The Arts
Introduction
Experiences in the arts – drama, music, and the visual arts – play a valuable role in the education of all students. Through participation in the arts, students can develop their creativity, learn about their own identity, and develop self-awareness, self-confidence, and a sense of well-being.
Learn more about our Arts Courses...
Drama
Drama, Grade 9, Open (ADA1O1)
This course provides opportunities for students to explore dramatic forms and techniques, using material from a wide range of sources and cultures. Students will use the elements of drama to examine situations and issues that are relevant to their lives. Students will create, perform, discuss, and analyse drama, and then reflect on the experiences to develop an understanding of themselves, the art form, and the world around them. No previous acting experience is required.
In this course students will:
- Learn the fundamentals of acting at a beginner level
- Learn basic drama theory and terminology
- Discover how actors, directors, and designers bring characters and scenes to life
- Improve their skills for creating, reflecting, performing, and working with others through independent and ensemble performances
- Learn to work collaboratively with your peers while working in small groups
- Learn to use the elements of drama, and the creative process to formulate, present and analyze works of drama
- Build self-confidence, and learn to speak/act in front of peers
Visual Arts
Grade 9, Visual Art, Open (AVI1O1)
This course is exploratory in nature, offering an overview of visual arts as a foundation for further study. Students will become familiar with the elements and principles of design and the expressive qualities of various materials by using a range of media, processes, techniques, and styles. Students will use the creative and critical analysis processes and will interpret art within a personal, contemporary, and historical context.
In this course students will:
- learn to draw step by step by improving observation and recording skills
- use a variety of strategies to generate ideas and develop plans for the creation of artworks
- explore elements and principles of design in guided projects
- explore new media and techniques in drawing, painting, printmaking and pottery
- learn how to discuss and analyze artworks
- No previous experience or skill is needed. This course is the foundation for all higher-level art courses.
Music
Grade 9, Instrumental Music, Open (AMU1O1)
This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life.
In this course students will:
- learn to play a band instrument at a beginner level
- create/compose music both individually and in a group setting
- learn basic music theory and terminology
- listen and respond to various styles of music
