home
Drawing
 
Duration
1 semester, only offered in the first semester
Credit
1/2
Grade
9 – 12
Homework
Light
Prerequisite
None

As an introductory course, students work with a wide range of materials – both traditional and found – in order to investigate the nature of drawing itself through mark-making. Students then apply the Elements of Art such as line, value and form to their work, while utilizing the Principles of Design to create compositions that demonstrate an understanding of emphasis, unity and balance. Students are expected to develop their powers of observation by recording what they see, to demonstrate an understanding of basic perspective and to be able use positive and negative space effectively. An ongoing examination of the drawing process as developed throughout history, from ancient markings to modern conceptualism, serves to support, enlighten, and inspire students as they develop their images, ideas, and skills both visually and technically.

In addition, students are introduced to the computer as yet another artistic tool and explore a variety of possibilities using the Adobe Creative Suite to create artwork. Students often use Drawing I and II as a pre-AP (Advanced Placement) opportunity, since students wishing to complete an AP Studio Art portfolio, or to continue their artistic development in the IB program, will have developed the sophisticated set of skills needed for success. Moreover, they will have completed a group of finished drawings that reflect college level work in terms of composition, craftsmanship and creativity. Students explore ideas and record their reflections while maintaining a blog.

 
Duration
1 semester, offered second semester only
Credit
1/2
Grade
9 – 12
Homework
Light
Prerequisite
Drawing I or individual portfolio assessment

As an advanced course, students continue to develop their mastery of the tools and materials introduced in Drawing I. However, for the student the emphasis in curriculum shifts from discovering materials, methods and techniques, to using them in a controlled and considered manner in order to successfully create sophisticated imagery. Students maintain a sketchbook, post progress and reflections in blog entries that demonstrate their responses to the Essential Questions and demonstrate their Enduring Understandings while completing a number of assignments aimed at refining a mature artistic expression demonstrating personal style.

In addition, students use the computer to explore a variety of possibilities using the Adobe Creative Suite to create original artwork. Students often use Drawing I and II as a pre-AP (Advanced Placement) opportunity, since students wishing to complete an AP Studio Art portfolio, or continue their artistic development in the IB program will have developed the necessary sophisticated set of skills to be successful. Moreover, they will have completed a number of exercises that reflect college level work in terms of composition, craftsmanship and creativity, and which can be used in either the AP or IB contexts.