Art I

In this course, students will learn basic drawing techniques using various mediums such as pencil, pen, chalk, pastel, charcoal, and paint. Students will be introduced to color, color theory, the elements of art, and principles of design. Students will produce projects that will incorporate these criteria. Students are required to maintain a sketch book to be assessed quarterly. Only students with a genuine interest, enthusiasm, and serious attitude to learn about art techniques and art history should elect this course.

Art II

Students focus on enhancing their painting techniques in acrylic, watercolor, and oil. Additionally, they are also introduced to art-related careers such as Advertising, Interior and Exterior Architectural design, and Fashion with corresponding art projects for each design area. Students continue to study art history and the works of art masters. Only successful Art I students who are serious about art, design, and careers in art should elect this course.

AP Studio Art

The AP Studio Art portfolio is designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art. The portfolio comprises a basic, three-section structure, which requires the student to show a fundamental competence and range of understanding in visual concerns and methods. The portfolio asks the student to demonstrate a depth of investigation and process of discovery through the Concentration section. In the Breadth section, the student is asked to demonstrate a Serious grounding that best exhibit a synthesis of form, technique, and content. AP Studio Art is not based on a written examination; instead, students submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year. Prerequisites: successful completion of Art I, Art II and teacher approval.

Music Theory I

This course will combine musical performance with general music study. Students will participate in at least two concerts a year, as members of the Cabrini Chamber Ensemble. Enrollment in this course requires a commitment to attend after-school and off-campus rehearsals and performances. Students will learn basic vocal and/or instrumental technique through ensemble and solo work, and will learn to read music. Students will learn the fundamentals of music theory, and will learn to read music. An introduction to music style and genre will be taught through the study of music history and literature. The Fine Arts requirement for TOPS is satisfied when Music Theory I and Music Theory II are both completed.

Music Theory II

Building on Music Theory I, Music Theory II will present a more challenging performance repertoire, such as complex harmonies, foreign languages, and contrapuntal works. Students will participate in at least two concerts annually as members of the Cabrini Chamber Ensemble. Enrollment in this course will entail a commitment to attend after-school and off-campus rehearsals and performances. Study of music theory, history, and literature will include music composition and analysis. The Fine Arts requirement for TOPS is satisfied when Music Theory I and Music Theory II are both completed.

AP Music Theory

The ultimate goal of an AP Music Theory course is to develop a student's ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. The achievement of this goal may be best approached by initially addressing fundamental aural, analytical, and compositional skills using both listening and written exercises. Building on this foundation, the course should progress to include more creative tasks, such as the harmonization of a melody by selecting appropriate chords, composing a musical bass line to provide two-voice counterpoint, or the realization of figured-bass notation. Pre-requisites: Chorus I, Chorus II or instructor approval. Students are required to take the College Board exam in May.

Fine Arts Survey A (Performing Arts)

The focus of this course is to expand the students’ knowledge and appreciation for the three performing arts: dance, drama and music. In each of these areas, several outstanding artists will be highlighted. Students will be required to prepare written and hands-on projects throughout the course. This course can be taken separately or together with Fine Arts Survey B. Taking both Fine Arts Survey A and B will count toward the full TOPS credit of the Fine Arts.

Fine Arts Survey B (Visual Arts)

The focus of this course is to expand the students’ knowledge of art history throughout the ages from the prehistoric to the modern era. Slide shows and PowerPoint presentations will be utilized throughout the course to present all eras of art production. Students will be required to prepare written and hands on projects. This course can be taken separately or together with Fine Arts Survey A. Taking both Fine Arts Survey A and B will count toward the full TOPS credit of the Fine Arts.

Speech I

Speech I is a course in the fundamentals of public speaking. The basics of writing speeches and strong communication skills are strongly stressed. Students present a variety of speeches including informative, persuasive, and entertainment. Students will also learn the basics of communication through the study of verbal and non-verbal communication. At the end of this course, a student should be able to write and communicate an original speech to suit just about any occasion. Clarity and correct pronunciation are stressed.

Speech II

Speech II is a course which further explores the fundamentals of public speaking. The focus of Speech II is argumentation, debate, and persuasion. The student learns how to be a critical thinker, how to make reasoned decisions, how to utilize research, and how to write and prepare for at least two debates to be presented in class.

Theater I

Theater I is a full credit course designed to teach the basics of theater, focusing on two areas: acting and design. The student learns about technical theater covering set, lights, costume and make-up. The fundamentals of acting are also covered, focusing on movement, voice, improvisations, and acting methods. Projects in place of exams will be expected.

Theater II

This course further explores theater focusing on two main areas: stage acting and directing. Through classic and current plays and films , students will learn to analyze and critique what is good acting and directing. Students will be expected to complete final projects in place of exams in each area which will enhance their overall performance ability on stage.

Mass Media Communication

This course covers the major broadcasting mediums which include radio, television, video, and film production. The emphasis is on the production end though relevant background information about various mediums will be taught. This is a “hands-on” course with projects throughout the year, which may include broadcasting a radio advertisement, creating a new television series, and writing and directing a small film. This class will be at the foundation of the CBN broadcasting club and will be responsible for writing and broadcasting clever, informative, and entertaining news stories to be broadcast throughout the year. Students will also master the editing software used for the broadcasts.