
Fine & Performing Arts Department![]() The commitment to individual and spiritual development at Ursuline High School is reflected in the philosophy and practices of the Fine and Performing Arts Department. The department’s goals and objectives reflect the mission of Ursuline High School and student motivation, performance, and achievement are enriched through the study and analysis of the various genres within the fine arts. Courses generate an appreciation for the arts and develop self-confidence, self-esteem, poise, self-motivation, dedication, perseverance, and responsibility. The primary focus of the department’s instruction and methodology is the holistic development of all students. All students must complete one full credit in the Fine and Performing Arts in order to meet graduation requirements. A variety of courses are offered to meet individual students needs and interests. Faculty![]() Mr. Edward L. Victor - Chairperson ![]() Mrs. Janice O’Neill
![]() Mr. John Peplowski ![]() Mrs. Joan Williams Course DescriptionsArt CoursesDrama Courses
Music Courses
Art CoursesART I![]() GRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit Art I is a basic visual and tactile experience whereby students use and apply various media and artistic techniques. This course develops in students an understanding of visual elements in regard to form, line, shape, color, value, texture and a perception of aesthetic awareness.
ART IIGRADES 10-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit In Art II, emphasis is placed upon creative interaction with various visual art media. This course will develop the student’s ability to establish expression and creative problem solving in design. Major artists and their techniques will be presented to introduce students to basic elements of art history. PRE-REQUISITE: C OR BETTER IN ART I
ART IIIGRADES 11-12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit Art III initiates the development of personal artistic style through the use of complex creative design problems. This course will establish an understanding and appreciation of the significance of various period artists through an exploration of their technique and style. PRE-REQUISITE: B OR BETTER IN ART II
ART IVGRADE 12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit Art IV is a studio art course that emphasizes the development of a personal technique and style in one major and one minor area of artistic expression. The preparation and presentation of a personal portfolio will be required. The course may be repeated with the teacher’s approval. PRE-REQUISITE: TEACHER APPROVAL
MULTIMEDIA ARTS IGRADES 10-12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit Multimedia Arts I incorporates state of the art technology in the creation of digital video productions. Students will create and produce computer generated visual art projects using a wide range of software geared for the manipulation of images and audio-visual editing. PRE-REQUISITE: TEACHER APPROVAL
CERAMICS IGRADE 12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit Ceramics I is a basic course in pottery construction using both coil and slab techniques. Students will be encouraged to apply basic skills in creating decorative and utilitarian pieces. Firing techniques and glazing application will be explored.
CERAMICS II![]() GRADE 12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit Ceramics II emphasizes in greater depth the process, methods, and concepts used in pottery construction. Students will investigate various methods of pottery and glazing techniques with an emphasis on creative design and self-expression. PRE-REQUISITE: CERAMICS I
Drama CoursesTHE MUSICAL: ON BROADWAY & IN FILMGRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit This course explores the uniquely American art form of Musical Theater from the old classics to contemporary award winners. The Best of Broadway will be studied and viewed. The translation of Broadway hits to film will also be explored featuring such great hits as West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Phantom of the Opera, and Rent.
STAGECRAFT![]() GRADES 9 - 12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit This course will introduce students to the basics of theater production that take place on stage, behind the scenes and off stage. Topics to be studied include: acting, set construction, lighting, sound, costuming, make up, prop design, and stage management. Hands-on activities will be emphasized.
FILM STUDYGRADES 11-12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit Film Study is a one semester elective, open to juniors and seniors. Students will be introduced to the technical, historical and theoretical aspects of filmmaking. Units to be covered include the following: Cinematography and Image, Movement, Editing, Sound, Acting, The Documentary, The Director, Film Criticism and Contemporary Issues in Film.
PLAY PERFORMANCE![]() GRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1/4 credit Academic credit is available to any student who has been selected for the cast or crew of an Ursuline High School theatre production. Students must apply for this credit and keep a log of their hours that must include involvement in the many facets of a live performance. All requirements will be spelled out after students have been selected for the cast/crew. Credit is awarded on a Pass/Fail basis. PREREQUISITE: DIRECTOR APPROVAL
SPEECH & DEBATE TEAM PERFORMANCEGRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1/4 credit Academic credit is also available to any student who has been selected for the Speech and Debate Team. Students must apply for this credit through the Speech and Debate Coach. All requirements will be reviewed when the competitive season starts. Credit is awarded on a Pass/Fail basis. PREREQUISITE: TEACHER APPROVAL
Music Courses![]() MARCHING / CONCERT BANDGRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit Students will develop musicianship coordinated with movement and expression, appreciate the many varieties of music, work as a unit to reach a common goal, gain confidence in their individual talents, maximize their musical potential and experience all facets of musical training and performance. Marching Band begins in July and runs the length of the football season. Performances include all football games, OMEA competitions, band night performances, rallies, and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The Marching Band performs in concert in December and at the December liturgy. STUDENTS MUST BE ABLE TO PLAY AN INSTRUMENT OR BE WILLING TO STUDY A PARTICULAR INSTRUMENT. STUDENTS ENROLLED IN MARCHING/CONCERT BAND ALL YEAR QUALIFY FOR THE BAND SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS. PRIVATE LESSONS ARE ENCOURAGED.
![]() CONCERT BANDGRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit Concert Band begins second semester and runs throughout the remainder of the year. Performances include the spring concert, OMEA District contests, the fine arts assembly, and the optional spring competition trip. Students will gain an appreciation of the varieties of music, gain confidence in their individual talents, and maximize their musical potential. PRIVATE LESSONS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED. PREREQUISITE: TEACHER APPROVAL
COLOR GUARD![]() GRADES 10-12 ELECTIVE 1/4 credit The Marching Band Color Guard is open to any girl in grades 10 through 12. The color guard is comprised of a flag line, dance line, and baton twirlers. All candidates must have the skills necessary to perform in one of these three areas of expertise. Acceptance is based upon an audition. All participants must attend Band Camp and be willing to purchase their uniforms and accessories. Participants will follow the Marching Band schedule of events and abide by the rules and regulations of the Band. PRIVATE LESSONS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED. PREREQUISITE: SUCCESSFUL AUDITION AND ATTENDANCE AT AUGUST BAND CAMP
HISTORY OF ROCK 'N ROLLGRADES 10-12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit This course will make students more aware of the people and events that led to the birth and evolution of Rock ‘n Roll. Through discussions, recordings, and videos, students will gain a better understanding of the history of the Rock ‘n Roll era and the tremendous influence it has had on other musical styles. Students will also develop an appreciation of all musical styles by comparing and contrasting current musical styles and trends with the past.
BACH TO ROCKGRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1/2 credit This course is designed to make students more aware of how music has evolved over the last 400 years. Students will learn music fundamentals and terminology to help them better understand music. Through active participation, discussion, recordings, and video, students will better understand and appreciate musical styles and will develop critical listening skills. Career opportunities in the music field will also be explored.
![]() CHOIRGRADES 9-12 ELECTIVE 1/4 credit Choir participants will learn various genres of vocal music including show tunes and popular music. Emphasis will be placed on the performance aspects of vocal music. Students will be required to participate in public concert performances. The class will meet two days per week for one semester; students will be assigned to a study hall during the remaining three days. Since the musical selections will change each semester, students may repeat this course multiple times for their Fine Art credit. |
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