COMMUNICATION ARTS DEPARTMENT
CHAIR: CHARLENE LOOPE
The Communication Arts program is designed to develop effective communication skills using technology. Students learn to use technology to create documents, drawings, slide shows, videos, graphic design layouts, photographs, publications and a variety of printed documents. The department seeks to integrate the use of technology into students' traditional courses and extend communication skills.
Computer Applications. [First Semester] This one-semester course is designed to meet the computer requirements for graduation and to ensure basic computer and information literacy. The main objectives of the course are to provide the student with the basic understanding of computers, peripheral equipment, and related software; to digital presentation skills; and to provide basic understanding of the use of technology for productivity and creativity. Course work will focus on the correct use and integration of all Microsoft Office applications and the generalization of those skills to other platforms and operating systems.
Grades 9 - 12
Graphic Arts. [First Semester and Second Semester] This one-semester course explores the theory of creative visual communication. Students will practice the principles of layout and design, and the effective use of illustration and photography. The course will include the use of a variety of design and image related hardware and software. The course is project based and the final assessment is a portfolio.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Middle School computer studies program or completion of the Computer Applications course or successful completion of the Computer Competency exam.
Grades 10 - 12
Computer Animation. [First Semester and Second Semester] This one-semester course explores the use of animation software to produce three dimensional computer animations. This involves the creation of 3-D objects for which digital skeletons are built and movements are assigned in a sequential time line to move objects through digital scenes. Skills developed include working with software, within three axes X, Y and Z, in a 3-D perspective, to produce objects and movement. The course is project based and the final assessment is a portfolio.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Middle School computer studies program or completion of the Computer Applications course or successful completion of the Computer Competency exam.
Grades 10 - 12
Desktop Publishing. [First Semester] This one-semester course is designed to provide students with the basic use and application of desktop publishing concepts and skills. Students will publish documents using word processing and desktop publishing programs: including MS Word, MS Publisher, and Paint Shop Pro. Students will gain hands-on experience by creating documents for use in their classes and school related activities.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Middle School computer studies program or completion of the Computer Application course or successful completion of the Computer Competency exam.
Grades 9 - 12
Computer Aided Design. [Second Semester] This one-semester course is designed for students interested in computer aided drawing. Students will study the creation process of drawings and sketches of buildings, maps, architectural plans, and other related designs. Students will gain experience with both two and three dimensional drawings.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Middle School computer studies program or completion of the Computers Application course or successful completion of the Computer Competency exam.
Grades 9 - 12
Introduction to Digital Filmmaking. [First Semester] This one-semester course is designed to provide students with a basic introduction to digital video production. Students will develop critical viewing skills and written, visual, and oral communication skills. The course work relies heavily on collaborative efforts among students. Assignments will include but are not limited to scavenger hunts, creating music videos, and developing a 10 minute documentary. Students will learn to use movie editing software. The class size is limited to maximize the ability for small group projects.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Middle School computer studies program or completion of the Computer Applications course or successful completion of the Computer Competency Exam.
Grades 10 - 12
Digital Filmmaking II. [Second Semester] This one-semester course is an intermediate course on the process and aesthetics of cinematography in digital filmmaking designed to improve student’s written, visual, and oral communication skills. Topics covered will include techniques in lighting and sound for the camera, continuity, editing, composition and camera angles. The course is designed for highly motivated students interested in refining their skills in filmmaking. Considerable time may be spent outside the formal classroom on location settings. Students will develop and complete a 20-minute documentary, a drama, and several other projects from pre-production stages through post-production stages. Each student will develop a portfolio of his or her work. The class size is limited to increase individual hands-on camera time.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Middle School computer studies program or completion of the Computer Applications course or successful completion of the Computer Competency exam AND successful completion of the Introduction to Videography course.
Grades 10 - 12
Journalism I. In this full-year course students learn how to identify and report news; write design and lay out the school newspaper, The Oak Leaf. Students are responsible for producing The Oak Leaf as they compile individual writing portfolios.
Grade 9-12
Journalism II. In this full-year course students extend their study of journalism as they analyze media ethics and policy, assume managerial responsibilities, create print and hypertext (on-line) editions of The Oak Leaf, and expand their portfolios through a concentration in one or more story genres (e.g., news, features, sports, reviews, or editorials). The students are responsible for producing The Oak Leaf for both print and on-line publication.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Journalism I.
Journalism III. This full-year course allows advanced journalism students to build their portfolios and editorial leadership skills in one or more specific genres or production areas. In addition, students develop their skills in electronic journalism, including writing and designing on-line publications, blogs, and other forms of new media. Students are responsible for all aspects of production of The Oak Leaf for both print and electronic publication.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Journalism I and II.
Journalism IV. This full-year course provides advanced journalism students the opportunity to build the portfolios and editorial leadership skills necessary for college-level publications work. In addition, students will develop advanced skills in in-depth reporting, editing and coaching, photojournalism, design, and convergence journalism, including writing and designing on-line publications, blogs, and other forms of new media. Students are responsible for all aspects of production of The Oak Leaf for both print and electronic publication.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Journalism I, II and III.
Fundamentals of Public Speaking. This one-semester course is designed to introduce students to the basic elements of communication, to provide practical experience in the preparation and presentation of speeches and classroom presentations, and to improve critical listening skills. Students will work together to improve their speaking, writing, and listening skills, in addition to developing confidence in public speaking.
Grades 10-12
Introduction to Film Analysis. In this one-semester course students will learn about important people and movements in film history and development as they explore a range of filmmakers and genres. The emphasis in this course will be on learning to speak and write about film with a critical eye and with a greater attention to style and theme. In addition to learning important terms related to filmmaking, students will complete a written assignment for each movie. These assignments will include critical essays, movie reviews, and creative stories inspired by films.
Grades 11-12