Arts

 

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to modern music production and songwriting. Emphasis is placed on understanding fundamental DAW tools and concepts, DIY recording basics, and powerfully simple music theory and composition techniques. Student work - both finished and unfinished - will be reviewed and critiqued during class time.

 

 

Theatre is a hands-on collaborative class in which students will approach theatre as performers, playwrights, directors, designers, and spectators. Throughout the two-year curriculum, students work as a cohort. Curriculum is centered on four major questions, each investigated in a semester-long course. What makes up a successful artistic collaboration? How can theatre enrich a community? What are the possible relationships between theatre and audience(s)? How do you define yourself as an artist? No experience is necessary; returning students will have the opportunity to lead projects and hone their skills through deeper exploration. This class will include field trips to see professional productions in Chicago. This course is intended for 9th-10th graders.

 

 

All together now! In this small choir setting, students will hone their skills as individual singers and thrive as a group of young musicians engaging in an eclectic mix of vocal material, from old school 16th century songs to new school contemporary a cappella arrangements. Group members will grow their knowledge and skills as singers as they are instructed on vocal and breathing techniques and exercises, music reading and ear training -- all while engaging in the collaborative and vibrant experience of making music together.

 

 

IB Theatre is an exciting project-based course (no exams) open to juniors and seniors. Projects will involve group collaboration as well as individual research and writing, and throughout the course students will keep a theatre journal to record their growth as artists. You do not need to consider yourself a performer to succeed in this class; students will emerge with a deeper understanding of theatrical devising, design, directing, and being a spectator. At the Standard Level, units include: collaborative creation of a group performance, directing, theatrical design, and world theatre traditions. At the Higher Level, students complete SL coursework with an additional capstone solo performance based on theatre theory. This course is designed to include lessons from guest teaching artists working professionally in Chicago, as well as at least 3 field trips to see live theatre and to visit local college theatre program facilities. Prerequisite: One semester of 9/10 theatre or permission from the instructor.

 

 

Studio Art 1 is student-centered and places student exploration at the heart of a holistic learning experience. Studio Art students will explore a variety of art media, tools, and techniques while being challenged by thought provoking projects. Students will develop a body of artwork through the process of observation, investigation, critical thinking, experimentation, and reflection. They will be encouraged to explore personal, cultural, political, and social justice topics, while forming themes and ideas for their artwork.

 

 

Studio Art 2/3 is for more advanced art students. In most cases, taking Studio 1 is a prerequisite. Students will have more freedom to explore the materials and techniques of their choice, while they develop personal intentions. They will examine and compare works of art from different cultures and periods of time. These works will inspire and influence artistic decisions that students make. The Studio 2/3 class will also prepare students for the Visual Arts IB Program. Project ideas will be available for those students who would still prefer some guidelines.

 

 

The IB Visual Arts course takes place over two consecutive years. Like Studio Art, it is student-centered and places student exploration at the heart of a holistic learning experience. Students have a free choice to identify, select, and explore artists, artworks, cultural contexts, and media and forms for study that interest and excite them. They also have freedom to present their studies in a variety of creative ways, including presentations, demonstrations, and exhibitions. Organization, self-management, and independent study skills are emphasized, as well as higher-order thinking skills, such as analysis and synthesis. Students will also learn to make decisions about what is relevant and useful for their own investigations and how to put their knowledge and understanding into practice, transforming ideas into action.