic Design and Advertising

This course offers students the opportunity to master the basics of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. We explore color theory, composition, appropriation, negative and positive space, pattern and other major aspects of design. Students will investigate themes and approaches to advertising and graphic design in a real-world context. This course requires students to understand and incorporate both the basics of design, trade skills, and conceptual approaches. (Open to juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Graphic Design and Advertising II (with Adobe Exam)

This course builds on the skills developed in GDA I. Students will continue to explore photo manipulation, product design and packaging, as well as principles of layout. Students have the option to sit for the Adobe Certification Exam in Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign. (Open to juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Digital Video

This one-term course introduces the art and science of digital video production. Students will learn to plan, shoot, edit and compress digital video for distribution through the Internet. Proper operation of a video camera to produce video that maintains visual continuity is emphasized. Students will create individual as well as group video projects. (Open to juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level II

Advanced Studio Art

In this studio course, intermediate students develop technical proficiency, awareness of artistic sensitivity and sensibility and an understanding of the process of making art. Based on the interaction of the elements and principles of design, students will create a range of artworks. Through various studio projects, students develop their own voices, utilizing skills attained in earlier art courses. Drawing from observation will be practiced on a regular basis. Emphasis will be on the creation of a body of work that conveys the student’s investigation, growth and discovery. Projects will utilize a variety of techniques and materials in the areas of drawing, painting, collage, digital imaging and mixed media. (Prerequisite: departmental approval) Credit: 1; Level III

Advanced Placement Art History

AP Art History is designed to provide an understanding and enjoyment of architecture, sculpture, painting and other art forms within historical and cultural contexts. Students examine major forms of artistic expression from the past and present and from a variety of cultures. They learn to look at works of art critically, with intelligence and sensitivity, and to articulate what they see or experience. The course includes visits to various local museums and galleries. No prior exposure to art history is required. This course prepares successful students to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam in art history. A Consortium section is also available, which is taught at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. (Open to juniors and seniors) Credit: 1; Level III

Advanced Placement Studio Art

In this studio course, advanced students develop technical proficiency, awareness of artistic sensitivity and sensibility and an understanding of the process of making art. Based on the interaction of the elements and principles of design, students will create a range of artworks. Through various studio projects, students develop their own voices, utilizing skills attained in earlier art courses. Drawing from observation will be practiced on a regular basis. Emphasis will be on the creation of a body of work that conveys the student’s investigation, growth and discovery. Projects will utilize a variety of techniques and materials in the areas of drawing, painting, collage, digital imaging and mixed media. Students will work to develop and submit a portfolio based on the requirements of the College Board. (Prerequisite: Advanced Studio Art or departmental approval) Credit: 1; Level III

Introduction to Theater Arts

The primary goal of this trimester course is to introduce students to the art of acting. More specifically, it allows students to recognize their own personal responses to the environment, specific emotions or a given situation, and utilize these reactions in creating individual and unique characters. Acting is a matter of choices, and students learn to make creative, actable and quality choices based on increased self-awareness and universal understanding. This class focuses on developing both vocal and physical awareness through sensory and emotional responses. Using improvisation, monologues, scene work and script analysis, students focus on developing and communicating an understanding of their own experiences and empathy for both peers and people in worlds beyond their own. Credit: 1/3; Level 1

Theater Workshop (yearlong)

This advanced level class will cultivate and reinforce acting techniques and allow for further application of skills developed in earlier theatre classes. Specific goals include: the study and understanding of Theatre Arts, and its impact on our culture and history; increasing the theatrical performance opportunities for those students who show both interest and aptitude; exploring all realms of theatrical production, including directing, producing, stage managing, and technical elements. Theatre Workshop will participate in staged productions and advanced students will also participate local theatre competitions. (Prerequisites: audition and/or permission of the instructor) Credit: 1; Level III

Basic Stagecraft

This course offers an opportunity for students to learn and apply intermediate design theory in one of three major technical areas: scenic design, lighting design and sound design. Classroom theory is applied first to conceptual design projects in the student’s chosen area of concentration; this work culminates in a practical project, which may include creating the actual design of a major production. Concentration is on concept, design and communication of ideas through rendering, drafting and model making. Areas explored include color theory, lighting, fabrics and application to theater and dance. The class also explores the collaborative process between the designer, the director and the entire artistic team. Students apply what they are learning by developing and constructing the actual elements of the current production and/or one-act production. (Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Advanced prerequisite: Basic Stagecraft) Credit: 1/3; Level 1

Advanced Stagecraft

This course offers an opportunity for students to learn and apply intermediate design theory in one of three major technical areas: scenic design, lighting design and sound design. Classroom theory is applied first to conceptual design projects in the student’s chosen area of concentration; this work culminates in a practical project, which may include creating the actual design of a major production. Concentration is on concept, design and communication of ideas through rendering, drafting and model making. Areas explored include color theory, lighting, fabrics and application to theater and dance. The class also explores the collaborative process between the designer, the director and the entire artistic team. Students apply what they are learning by developing and constructing the actual elements of the current production and/or one-act production. (Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Advanced prerequisite: Basic Stagecraft) Credit: 1/3; Level 1

Audio Engineering

In this media age, people are both creating and consuming media on a daily basis. Tools for media production have become readily accessible, by phone, PC, iPod, etc. Though convenient, such tools do not necessarily create a high level product. This trimester course provides students with the tools to process and analyze auditory data and to make rational decisions in editing, collecting and sharing data aurally. Throughout the trimester, students will work with a variety of necessary audio equipment, as well as their peers and artists within the Bullis community. The students will learn recording in the classroom and may assist the community with live recording for events such the Jazz Café, senior portfolios, recitals and student work. This course will emphasize critical thinking and collaborative effort, while insisting on excellence in creativity. (Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level 1

Theatrical Design and Production (yearlong)

This yearlong course continues the work introduced in Advanced Stagecraft Techniques with additional focus on design theory and practicality. Topics include set, light and sound design and technical direction of all elements. Students develop and present projects consisting of complete designs and working drawings of scenery and lighting from selected works of theater. The emphasis is on the implementation of concepts and ideas in physical production. Students are paired with student directors to produce a one-act play. Students build a finished portfolio and resume including picture designs and other production elements. (Prerequisite: Advanced Stagecraft Techniques and approval of the instructor) Credit: 1; Level II

Theater Arts II

This intermediate, yearlong class will cultivate and reinforce basic acting techniques. Students will explore a variety of acting styles and techniques in character development and distill a personal system that enables them to create and communicate unique characters. Specific topics covered include: selecting and developing suitable material for auditions; preparing and analyzing a monologue or scene; using observations and personal experiences to create believable characters; searching for the truth in an action, a situation or a character; creating a score to activate the physical life of a character; creating an environment out of empty space; writing a resume; guideposts to creating an organized and functional approach to acting. (Prerequisites: audition and/or permission of the instructor) Credit: 1; Level II

Introduction to Dance

This trimester course is designed for students who have had little or no dance background. Students will explore and practice the principles of dance technique while working towards developing awareness, freedom and control in the use of the body as an instrument of expression. Students will learn basic technical skills and creative aspects relative to a variety of dance styles. Students will focus on building the skills of coordination, balance, body alignment, flexibility, strength, endurance, musical awareness, phrasing, precision and rhythmic accuracy. Credit: 1/3; Level 1

Dance Ensemble (yearlong)

This course is designed for the intermediate to advanced level dancer with a strong interest in the art of dance. Intermediate students will learn technique and vocabulary in the areas of jazz, modern, and Hip Hop dance. Technical expertise and artistic expression are enhanced through reflective practice, study and evaluation of one's own work. Emphasis will be placed upon increasing strength, balance, flexibility, rhythmic training/musicality, quick-slow movement dynamics and the head-tailbone connection. Intermediate students will perform primarily on campus. Advanced students will continue to develop a broad movement vocabulary while learning choreography in jazz, contemporary, modern dance, and Hip-Hop dance. Emphasis will be placed on mastery of turns, leaps, jumps, falls and recovery, partnering, and floor work. In addition, students will also gain valuable experience in structuring movement from simple phrases to complex organizational units and exploring the visual components of dance production. Advanced students will also perform off campus. This class can be repeated for up to 4 credits. (Prerequisite: audition and/or teacher approval) Credit: 1

Advanced Dance Ensemble

This yearlong course is designed for the advanced level dancer with a strong interest in the art of dance. Advanced dance students will continue to develop a broad movement vocabulary while learning choreography in jazz, contemporary, modern and Hip-Hop dance. Emphasis will be placed on mastery of turns, leaps, jumps, falls and recovery, partnering, and floor work. In addition, students will also gain valuable experience in structuring movement from simple phrases to complex organizational units and exploring the visual components of dance production. Advanced students will also perform off campus. This class can be repeated for up to 4 credits. (Prerequisite: audition and/or teacher approval) Credit: 1; Level III

Computer Music I and II

These trimester courses are designed to introduce students to the constantly evolving world of electronic and digital technology. Students will explore music through synthesizer keyboards, computers, digital sound design and written composition using a direct, hands-on-approach. These courses cover the physics of sound, the history of electronic music, sound synthesis, functions and operations of synthesizers, music composition and sequencing software, and digital recording and editing. Students will be required to create compositions, manipulate sequencing software and edit recordings of live performances. (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors) Credit: 1/3; Level 1

Concert Band (yearlong)

Upper School Concert Band class helps students progress toward the attainment of intermediate to advanced woodwind, brass and percussion objectives through an emphasis on large ensemble playing. Instrumentation of the group will be at the discretion of the instructor. Students are expected to buy or rent their own instrument and private lessons are required for all students in this course. Percussion students will need to purchase a stick bag containing several kinds of sticks, mallets, etc. They will also expected to have a drum pad and either a bell kit or piano for use at home. Attendance at evening concerts, extra-instructional time sectionals and occasional evening rehearsals is expected in this yearlong course. (Prerequisite: attainment of intermediate woodwind, brass, string and percussion objectives and audition) Credit: 1; Level 1

Digital Music I and II

These courses are designed to introduce students to the constantly evolving world of electronic and digital technology. Students will explore music through synthesizer keyboards, computers, digital sound design and written composition using a direct, hands-on-approach. These courses cover the physics of sound, the history of electronic music, sound synthesis, functions and operations of synthesizers, music composition and sequencing software, and digital recording and editing. Students will be required to create compositions, manipulate sequencing software and edit recordings of live performances. Credit: 1/3

Percussion Ensemble (yearlong)

The Percussion Ensemble is designed to teach the fundamentals of percussion technique to beginning and intermediate students through the study of the standard percussion repertoire. Members of the class also will function together as an independent ensemble that will present their own repertoire on and off campus in concerts and events. Students may participate in the Percussion Ensemble for multiple years; some also may be invited to participate in Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble or Jazz Workshop. Percussion students will need to purchase a stick bag containing several kinds of sticks, mallets and accessories. They will also be expected to have a drum pad and either a bell kit or piano for use at home. Private lessons are required for students in this course. Attendance at evening concerts, extra-instructional time sectionals, and occasional evening rehearsals is expected in this yearlong course. Credit: 1; Level 1

Jazz Ensemble (yearlong)

Upper School Jazz Ensemble will help students progress toward the attainment of the advanced woodwind, brass and percussion objectives in relation to the musical study of Jazz through an emphasis on large ensemble playing. Participants will need to purchase or rent an instrument and private lessons will be required for all students enrolled in this class. Attendance at evening concerts, extra-instructional time sectionals, and occasional evening rehearsals is also expected in this yearlong course. Instrumentation of the group will be at the discretion of the instructor. (Prerequisite: attainment of advanced woodwind, brass, string and percussion objectives, audition, concurrent membership in Concert Band or Concert Band/Jazz Workshop; required concurrent membership in Concert Band or Concert Band/Jazz Workshop) Credit: 1; Level II

String Ensemble (yearlong)

The String Ensemble is designed to assist students in the development of advanced string objectives. Students perform a variety of works written for smaller ensembles with the goal of developing greater independence, facility and group skills. Participants will need to purchase or rent an instrument and private lessons will be required for all students enrolled in this class. Attendance at evening concerts, extra-instructional time sectionals, and occasional evening rehearsals is expected in this yearlong course. Instrumentation of the group will be at the discretion of the instructor. (Prerequisite: attainment of advanced string objectives and audition) Credit: 2/3; Level II

Chamber Singers/Concert Choir (yearlong)

Chamber Singers is a highly select, mixed ensemble of 12-16 voices that are chosen through a rigorous audition process. This ensemble explores the chamber music from the Renaissance era through the vocal jazz idiom of the current age. Throughout the course, attention is paid to historical context, artistry, language, performance practice and the theoretical foundations of a given piece. Performing both on and off campus, the group serves as ambassadors for Bullis School. Private lessons will be expected for all students enrolled in this class. (Prerequisite: audition/interview; one year of service in an Upper School choral ensemble, concurrent enrollment in Concert Choir) Credit: 1 (with concurrent enrollment in Concert Choir)

Concert Choir (yearlong)

Concert Choir is a yearlong ensemble comprised of the Camerata, Caprice, and Chamber Singers groups. All members of both of these ensembles participate in Concert Choir, which meets one period per week. (Required concurrent membership in Camerata, Caprice or Chamber Singers) Credit: 1; Level II

Jazz Workshop (yearlong)

Upper School Jazz Workshop class helps students progress toward the attainment of the advanced woodwind, brass and percussion objectives in relation to the musical study of jazz. This group is intended to provide the very advanced student with additional playing and performance opportunities, as well as the development of small ensemble and improvisational skills. Private lessons are required for all students enrolled in this class. (Prerequisite: attainment of advanced woodwind, brass and percussion objectives, audition, and concurrent membership in Concert Band/Jazz Ensemble) Credit: 1; Level III

String Workshop (yearlong)

Upper School String Workshop class helps students progress toward the attainment of the advanced string objectives in relation to the musical study of chamber music. This group is intended to provide the very advanced student with additional playing and performance opportunities, as well as the development of small ensemble skills. The offering of this group may vary from year to year and will be based on the discretion of the instructor. The String Workshop is a performance group where emphasis is placed on individual growth and good ensemble playing. Works studied range throughout the standard classical repertoire. Private lessons will be required for all students enrolled in this yearlong class. (Prerequisite: attainment of advanced string objectives, audition, concurrent membership in String Ensemble) Credit: 1; Level III