Elective Classes
Elective Classes
Computer Science
Grade 6 - Computing Ideas & Introduction to Java
Course Overview and Goals
The Computing Ideas course is a first-year computer science course introducing the basics of programming with Karel the Dog, the basics of designing a web page, and how information is represented digitally and sent over the Internet. Students will learn to code using blocks to drag and drop, but they can switch between blocks and text as desired. Students will create a personal portfolio website showing projects they build throughout the course. With a unique focus on creativity, problem solving and project-based learning, Computing Ideas gives students the opportunity to explore several important topics of computing using their own ideas and creativity to develop an interest in computer science that will foster further endeavors in the field.
Grade 7 - Introduction to Web Design & Virtual Reality
Course Overview and Goals
In today's world, web pages are the most common medium for sharing ideas and information. Learning to design websites is an incredibly useful skill for any career path. The CodeHS Web Design course is a project-based course that teaches students how to build their own web pages. Students will learn the languages HTML and CSS, and will create their own live homepages to serve as portfolios of their creations. By the end of this course, students will be able to explain how web pages are developed and viewed on the Internet, analyze and fix errors in existing websites, and create their very own multi page websites.
Introduction to Virtual Reality is a mini-course that introduces students to the basics of building virtual reality worlds using HTML and the A-Frame JavaScript Library. Through this course, students will build their own virtual reality worlds that are compatible with VR devices, including smartphone VR headsets!.
Grade 8 - Introduction to Python 3 & 3D Printing
Course Overview and Goals
The CodeHS introduction to Computer Science in Python 3 curriculum teaches the foundations of computer science and basic programming, with an emphasis on helping students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Once students complete the CodeHS Introduction to Computer Science in Python course, they will have learned material equivalent to a semester college introductory course in Computer Science and be able to program using Python 3. Students will learn how to create 3D designs using a user-friendly online program, they will learn how to design their ideas using a CAD software that transforms their designs into a 3D model. They will then be able to print their designs using our 3D printers.
Visual Arts Curriculum
Course Descriptions
Studio Art (Grade 6)
An entry-level course designed for ALL students to help increase their creative abilities through artistic expression. Studio Art is designed to provide a foundation for advanced courses. Emphasis is placed on understanding the Elements of Art and Principles of Design as a basis for composition. Students will be introduced to a variety of skills and media including: drawing, painting, the elements of art and principles of design, color theory, the critical process, and keeping a sketchbook journal. Willingness to get involved in the creative process is a more important requirement than the student’s talent or previous experience. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in creative thinking, problem solving, and craftsmanship.
Foundation I: Drawing & Painting (Grade 7)
This course emphasizes the materials, techniques, processes, history, and language of art through the lens of Drawing & Painting. Chosen by those students who have developed an interest in the arts; this course introduces or enhances drawing skills, as well as, presents the basics of using paint as a coloring medium. This course will demonstrate various drawing techniques and students will become familiar with the proper use of tempera, watercolor and acrylic paints while working in different painting styles. Sketchbooks and portfolio development are essential components.
Foundation II: Printmaking & Sculpture (Grade 8)
This course emphasizes the materials, techniques, processes, history, and language of art through the lens of Printmaking & Sculpture. Building on the content learned in Foundation I, this course introduces students to a range of printmaking and sculpture methods and approaches. Students will make a range of original prints as well as a be presented with a broad overview of contemporary 3D practice; introducing students to the conceptual and practical tools necessary to make sculpture. Students are given the opportunity to develop independent approaches in style, development, and artistic problem solving. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in creative thinking, problem solving, drawing, and craftsmanship.
Sketchbooks and portfolio development are essential components.
Grade 6- Foundations of Musicianship and Music Performance Practices
Course is based in music literacy, and develops the skills of reading standard rhythmic and melodic notation accurately throughout all units/topic covered.
Topics covered-
- Reading melodic notation in both treble and bass clef.
- Recorder techniques and performance basics
- Reading rhythmic notation uses notation in conjunction with bucket drumming techniques and performance basics.
At the conclusion of our recorder studies, students may be offered the opportunity to study Traditional/Concert Band instruments, Modern/Rock Band instruments, Guitar, or Ukelele in place of Bucket Drumming. This is taken on a case-by-case basis, and varies with student interests, experience, and school inventories.
Students are also offered the opportunity to participate in the 6th Grade After School Band. Here they will have the chance to choose and learn some basics of playing a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument (students choose).
Grade 7 and 8 - Traditional/Concert Band
Students learn proper techniques and performance practices of woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments.
Instruments offered are-
Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium/Baritone Horn, Tuba, Percussion.
We also have a few “rare” instruments that can be studied in this class– French Horn, Bass Clarinet, and Baritone Saxophone.
Students will also have the opportunities to play outside of school in other city-wide offered programs, such as the Saturday program called, “Salute to Music”, and “MEANYC All County Festival”. Students will be issued their own personal school instrument to use the entire two years (grades 7 and 8.)
*Grade 7 specific – We will start with students choosing their preferred instrument to study. We will then use the method book, “Standard of Excellence” in order to develop our personal and group musicianship skills. Proper techniques will be studied and emphasized in addition to our musical literacy basis. *
*Grade 8 specific- We will continue working with more advanced techniques and repertoire. In this course, students will be choosing the majority of the pieces/songs that they will be learning to play (with teacher guidance). I also offer assistance in audition preparations for arts based high schools as students need. *
Grade 7 and 8- Modern/Rock Band
Continuing with the basis of musical literacy, as students learn proper techniques and performance practices of string, keyboard, and percussion instruments.
Instruments offered are- Ukelele, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Bass, Electronic Keyboard, Percussion. (Students can also sing!)
Students who play guitar and ukelele will be issued their own personal school instrument to use the entire two years (grades 7 and 8.)
Students will be choosing the majority of the songs/repertoire that they will be learning to play (with teacher guidance).
*Grade 7 specific – We will start with students choosing their preferred instrument to study. We will then use a wide variety of resources, including, “Music Will”, “Brooklyn Guitar Method”, and “youtube.com”, in order to develop our personal and group musicianship skills. Proper techniques will be studied and emphasized, in addition to our musical literacy basis. *
*Grade 8 specific - We will continue working with more advanced techniques and repertoire, in addition to our musical literacy basis. *
