Curriculum

Curriculum Structured for Heide Trask High School, Rocky Point, NC

Art I is a foundation level class that introduces the student to artistic concepts and processes. Technical development focuses on drawing and design skills, with both 2 and 3 dimensional projects. Aesthetics, criticism and art history are introduced, including reading, research, writing and experiencing. Interdisciplinary focus is on literacy, and the connections between verbal and visual literacy. Art I follows the NCSCS for Art I.

Art II is an intermediate level class that expands on the knowledge and skills gained in art one and explores the connections between critical and creative thinking. Technical development focuses on applied design principles and composition. Creativity is approached through journal assignments that encourage open-ended creative solutions. Aesthetics, criticism and art history are applied through academic work, critiques and the beginning development of the student’s individual concept of art. Interdisciplinary focus is on the individual: physically, mentally and socially. Collaborative art making is introduced. Art II follows the NCSCS for Art II.

Art III is a proficiency level class that provides the student with the opportunity to expand on their individual talents and interests. Technical focus is on strengthening areas that need improvement, refining proficient skills and experimenting with new media. Creative and critical thinking are applied through creative journaling, planning and issue-based problem solving. Aesthetics, criticism and art history are applied through academic work, critiques and continued development of the student’s individual philosophy. Interdisciplinary focus is on environmental literacy; with the inclusion of a collaborative art based environmental service project. Art III follows the NCSCS for Art III.

Art IV is an advanced level class that offers individual in-depth study and development of art. Students work independently to produce portfolios that address their technical and conceptual development as an artist. Academic inquiry into aesthetics, criticism and art history is required. Creative journal exploration leads to innovative visual responses. Interdisciplinary focus is on the role of the artist in the community, and service learning. Collaborative and independent service projects are required as well as a digital and physical portfolio of work. Art IV follows the NCSCS for Art IV.

Internship: Off and on campus internships are offered in the arts. On campus, studio apprentices assist with the care of the studio, setting up for classes, tutoring and assisting with school projects. Off campus internships are arrange with other schools (internship in art education), businesses (internship in commercial printing) and organizations (internship with the arts council). Internships are available to seniors with approval of administration.

Independent Study: Independent study in visual art is intended for the student who has completed the art courses, has scheduling conflicts or an art based senior project. Students must arrive at and sign a contract with the teacher, parent and administration. On-line sections of independent study are available for homebound or nontraditional students. Independent study aligns with the NCSCS for the appropriate level.

Crafts I is a foundation level class that explores world cultures and life experiences through art media. Technical focus is on 2 and 3 dimensional media and processes, both traditional and innovative. Cultural context, life application and artistic expression are part of each project. Weekly academic work includes a related cultural reading and written reflective response to that reading. Interdisciplinary focus is on world cultures and human development. Crafts I follows the NCSCS for art electives.

Crafts II is an intermediate level class that provides students the opportunity to increase their understanding of and application of crafts. Technical focus is on crafts of greater complexity with an emphasis on mixed media processes. Cultural context, life application and artistic expression are part of each project. A journal is kept that includes creative prompts, reflections on class content and process papers. Interdisciplinary focus is on the connection between world cultural practices and individual psychological needs. Crafts II follows the NCSCS for art electives.