related Arts

Art

Art fundamentals provides an introduction to the basic techniques and processes of design, incorporating both two-dimensional and three-dimensional concepts. Through meaningful and challenging studio projects, as well as the study of art history, criticism and aesthetics, students will begin to develop the creative thinking and problem-solving skills demanded in our global society.  (No Prerequisite – Year-long course)

This course allows students who have successfully completed Art Fundamentals to further develop their skills while learning more advanced techniques and processes. Through meaningful and challenging studio art lessons, students will deepen their understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which art is created, while visually expressing their own views about their place in the world today. (Prerequisite: Art Fundamentals – Semester elective)

Advanced Art is a continuation of skill development through in-depth studio projects. Emphasis will be on individual style, techniques, and quality of work. Media and processes will vary from year to year.  (Prerequisite:  Intermediate Art)

Students will learn and apply fundamentals of various software applications (such as Illustrator and Photoshop), web design, image editing, drawing, and graphic animation. Advertising and marketing projects coordinate technical skills with organization, management, communication, ethics, and teamwork. Students will be given challenging real-world projects and assignments, typical of the graphic design industry.  High-quality work is expected, and students will be given opportunities to redo work until it meets standards specified during instruction.  Classroom activities will include reading, research, projects, and problem solving.  Students will often work in teams, but will be expected to complete individual assignments in relation to the team’s work.  Assessment methods will include written exams, tests, and quizzes, oral and written research reports, reading assignments, and projects.  There is a course fee of $20.00. (Prerequisite:  Art Fundamentals)

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and applications of digital photography as a medium, a skill-set, and an integral part of today’s digital literacy needs. Students will learn how to find, compose, and capture compelling images using digital cameras while emphasizing the manipulation of camera controls, lighting, and digital imaging software for photo correction and output. Students must have an approved digital camera with manual functions (preferably a DSLR) and a memory card.  (No Prerequisite – Semester elective)

This is an introductory course in the essentials of black & white film photography and darkroom processes. Students will learn how to find, compose, and capture compelling images using 35mm SLR cameras while emphasizing the manipulation of camera controls, lighting, and darkroom techniques.  Topics include composition, communication, and lighting with an emphasis on the elements and principles of art.  A $100.00 fee covers the cost of film and other materials. (Prerequisite: Art Fundamentals – Semester elective)

Music

Prep Choir is a performing vocal ensemble for any high school student who has not been a member of a PSM band or choir for at least one year, and desires to expand their skills as a singer and musician. Students rehearse and perform music in a variety of styles and in the process develop music reading skills and an appreciation of music. This choir will be required to perform in at least four performances each year. (Year-long course)

Chamber Choir is the vocal ambassador for Providence St. Mel School. This choir challenges itself to be a college-level performance ensemble with motivated and musically literate students. These high school students must have successfully completed two years in a PSM choir or band (or can test out of the second level of musical skills). Emphasis is placed on individual vocal development.  Students will master advanced works in a variety of styles. The choir will be required to perform approximately eight to ten times per year. (Year-long course. Prerequisite: Audition or permission of the teacher)

 

Beginning Band is designed for the high school student with little or no instrumental experience.  Emphasis is placed on fundamental skills of instrumental performance, with study and performance of grade one repertoire from various styles and periods of history. Basic music theory is introduced. Two performances each year are required. This course requires additional fees for equipment rental.

Symphonic Band is designed for the advanced instrumentalist; entry is by audition or instructor recommendation. Emphasis is placed on the advanced skills of musical performance, with study and performance of grade three repertoire and above from various styles and periods of history. The class will include the study of advanced music theory and harmony. Four performances, one adjudicated contest, and one clinic per year are required. This course requires additional fees for equipment rental.

 

Physical Education & Dance

Dance class is open to students in Grades K-12.  Classes are grouped by age level: K-2, 3-5, Middle School, and High School.  Students learn basics of ballet, jazz, and modern dance and work together to perform as an ensemble in creating and choreographing their dances.  All dance classes perform together in a recital in the spring

This course is designed to give the students the opportunity to learn fitness and conditioning techniques used for obtaining optimal physical fitness. Students will learn the basic fundamentals of overall fitness training and conditioning. This course includes both lecture on the history and rules of specific sports and activity sessions. The HEALTH portion of the class will cover the following topics: human ecology and health, human growth and development, the emotional, psychological, physiological, hygienic, social responsibilities of family life including sexual abstinence until marriage and evidence-based and medically accurate information regarding sexual abstinence; prevention and control of diseases including instruction on the prevention, transmission, and spread of AIDS; public and environmental health, consumer health, safety education and disaster survival; alcohol/drug use, and abuse including the medical and legal ramification of alcohol, drug, and tobacco use; abuse during pregnancy; tobacco, nutrition, and dental health; and cancer, including signs and symptoms, risk factors, the importance of early prevention and detection, and information on where to go for help. The course will also provide course material and instruction to advise pupils of the Abandoned Newborn Infant Protection Act.