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    HIGH SCHOOL VISUAL ARTS CURRICULUM (9-12)
     
    The following Visual Arts courses are available to North Allegheny students in grades 9-12. Click on a course title below for more detailed information about the course.
     
    NAI OFFERINGS
     
    NASH OFFERINGS
    GRADES 9-10 ONLY   GRADES 11-12 ONLY
     


    DRAWING and PAINTING 1
    No. 6403
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 9, 10
    Credit .5

    Drawing and Painting 1 is a basic course that introduces a wide variety of media and techniques. Included in the course are topics in design and composition in areas such as painting, drawing, cartooning, and work in the sketchbook. Students will be encouraged to work creatively and to become competent in the use of different materials and basic processes. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    DRAWING and PAINTING 2
    No. 6503
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 9, 10
    Credit .5

    Drawing and Painting 2 is a more advanced study of drawing and painting. There are no prerequisites; however, Drawing and Painting 1 is recommended. Students work in an expanded range of two-dimensional media. There will be concentration in areas of more advanced drawing, watercolor and acrylic painting, graphic design, digital media, and printmaking, as well as work in the artist’s own personal sketchbook. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None. 


    DRAWING and PAINTING 3
    No. 6603
    Full Year/Full Time
    Grade 10
    Credit 1.0
    Drawing and Painting 3 is a full-year course designed for those who wish to concentrate in specialized areas of interests. A high degree of personal involvement and responsibility for developing ideas and finished work will be stressed. Projects will include an emphasis on advanced drawing and painting, watercolor, acrylics, graphic design, digital media, printmaking, and work in the sketchbook. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.
     
    Criteria for Selection - Successful completion of Drawing and Painting 1 (6403), Drawing and Painting 2 (6503), Arts and Crafts (6703), Introduction to Sculpture (6803), or Introduction to Pottery and Jewelry (6404).

    ARTS and CRAFTS
    No. 6703
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 9, 10
    Credit .5

    This course is designed for students who like to work in many different artistic areas to discover interests and abilities for further study. Students learn the primary skills of many visual art processes as well as design and creative strategies. Most of the work produced in this class is intended for use as functional objects as well as works of art, and a variety of artistic media are used to develop artistic concepts. Some of the activities in the course include: etching on mirrors, hand-wrought metal work and jewelry, wheel-thrown pottery, stencil painting on shirts, sculpture, decoupage, sand-casting, and fresco painting. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    INTRODUCTION TO POTTERY and SCULPTURE
    No. 6404
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 9, 10
    Credit .5

    This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to explore methods of artistic expression through studies in pottery and three-dimensional art making. Study will include a nine-week concentration in pottery work with experiences on the pottery wheel, hand-built ceramic work, and glazing. The other half of the semester is devoted to the creation of sculptures while exploring a variety of media including clay, plaster, metal, wood, glass, and plastic. Within each unit of study, various artists and artistic styles will be covered as well as different sculptural techniques and surface renderings. Some of these techniques will include: under and over glazing, sgrafito, marbleizing clay, polychrome, mishima, and traditional patina finishes. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    DIGITAL IMAGING and MEDIA ARTS
    No. 6202
    Semester/Full Time
    Grade 9, 10
    Credit .5

    Digital Imaging and Media Arts introduces students to authentic experiences in creating original artwork using computers and digital media. Topics will include the design and production of digital imagery, graphics and photography, animation, video, multimedia, and game design. Students will use creative software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Premiere, Fuse, Muse, and other Creative Cloud applications to explore techniques, genres, and styles relating to graphic and web design, commercial advertising, and the fine arts. This course enables the student to meet all State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    AP ART HISTORY
    No. 6013
    Full Year/Full Time
    Grade 10
    AP Wt.
    Credit 1.0

    Advanced Placement (AP) Art History is a rigorous, full year/ full time course designed to engage students at the same level as an introductory college art history survey and is intended to prepare students for the AP Art History exam.

    This course offers a unique perspective into our world’s rich and diverse cultural heritage through study of the history and development of 250 works of art and architecture from antiquity to present. While visual analysis is a fundamental tool of the art historian, art history emphasizes understanding how and why works of art function in their historical context. Throughout the year, students will examine issues such as politics, religion, patronage, gender, function and ethnicity as they relate to the creative works of various cultures and time periods. Global and thematic connections will be made through the cross-cultural comparison of art. Additionally, students will engage with the history of art through a combination of lecture, discussion, research, gallery and museum visits, assigned projects, and hands-on studio experiences.

    Students enrolled in this course are not required to take the AP exam, but it is recommended and encouraged. Transfer of passing scores on the AP Art History exam as college credit depends upon the institutions that students plan to attend. Students are advised to contact the specific colleges or universities in which they are interested in for their policies on accepting AP credit. This course enables the student to meet all State Academic Standards for Arts and Humanities.In addition, this is a college-level course designed to meet or exceed the standards set by The College Board.

    Through AP Art History, students also have the option to register for the Scholar Program in partnership with La Roche College. As a Scholar Program participant, students can earn three college credits, but it is not required. The AP Art History course is approved as an equivalent to La Roche College’s course titled, History of Art I: Prehistoric to Gothic. A fee is required to enroll in the Scholar Program.

    Criteria for Selection -
    1. Final grade of ‘A’ or higher in 9th grade Social Studies classes, or an ‘A’ or ‘B’ in a 9th grade Honors-level Social Studies course.
    2. 3.5 or higher academic average.
    3. OR, a recommendation from a high school art teacher.

    SENIOR HIGH DRAWING and DESIGN CONCEPTS
    No. 6504
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    All levels of artistic ability and experience are welcome in this semester course. In Senior High Drawing and Design Concepts, students will learn to utilize a wide range of media and techniques, including charcoal, pencil, pastel, and digital media. Students will learn techniques for drawing from observation that help them see with an artist’s eye, a key to drawing success. Students will cultivate their imagination and ability to express your ideas visually with a variety of creative strategies. Learning to use color, light, and other visual elements will be explored. Types of art making that will be explored include: portraiture, still life, perspective, and conceptually derived artwork. Individual and group discussions of your artwork will help to take work to the next level. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    SENIOR HIGH PAINTING and COLOR CONCEPTS
    No. 6604
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    All levels of artistic ability and experience are welcome in this semester course. In Senior High Painting and Color Concepts, students will learn to utilize a wide range of media and techniques, including watercolor, acrylic, oils, and mixed media. Students will learn techniques for painting from direct observation as well as from your imagination and develop your ability to express your ideas visually with a variety of creative strategies. Learning to use color, light, and other visual elements will enable students to compose well-designed paintings and artworks while exploring the effects of color. Types of art making that will be explored include: portraiture, still life, perspective, and conceptual inspiration. Individual and group discussions of your artwork will help to take work to the next level. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    POTTERY 1
    No. 6704
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    Pottery 1 is an entry-level course, designed to offer students instruction in the aesthetics, techniques, and history of pottery. The class is primarily performance-based, and students are expected to actively participate in class every day. Practice is essential to acquiring the skill necessary to form pottery. Students will learn various forming methods such as coil, slab, and the potter’s wheel. Emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship, proper technique, glazing, and decorating. Pottery is a labor-intensive class; however, there is very little bookwork. Information is presented in lecture and hands-on demonstrations during class. No previous experience is necessary. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    POTTERY 2
    No. 6705
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    Pottery 2 is a class designed for students who are interested in a more in-depth clay experience. Pottery 1 taken at NASH is required prior to taking Pottery 2. Emphasis will be placed on refining basic skills to produce work that is more complex and mature. A variety of glazing/decorating techniques will be explored. In addition, the study of ceramic history will be included focusing on contemporary

    Criteria for Selection - Pottery 1 taken at NASH, or approval of teacher.


    SCULPTURE
    No. 6804
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    This class will provide students with the opportunity to creatively express their thoughts and ideas in a three-dimensional form. Students will explore the processes of mold-making, casting, head modeling, reductive carving, and assemblage while utilizing a variety of materials including clay, plaster, wood, and found objects. Emphasis will be placed on handling the materials, craftsmanship, and creative solutions to assigned projects. No previous experience is necessary. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    PHOTOGRAPHY 1
    No. 6505
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    No previous experience is necessary to enjoy this course. Students will learn how to take great photographs, develop their own film, and make prints from their negatives. All film, chemicals, and darkroom equipment are provided. Digital photography and picture editing will also be explored. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    More course information and student work can be found online by clicking here.

    Criteria for Selection - Students must provide a 35 mm camera (a limited number can be provided to the students by the department) and their own enlarging paper.


    PHOTOGRAPHY 2
    No. 6605
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

     

    Photography 2 will provide students with an opportunity to further develop and build upon the skills learned in Photography 1. Students will explore advanced film and digital shooting techniques including multiple exposure, long exposure, painting with light, time lapse, studio lighting, and high dynamic range (HDR) imaging. Advanced darkroom techniques including combination printing and alternative chemistry will also be explored. Students will also expand upon their knowledge of digital image editing with more advanced techniques. All film, chemicals, and darkroom equipment are provided. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    In Photography 2, students can choose to register for the Scholar Program in partnership with La Roche College. As a Scholar Program participant, students can earn college credit in this course, but it is not required. Student transcripts are received directly from La Roche College. The Photography 2 course is approved as an equivalent to La Roche College’s course titled, Digital Photography/em>. A fee is required to enroll in the Scholar Program.

    Criteria for Selection - Students must provide a 35 mm camera (a limited number of which the department can loan students) and their own enlarging paper.  Students must have completed Photography 1 with a 'B' average or higher.


    JEWELRY and METALSMITHING
    No. 6912
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    Students will be taught both basic and advanced techniques of jewelry making, including processes of fabrication, photo etching, “lost wax” casting, stone setting, enameling, and glass casting. As students create projects such as rings, earrings, neckpieces, and ornaments, the emphasis will be on design and how to design successfully. Materials used will include: copper, nu-gold, nickel/silver, contemporary plastic, and glass. Students have the option to purchase precious metals and gemstones to incorporate into their work. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    COMPUTER MULTI-MEDIA ARTS
    No. 6201
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    In this course, the students design and create original digital media that include animation, video, photography, graphics, sound, and music. Students shoot, edit, montage, and apply special digital darkroom effects in Photoshop. Students shoot, edit, composite, and create special effects in video using Final Cut Pro software. Students learn sound recording, editing and design, and compose MIDI music using Garage Band. Students create animation and dynamic web content using Flash software. In the independent final project, students are encouraged to work to their interests and strengths, emphasizing a particular subject or artistic discipline. Projects have included digital art or music portfolios, media rich web site development, online exhibits, learning games, multi-media stage performances, videos, and interactive presentations on a variety of topics.

    The course emphasizes creative conception and planning, solving design challenges, personal artistic expression, and communication through new media technology. The course provides a foundation for those planning for careers in the growing field of Web and Multimedia Design as well as for the casual user. Visual Arts and Music faculty teach this course. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts and Music.

    In Computer Multi-Media Arts, students can choose to register for the Scholar Program in partnership with La Roche College. As a Scholar Program participant, students can earn college credit in this course, but it is not required. Student transcripts are received directly from La Roche College. The Photography 2 course is approved as an equivalent to La Roche College’s course titled, Digital Fine Arts. A fee is required to enroll in the Scholar Program.

    More course information and student work can be found online by clicking here.

    Criteria for Selection - None.


    ADVANCED COMPUTER MULTI-MEDIA ARTS
    No. 6211
    Semester/Full Time
    Grades 11, 12
    Credit .5

    Advanced Multi-Media Arts allows students to continue to design and create original media rich presentations, videos, animations, websites, and interactive games. This course builds upon photomontage, sound design, digital video, and animation concepts from the Multimedia Arts course. Students will explore advanced layout techniques, video mapping, and post-production video effects. Students will have the opportunity to create architectural projections, interactive portfolios, and mixed media installations.

    The course emphasizes conception and planning, solving design challenges, personal artistic expression and communication through new media technology. The course provides a foundation for careers in the growing field of web, layout, and multimedia design.

    Criteria for Selection - Successful completion of Computer Multi-Media Arts (6201)


    HONORS ART
    No. 6010
    Full Year/Full Time
    Grade 11/12
    Honors Wt.
    Credit 1.0

    Honors Art is a studio course in which the student has more opportunity to develop a higher level of personal expression, visual aesthetic judgment, and technical skill in visual art. Creative thought and individual artistic expression are developed through the use of sketchbooks, journals, gallery visits, and a variety of creative thinking strategies. Students begin to explore aesthetic preferences in the growth of an artistic style. Studio activities center on development of technical skills in a wide variety of traditional drawing and painting media as well as new media. Students study and critically respond to significant historical works of art, artists, and art periods in the process of refining their own artistic vision. Students begin to learn to prepare and present their work for group critiques, portfolios, and exhibitions.

    Honors Art provides students with the basics, insight, and some actual work that directly connect to the AP Studio Art course. In Honors Art students can choose to register for the Scholar Program in partnership with La Roche College. As a Scholar Program participant, students can earn college credit in this course, but it is not required. Student transcripts are received directly from La Roche College. The Honors Art course is approved as an equivalent to La Roche College’s course titled, Drawing I. A fee is required to enroll in the Scholar Program.

    The skills, knowledge, and insight gained in this course will help prepare students for any career and life pursuit. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection -
    1. To be accepted, you must have a 'B' average or higher in Drawing and Painting 1, 2 or 3.
    2. OR, a teacher recommendation from a previous high school art teacher.
    3. OR, at least three sections of a semester art course in previous years and had a grade average of the three sections at a 'B' or better.

    AP STUDIO ART
    No. 6011
    Full Year/Full Time
    Grade 11/12
    AP Wt.
    Credit 1.0

    Advanced Placement (AP) Studio Art is designed to meet the demands of the AP Studio Art Syllabus published by The College Board. Some work developed during the previous year may also bridge into the AP portfolio. Near the end of the course, students will be prepared with a completed portfolio of work that meets the criteria of AP Studio Art for the Drawing Portfolio and/or 2D Design Portfolio. Students will work with a variety of media, as well as personally selected media while preparing to complete a sequential portfolio of artwork. Typically, the work developed of AP Studio Art portfolios will also double as college-entry portfolio application requirements. Students express their ideas and understanding of their artwork in a written commentary that accompanies their body of work. Scheduled critique sessions provide guidance and an opportunity to clarify and express ideas. Art journals or sketchbooks will be used on a regular basis for the development of a personal artistic vision. Students will be challenged to use independent thinking skills in the development of concepts in which they have a compelling interest.

    Students enrolled in this course are not required to take the AP exam, but it is recommended and encouraged. Transfer of passing scores on the AP Studio Art exam as college credit depends upon the institutions that students plan to attend. Students are advised to contact the specific colleges or universities in which they are interested in for their policies on accepting AP credit.

    In AP Studio Art, students also have the option to register for the Scholar Program in partnership with La Roche College. As a Scholar Program participant, students can earn three college credits, but it is not required. The AP Studio Art course is approved as an equivalent to La Roche College’s course titled, Drawing I. A fee is required to enroll in the Scholar Program. This course enables the student to meet all the State Academic Standards for Visual Arts.

    Criteria for Selection -
    1. To be accepted, you must have a ‘B' in a previous full year art course of Honors Art, or Drawing and Painting 3, or a minimum of four sections of a semester art course in previous years.
    2. OR, a recommendation from a High School Art teacher and submission to the AP Studio Art Teacher of 4-6 recent works and a Journal/Sketchbook.
    3. Teacher recommendation from the previous semester or year course.