Academics
Junior High Practical Arts (Electives)
At the junior high level, the practical arts classes offered include:
Art
This course is designed to provide students with a general introduction to art. Students study basic art elements, such as color theory, perspective and design and a survey of art history from ancient times to present day. Art lab techniques include drawing, painting (water color and tempura), sculpture, construction, collage, crafts, animation, figure drawing and portraits. The art history component requires students to write and present an oral report about a favorite artist.
Home Economics
This course consists of 2 semester-long units: Foods and Nutrition and Clothing Construction.
Foods and Nutrition is a survey course in food preparation, snacks and light meals. Taught by a credentialed Home Economics teacher, the course begins with a look at nutrition and the body. In the kitchen, food safety and kitchen safety are stressed as the food units (bread, eggs, fruits/vegetables and meats) are presented. Meal planning and preparation tie the units together: The students learn how to make pleasing meals that are nutritionally balanced and prepared in a timely manner.
Clothing Construction
Basic sewing principles are emphasized in this class that prepares the students to handle sewing-related situations in everyday life. Students construct two simple projects and demonstrate sewing skills (both hand and machine) to complete the projects and make repairs to clothing.
Drama
This course is an elementary course introducing acting as a craft. It is a year-long study of movement, mime, puppetry, writing, directing and acting techniques. Students perform 3-4 productions learning vocabulary, creativity, expression, diction, teamwork and responsibility. Ninth graders write and direct skits and puppet shows for the school.