Art 1

It is a practical subject that encourages discovery through experimentation, the taking of risks and the presentation of ideas to others. It results in the development of both theatre and life skills; the building of confidence, creativity and working collaboratively. The IB Diploma Programme theatre course is a multifaceted theatre-making course of study. It gives learners the opportunity to make theatre as creators, designers, directors and performers. It emphasizes the importance of working both individually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble. It offers the opportunity to engage actively in the creative process, transforming ideas into action as inquisitive and productive artists.

Theatre 2 is a course on the deeper mechanics, techniques, and theories of the art of theatre. There are three major components to this course, which culminate in the learner’s individual ability to produce a meaningful piece of theatre. One focus of the course is an acting intensive, using a well-researched, respected technique. The second focus is on the study of the scene as a cohesive unit of theatre. The third is the analysis of a complete play script, from the points of view of actor, director, and designer.

Theater 1 is an introductory course in theatre as an art form. The course includes an overview of theatre history and theory, world theatre traditions, and basic acting technique. The object of the course is to give learners another outlet for artistic expression, an appreciation for the art and history of theatre, a sense of cultural involvement and discovery, and a foundation for potential future involvement in the theatre community. The course will culminate in the learners building their own theatrical experiences, informed by the activities and research undertaken throughout the whole of the course and their own understanding of the nature of theatre.

Involving aspects of the composition, performance and critical analysis of music, the course exposes learners to forms, styles and functions of music from a wide range of historical and socio-cultural contexts. Learners create, participate in, and reflect upon music from their own background and those of others. They develop practical and communicative skills, which provide them with the opportunity to engage in music for further study, as well as for lifetime enjoyment.

During the course of this year-long class, students will learn music theory through the application of basic piano fundamentals and by studying and analyzing various compositional techniques throughout the history of written music. Students will also learn how to use music technology software programs and recording equipment, and will become experienced at writing, recording, and performing their own original compositions. Through class performance workshops, students will gain the ability to constructively critique the musical compositions and performances given by their peers. Students will research various careers within the music industry and understand the difference between major labels and independent labels, how recording advances work, and how royalty payments are calculated. Lastly, students will build their own websites, display their original music recordings, and learn how to market and distribute their music through an online platform.

Music I is an introductory level music course, which exposes learners to music from different time periods, cultures, and genres. As students build their vocabulary with musical terminology and music theory knowledge, they also shape their awareness of the impact that society has on music, and that music has on society. As a result, learners will develop respect and appreciation for music as an art form, and the ability to communicate intelligently about their own aesthetic values of music. There is no prerequisite to this class. Students from all musical backgrounds and skill levels are welcome. All five-strand components of the California Visual and Performing Arts Content Standards are represented and aligned to course objectives and assignments.

Throughout the duration of this year-long class, learners will examine the basic building blocks of music to discover how they work together to form the structure inside of a piece of music. Learners will develop a musical vocabulary, and be able to compare and contrast music from across different time periods, genres, and cultures. The expected outcomes of this class are for learners to understand the effects of cultural and historical events on musical genres, be able to speak intelligently about music using musical terminology, communicate defining characteristics specific to each musical genre, critique musical performances, and analyze the form, instrumentation, and compositional techniques of various pieces of music.

This is a course for learners who have a serious interest in the visual arts. The course has specific criteria set for both studio work and investigation work (Investigative Work Books (IWB)) which are clearly defined by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) in its subject guide for the visual arts.

Over the 2-year course learners will be exposed to a variety of media and techniques to develop their skills and understanding of the elements of the visual arts. Learners will develop and maintain a close relationship between investigation and their creative process in studio work. Learners will produce personally relevant works of art that reveal evidence of exploration of ideas that reflect cultural and historical awareness while developing a personal style. Learners will also have the opportunity to develop their own themes and to choose media preferences.

All of the efforts of the learner lead up to a final examination at the end of the 2- year course. The learners must then exhibit their studio work, show their IWB and discuss their development during an interview with an external examiner.

The integrated relationship between studio work and investigation work is essential throughout the course. Learners are given a choice on the direction they would like to take and be assessed on (Options A & B) at the end of the 2-year course.

Visual Arts 2 continues to develop technique, craftsmanship and concepts of design with emphasis on marketing and branding and various artistic movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Learners use research and draft processes to further the quality of their work. Learners will continue to build on their development of technical skills by using a variety of medium to create both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional projects. The curriculum will focus on how are communicates, 20th century art history and are movements, and art production. Many of the projects covered in this course will be integrated with the learners’ core curriculum in other subjects so learners can make cross connections.

The visual arts course covers concepts of design with emphasis on the development of good composition and craftsmanship (beautiful work). Learners will use a variety of material to create 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional projects. The curriculum will focus on art history, art movements, and art production. Many of the projects covered in this course will be integrated with the learners’ core curriculum in other subjects so learners can make cross connections.