Arts Course Offerings

This is a one-semester course for students who desire to learn about the foundations of visual art, explored through the use of various media. Students will study: Elements of Art and Principles of Design; graphite drawing, including still life and figures. Using the 8 Habits of Studio Art, students will draw and paint, focusing on form, value, and color theory.

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a one-semester course for students who show a desire to further their exploration in Visual Art. The elements of art are explored in a more in-depth manner through the use of various media. Projects may include watercolor, acrylic, and non-traditional painting, as well as oil pastels, printmaking, 3D design, ceramics, and portfolio preparation. Students will explore various techniques of art production using the 8 Habits of Studio Art.  

Prerequisites: Studio Art I or Exploring Art I or Departmental approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a one-semester course designed for students who may be interested in pursuing Visual Art in higher education or have a desire to further pursue artistic opportunities. Most projects are two-dimensional and allow students to explore the use of a variety of media, including charcoal, pen, pen and ink, chalk pastel, professional-grade markers, and colored pencils, as well as watercolor, acrylic, and an introduction to oil painting. The student is responsible for choosing most subject matter and applying the 8 Habits of Studio Art independently within their work. Extra studio time may be needed for project completion. 

Prerequisites: Studio Art I & Studio Art II (Exploring Art I & Exploring Art II or Drawing also apply) or Departmental Approval

Grade 10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a one-semester course for students who are more interested in design than traditional art. All projects will be based on the Elements of Art and Principles of Design and the process of creative problem solving. Students will be responsible for choosing subject matter and composition. Subject matter may include canvas collage; abstract landscape; woodburning; fabric painting and design; and paper cutting. Students will also complete an independent art project inspired by their artist of choice. Students will learn the value of following the process to a rewarding outcome. 

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a one-semester course for students who show a desire to further pursue mixing media types and working with their hands. Students will continue to focus on the Elements of Art and Principles of Design while producing 3D forms and will be responsible for choosing subject matter and composition. Projects may include 3D letter design, watercolor resist, block-printing, figure sculptures, ceramics, and further study in fabric design and printing.

Prerequisites: Art & Design Appreciation I or Studio Art I (Mixed Media I or Exploring Art I also apply) or Departmental Approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

*For transfer students: application, interview, and departmental approval

This is an independent study course, focusing on the production of each student’s Art portfolio. Artwork created will also be included in a school-wide art exhibit. This course is designed to prepare students for their pursuit of the Visual Arts at the collegiate level.

Grade 11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

Students are selected for this course based on a submitted application and a personal interview. This class allows students to pursue their creative talents beyond the regular classroom. The course is organized as a class, with students working on individual and group assignments for the yearbook. The student will learn to use software to pull together all of the elements of a yearbook, including photography, layout design, and copywriting. This class is limited to 12 students. 

Prerequisites: Departmental Approval

Grade 10/11/12 · Full Year · 1 Credit

This is a one-semester course, arranged primarily as a theatre history and play survey class. Students will explore various scripts, discovering the evolution of theatre from Ancient Greece to the contemporary stage. Students will also study theatre history, building their comprehension of the production’s connection to the time period. Emphasis will be on theatre history, script reading, discussion, and performance critique. Basic acting and opportunities for playwriting will also be included in the class projects; however, this is explored in greater detail in Advanced Theatre Arts.

This one-semester course presents detailed instruction in acting techniques, as well as an overview of other technical elements involved in a theatrical production:  set design, costume design, and directing. Students will gain a stronger understanding of using the actor’s tools - mind, body, and voice - in bringing characters to life through genuine and truthful storytelling. Students in this class are also encouraged to be directly involved in the state theatre competitions. Emphasis will be on student participation, performance, evaluation, and critique.

Prerequisites: Intro to Theatre Arts or Departmental Approval · Performance in 2 High School Productions

Grade 10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a fall-semester course in which students will learn the basic skills for making theatrical properties. In using color theory and basic shop tools, students will learn a variety of texture painting skills, build prop candles, rock formations, and fake food. Students will also learn the skills of mold-making by building and designing a hinged box and walking baubled cane. Through these projects, students will acquire foundational knowledge in theatrical construction used in prop, scenic, and costuming work. Emphasis will be on class projects and student evaluation of work. (Class limit 10)

Prerequisites: Departmental Approval

Recommended: Intro to Theatre Arts or Stage Crew 

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

*This course is held after school

This is a one-semester course designed for students who want to learn about or be involved with the theatrical production process. This course will use the current main stage production as a lab, with practical application covering the elements of technical theatre, including scenic construction, costuming, scenic painting, sound, and lighting operation. To be eligible for this ½ credit, students must acquire at least 60 crew hours and fulfill a role as a part of the production crew, as assigned by the Director. (Pass/Fail)

Prerequisites: Safety Contract on File

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

*This course is held after school

This is a one-semester independent study course. Interested students will select a one-act play and complete the proposal and interview process. The student assigned to direct will prepare, cast, and direct this one-act play to compete in one of the two state theatre festivals (one in the fall and one in the spring.)  Under the direction of the instructor, the student will prepare a script and character analysis, plan and execute auditions and casting, rehearse the cast, and hold design meetings. These student directors are responsible for the preparation of the production and will attend the festivals to lead the tech rehearsals and oversee the performances. Emphasis will be on project deadlines, communication, leadership, and collaboration.

Prerequisites: Application · Interview · Departmental Approval

Grade 12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

*This course is held after school

This is a full-year independent study course. Students are selected for this course based on a submitted application and a personal interview. The basis for this independent study course is the production and independent design work. Students work directly with the teacher on all Fine Arts productions and events throughout the current season, in the roles of stage managers, scenic designers, costume designers, property designers, or sound and lighting technicians. The students will also begin building a personal resume for college admissions and work toward evolving and improving the efficiency of the design team.

Prerequisites: Application · Interview · Departmental Approval

Grade 11/12 · Full Year · 1 Credit

This one-semester course will train students in the art of improvisation and public speaking. While improvisational theatre will be addressed, the focus of the class will be on intuitive responses that build the skills of thinking quickly and creatively; dealing with the unexpected; communicating clearly; focusing attention; and teamwork through exercises, scene-building, and class presentation. Basic vocal work and the use of speech and the voice will also be addressed to aid individual students in understanding how to use their voices more effectively. (Class limit 10)

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

Students will focus on the development of vocal skills and learn basic musicianship through ear training, music history, and music theory. Students will have the opportunity to further improve and refine their vocal technique while exploring a variety of musical styles, both sacred and secular. Students will perform in the Christmas and Spring concerts and sing for weekly school Mass.

Prerequisites: None

*Students may enroll for one or two semesters each year.

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This class ​is for students who have completed two years of strings class at SJCS or another school. Students enrolled in this class have auditioned for the director and have shown that they are advanced enough to join the high school ensemble. Students will be learning a wide range of repertoire consisting of original, classical, pop, and sacred music, written for chamber size ensembles. Students will be expected to participate in their semester concert(s).

*Students may enroll for one or two semesters each year

Prerequisites: Ability to Perform Grade 2.0 Literature · Departmental Approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a full-year course and will be run concurrently with the High School Strings class (742) providing additional opportunity to the students for a challenging and more rigorous curriculum within a full school year. This is a course focused on “project based learning”. In addition to addressing performance skills this course is designed to promote a full understanding of music theory. The study of each musical concept continues throughout the year as the students apply these skills to exercises and performance selections.  In addition to class orchestra selections, the course will include small ensemble selections to allow for differentiated instruction. In addition to the requirements of High School Strings (742), the students will also prepare music for Region and All-State Orchestra, Solo/Ensemble, along with Mass. The course is predominantly performance based and encourages skilled players to explore new goals on his or her instrument. 

*Students may enroll for multiple years

Prerequisites: Three years of instruction and departmental approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 · Full Year · 1 Credit

In Introduction to Guitar, students will learn the basics of playing guitar. Additionally, they will learn the fundamentals of music theory and song structure. We will cover a broad overview of music history through the 20th and 21st centuries, and grow in music appreciation through a wide variety of listening and writing exercises. This will all be completed through the context of learning and analyzing songs across a variety of genres, including but not limited to blues, rock & roll, folk, country, contemporary popular music, and hymns.

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

In this course, students will build upon the foundation established in “Introduction to Guitar.” They will learn more advanced theory, techniques, and songs. Given our expanded breadth of knowledge, there will be more opportunities for learning student-selected songs. As in “Introduction to Guitar,” we will cover a broad overview of music history through the 20th and 21st centuries, and grow in music appreciation through a wide variety of listening and writing exercises. This will all be completed through the context of learning and analyzing songs across a variety of genres, including but not limited to rock & roll, blues, folk, country, contemporary popular music, and hymns.

Prerequisites: Introduction to Guitar or Departmental Approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This class is for students who have completed two years of band class at SJCS or another school. Students enrolled in this class should have completed Standard of Excellence Book I or have auditioned for the director and have shown that they are advanced enough to join the High School band class. These students will be working on a music repertoire appropriate for the High School Concert Band. Students will be expected to participate in their semester concert(s).

*Students may enroll for one or two semesters each year

Prerequisites: 2 Years of Instruction · Departmental Approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a full-year course and will be run concurrently with the High School Band class (746) providing additional opportunity to the students for a challenging and more rigorous curriculum within a full school year. Honors Band students will join in preparing a music repertoire appropriate for High School Concert Band. In addition to the requirements of High School Band (746), this course is designed to provide students with a model for becoming a successful musician and to experience other aspects of what great musicians do.
Performance Component (choose 3): All State Audition, Diosecan Clinic Participation, Solo and Ensemble Participation, Written Concert Critique (2) 
Student Choice Component (2 per semester): 10 various choices to be provided in class

*Students may enroll for multiple years

Prerequisites: 3 Years of instruction · Departmental Approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 ·Full Year · 1 Credit

This fall semester class meets during school once a week to prepare for performances at all home Varsity Football games and Pep Rallies. Credit is dependent on student presence at all rehearsals and games (unless alternative arrangements are made with the Band Director). Attendance at summer preseason gatherings in late july is required. Afterschool rehearsals are held on Fridays that also have home Varsity Football Games.

Prerequisites:  1 Year of instrumental instruction

Grade 9/10/11/12 ·1 Semester · .5 Credit

This one-semester class is an introduction to all forms of modern dance. It explores the movement of the body in relationship to space, form, and rhythm. The class will consist of a warm-up, stretching, exercises to develop coordination of movements, and choreography to a variety of routines. Students will be expected to dress in comfortable, yoga-type clothing for the class. No performance will be required. The class will be limited to 18. 

*This course can count as a PE credit instead of Fine Arts

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This one-semester, beginning dance class teaches many of the social dances of our culture and others. It covers basic ballroom dancing, like swing, the waltz, and the tango. The students will also participate in contra dancing, square dancing, and other folk dances. Many newer line dances will also be taught, like country, disco, and pop. The class will be limited to 18. (Pass/Fail)

*This course can count as a PE credit instead of Fine Arts

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This course is for current or past dance students who would like to focus on some aspect of dance, either of a different interest than they are currently pursuing or in a particular field of current study. This provides the opportunity for students with dance experience to broaden their knowledge. Examples include: Ballet, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Musical Theatre, Irish, African, Clogging, etc. Student work will focus on technique and choreography in the selected style. Throughout the course, students will lead warm-ups and other exercises while also preparing performance projects - the replication of an approved choreographer's dance and an independently choreographed dance.

Prerequisites: Prior Dance Lessons and departmental approval

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

Students will explore the art of creative writing by investigating various genres of literature and writing; reading closely with an eye on technique, style, and voice; writing creatively in a variety of genres and with various foci; and presenting their own work through peer editing, author’s chair readings, and publishing. Students will keep a writing journal and will submit a portfolio of original compositions at the course's end.

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

This is a college-level class that examines the role of art within history and the effect of that history upon art. The study of Art History involves critical thinking and will develop an understanding and knowledge of diverse historical and cultural contexts of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other media. It also will create opportunities for students to strengthen an area neglected in most curricula. In this course, students will examine major forms of artistic expression from the past and present from a variety of cultures. While visual analysis is a fundamental tool of the art historian, art history emphasizes understanding how and why works of art function in context, considering such issues as patronage, gender, and the functions and effects of art. Summer work is required.  

*This class can fulfill 1.0 elective credit in History instead of 1.0 Fine Arts credit. 

Prerequisites: AP U.S. History with 85 average or Honors U.S. History with 90 average

*Recommended: PSAT Score of 590

Grade 11/12 · Full Year · 1 Credit

This one-semester, seminar-style, inquiry-based course will analyze selected films, emphasizing the relevance of these films to American culture. Issues of personal and cultural identity, assimilation, segregation, and political struggle are particularly explored. Students will develop cultural competency and film analysis skills.

Prerequisites: None

Grade 11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

Woodworking is a semester-long class where students roll up their sleeves, learn to use tools safely and confidently, and experience the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and useful with their own hands. Over the course of the semester, students design and complete three ornate handcrafted woodworking projects, building skills in measuring, layout, joinery, assembly, and finishing, along with careful use and maintenance of both hand and power tools. 

Students also work together to assist in designing and building set pieces for our fall or spring school play, giving them a chance to see their work on stage and to support the wider school community. Throughout the course, the example of St. Joseph the Worker, the carpenter and foster father of Jesus, will serve as a model of quiet excellence, patience, and faith-filled craftsmanship. Students will be encouraged to see their work not just as “shop projects,” but as a way of honoring God through the trades, creating pieces of art that reflect care, skill, and love of neighbor. 

Prerequisites: None

Grade 9/10/11/12 · 1 Semester · .5 Credit

Studio Art I · 750

Studio Art II · 751

Art & Design Appreciation I · 760

Art & Design Appreciation II · 761

Intro to Theatre Arts · 710

Prop Construction · 712

Stage Crew Practicum · 713

Public Speaking and Improvisation · 716

High School Chorus · 721

Intro to Modern Dance · 731

Intro to Social Dance · 732

Advanced Dance Study · 734

Strings Ensemble · 742

Honors High School Strings · 743

High School Band · 746

Honors High School Band · 749

Pep Band · 747

Creative Writing · 770

Intermediate Guitar · 741

Woodworking · 780

Studio Art I · 750

Studio Art II · 751

Studio Art III · 752

Art & Design Appreciation I · 760

Art & Design Appreciation II · 761

Yearbook Staff · 707

Intro to Theatre Arts · 710

Advanced Theatre Arts · 711

Prop Construction · 712

Stage Crew Practicum · 713

Public Speaking and Improvisation · 716

High School Chorus · 721

Intro to Modern Dance · 731

Intro to Social Dance · 732

Advanced Dance Study · 734

Strings Ensemble · 742

Honors High School Strings · 743

High School Band · 746

Honors High School Band · 749

Pep Band · 747

Creative Writing · 770

Intermediate Guitar · 741

Woodworking · 780

Studio Art I · 750

Studio Art II · 751

Studio Art III · 752

Art & Design Appreciation I · 760

Art & Design Appreciation II · 761

Portfolio Development · 705

Yearbook Staff · 707

Intro to Theatre Arts · 710

Advanced Theatre Arts · 711

Prop Construction · 712

Stage Crew Practicum · 713

Production Design · 715

Public Speaking and Improvisation · 716

High School Chorus · 721

Intro to Modern Dance · 731

Intro to Social Dance · 732

Advanced Dance Study · 734

Strings Ensemble · 742

Honors High School Strings · 743

High School Band · 746

Honors High School Band · 749

Pep Band · 747

Creative Writing · 770

AP Art History · 771/453

Film & Media · 717

Intermediate Guitar · 741

Woodworking · 780

Studio Art I · 750

Studio Art II · 751

Studio Art III · 752

Art & Design Appreciation I · 760

Art & Design Appreciation II · 761

Portfolio Development · 705

Yearbook Staff · 707

Intro to Theatre Arts · 710

Advanced Theatre Arts · 711

Prop Construction · 712

Stage Crew Practicum · 713

Directing · 714

Production Design · 715

Public Speaking and Improvisation · 716

High School Chorus · 721

Intro to Modern Dance · 731

Intro to Social Dance · 732

Advanced Dance Study · 734

Strings Ensemble · 742

Honors High School Strings · 743

High School Band · 746

Honors High School Band · 749

Pep Band · 747

Creative Writing · 770

AP Art History · 771/453

Film & Media · 717

Intermediate Guitar · 741

Woodworking · 780