Visual and Performing Arts

Fundamentals of Art - P

COURSE NUMBER: A101
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 9th -12th grade

Fundamentals of Art is a comprehensive, semester-long course that provides students a foundation in the visual arts. Emphasis is placed on understanding the Elements of Art and Principles of Design as a basis for composition. Students will explore a variety of artists, art processes and materials using pencil, charcoal, ink, printmaking, two & three-dimensional design, technical drawing and digital art. Student artwork will reflect aesthetics & cultural and historical contexts. Willingness to get involved in the creative process is a more important requirement than the student's talent or previous experience.

Animation 1 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A171
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Fundamentals of Art (DLS) or Frosh Creation or Think, Make Share (CHS) or department approval
LEVEL: 9th -12th grade

In Animation students will create their own individual and group animations. Students will learn to storyboard, build animation puppets and use computer film editing software. Projects may include: Hand Drawn, Claymation, and Computer Animation. Students will also view cartoons from the earliest Mickey Mouse to the latest from Pixar and DreamWorks as they learn about this amazing industry's major historical and modern influences. This is a 5 credit semester course.

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Animation 2 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A172
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Animation 1
LEVEL: 10th -12th grade

Animation 2 continues the development of skills learned in Animation 1.  It is designed to improve and expand storyboarding, build animation puppets and use computer animation editing software. Projects may include: Hand Drawn, Claymation, and Computer Animation. Students will also view cartoons from the earliest Mickey Mouse to the latest from Pixar and DreamWorks as they learn about this amazing industry’s major historical and modern influences. This is a 5 credit semester course.

Applied Filmmaking - P

COURSE NUMBER: A377
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 9th -12th grade

Students will apply the industry standard techniques of filmmaking as a tool to communicate a story, express an idea, and connect to an audience.  They will learn the basic filmmaking principles: rule of thirds, establishing shots, camera angles, movements, storyboarding, and screenplay development.  Film editing and effects will be incorporated into final projects and presented to the class for critique and improvement.

Note:   Inactive for 2023-2024 school year. This course alternates with Scriptwriting.

Chorus I / II - P

COURSE NUMBER: A620
STATUS: UC/CSU  Approved
CREDITS: 5 or 10
CAMPUS: CHS
PREREQUISITES: None
Level:  9th-12th

Chorus is the fundamental starting point for all choral students. In this class, students learn the fundamentals of singing and develop the adolescent voice into a healthy musical instrument. We learn the basics of "how to" sing (Two and Three part choral music), the basic elements of reading music, and the development of skills such as reading music at sight and writing music by ear using musical notation. Students enrolled in this course will also have the opportunity to participate in choral concerts; one in winter and one in spring. At course end, students will have increased range, breath support, and confidence in singing as both an individual and a s a member of a choral ensemble. If requesting to take this course as a semester offering, this should be clearly indicated on the "Course Request Form" by noting (SEM) next to the course.

Note:  Chorus is a blended period 7. A detailed calendar is posted on Schoology which outlines the days for which students need to physically report to this class during period 7. Students will need to purchase choral attire (TBA) and a choral folder for participation in this class.

Chamber Choir (H) 

COURSE NUMBER: A666
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: CHS
PREREQUISITES: All students must audition with the Choral Director.  Auditions take place in April/May
LEVEL: 9th- 12th grade

Concert Choir (H) is a performance-based class that provides students with opportunities to further advance their vocal and musical skill, knowledge, and expression through the study of collegiate level choral literature. Students commit themselves to a rigorous performance schedule that includes a Christmas Concert, Visions of Christmas performances, Spring Concert, Liturgy performances, and the opportunity to travel and compete at the national level (trip costs varies; approximate cost is $500-$1000).

Note:  Chamber Choir (H) is a blended period 7 course that is scheduled for period 7 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. A detailed calendar is posted on Schoology which outlines the days for which students need to physically report to this class during period 7. If seeking instructor approval, an individual audition with the Choral Director must be arranged before enrolling in this course. Students will need to purchase choral attire (TBD) and choral folder for participation in this class.

Band - P

COURSE NUMBER: A561
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 9th and 12th grade

This musical ensemble focuses on preparation and performance of contemporary and traditional concert band and wind ensemble literature. Included in the curriculum are individual and ensemble performance techniques, sight-reading, music vocabulary, as well as aspects of music theory and history. Emphasis is on immediate practical application of skills. In the fall, parade and field show music and marching techniques will be explored. Performance is required at home football games, band reviews, parades, and school and community functions. As per the grading policy, members are required to attend all performances. This ensemble is considered the "core" of the De La Salle music program.

Concert Choir  - P

COURSE NUMBER: A667
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: CHS
PREREQUISITES: All students must audition with the Choral Director.  Auditions take place in April/May
LEVEL: 9th- 12th grade

Concert Choir is a performance-based class that provides students with opportunities to further advance their vocal and musical skill, knowledge, and expression through the study of collegiate-level choral literature. Students commit themselves to a rigorous performance schedule that includes a Christmas Concert, Visions of Christmas performances, Spring Concert, Liturgy performances, and the opportunity to travel and compete at the national level (trip costs vary; approximate cost is $500-$1000).

Note: Concert Choir is a blended period 7 course. A detailed calendar is posted on Schoology which outlines the days for which students need to physically report to this class during period 7. If seeking instructor approval, an individual audition with the Choral Director must be arranged before enrolling in this course. Students will need to purchase choral attire (TBD) and choral folder for participation in this class.

Instrumental Music - P

COURSE NUMBER: A563
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 9th and 12th grade

This course introduces the traditional instruments of the Band and the basics of harmony, rhythm, and analysis.  Students study the art of reading and interpreting music notation, perform music independently and with others, evaluate music by using critical thinking and listening skills, and participate in the community's cultural life through involvement in school and local music opportunities.

Jazz Band - P

COURSE NUMBER: A570
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Audition with instructor; concurrent enrollment in Band is required of brass, percussion, and woodwind players
LEVEL: 9th-12th grade

This is a music performance class with several goals; introduction of basic jazz techniques, including improvisation and performance of standard Jazz/Big Band repertoire. Other performance styles explored will range from swing, bebop to fusion and rock. The ensemble will consist of standard Big Band instrumentation: alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, trumpets, trombones, guitar, bass, piano, and drums. The ensemble will not only perform at home concerts but also perform at school rallies, athletic events, community functions, and concert festivals. As per the grading policy, members are required to attend all performances. Membership in this ensemble is by audition and instructor approval. Members of this ensemble must be concurrently enrolled in the Band (piano, guitar, and bass players may be exempted at the discretion of the director.)

Music Theory - P

COURSE NUMBER: A135
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 9th-12th grade

This course will introduce students to the theory of music, providing them with the skills needed to read and write music notation, as well as to understand, analyze, and listen informedly. It will cover material such as pitches, scales, intervals, clefs, rhythm, form, meter, phrases, ear training, harmony and basic composition techniques. The course will also be useful to experienced musicians with or without music notation skills who wish to improve overall musicianship. No previous musical experience is necessary.

Painting 1 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A121
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Fundamentals of Art (DLS) or Frosh Creation or Think, Make Share (CHS) or department approval
LEVEL: 9th -12th grade

This introductory course explores the creation of two-dimensional art, including painting and basic design principles using oil pastels, watercolor, acrylic. Emphasis is given to development and application of the elements of art and most importantly, to the establishing of a personal connection to art making. This is a 5 credit semester course.

Technical Theatre Design & Building - P

COURSE NUMBER: A375
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 9th-12th grade

Technical Theatre Design and Building gives students the opportunity to explore the world of theatre including the design and production of sets, props, lighting and sound. Through hands-on experience, students will learn how to safely and effectively operate power tools, experiment with stage lighting, build scenery and create soundscapes. Students will have an opportunity to peek behind the curtain and see what it takes to put on a stage production. In addition to technical skills, students develop their understanding of design, in theatre and beyond, through projects that use design concepts to create items for performance. Students will learn to express their ideas and interpretations through both group and independent learning in all aspects of technical theatre. In the second semester, students will act as the designers and technical crew for the performances of the Theatre 2 play.

Sculpture 1 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A116
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Fundamentals of Art (DLS) or Frosh Creation or Think, Make Share (CHS) or department approval
LEVEL: 9th-12th

Sculpture 1 is an in-depth look at the materials, techniques and principles involved in creating three-dimensional art. Techniques in hand forming, carving, assemblage and fabrication will be studied. Understanding static and kinetic art  is a major part of this program, and students will work in metal, plastic, plaster, Paper Mache and other media to create examples of each.  Drawing, design iteration, and concept development will also be an important component of this course.

Costume & Fashion Design - P

COURSE NUMBER: A667
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5 or 10 
CAMPUS: CHS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 10th, 11th and 12th grade

This is an introductory clothing design class that will focus on learning the basic skills required to design and build clothing, costumes and fashions. It teaches students the aesthetic aspects of two and three-dimensional design necessary to create sketches, designs, and actual articles of clothing. This includes skills such as design cutting, draping and stitching. This course also studies fashion trends throughout history from ancient times to modern day and includes an understanding of cultural, social, political and economic influences on fashion design. Opportunities for students to showcase work include participation in Company Shows, Dance Show(s) and a student produced fashion show.

Note: Fall semester and year-long options available. Students new to the course (who wish to take it for a semester) should enroll for the fall semester. Students who have previously taken the semester course may enroll for the spring semester. Students who have taken the year-long course may repeat the course if desired.

Engineering, Architecture, Drafting & Design 1 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A621
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Fundamentals of Art (DLS) or Frosh Creation or Think, Make Share (CHS) or department approval
LEVEL: 10th-12th grade

This course is an introduction to industrial drafting, design, visual recognition and proportion. Students will develop skills and understanding in drawing, visual recognition and proportioning through the use of drafting tools, CAD and symbols and language associated with the field. Emphasis will be also placed on developing the student's ability to design, utilizing tools, appropriate technology, symbols and language. There is also a construction component to this course involving the students completed designs, the creation of a model, and the exploration of structure and architectural aesthetics.

Engineering, Architecture, Drafting & Design 2 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A622
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Completion of Engineering, Architecture, Drafting & Design 1 (and department approval)
LEVEL: 10th-12th grade

This EADD 2 course continues the development of skills learned in EADD 1.  It is designed to improve and expand engagement of students in industrial drafting, design, visual recognition and proportion.  Students will develop skills and understanding in drawing, visual recognition and proportioning through the use of drafting tools, CAD and symbols and language associated with the field.  Emphasis will be also placed on developing the student's ability to design, utilizing tools, appropriate technology, symbols and language.  There is also a construction component to this course involving the student's completed designs, the creation of a model, and the exploration of structure and architectural aesthetics.  

Multi Media Design 1 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A181
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Fundamentals of Art (DLS) or Frosh Creation or Think, Make Share (CHS) or department approval
LEVEL: 9th -12th grade

The Multimedia Design course engages students in learning graphic design skills, visual communication, and design theory in order to explore various means to convey a message. The principles of visual design, the design process, and the history of 20th-century design will be taught and executed through projects. Students will learn to navigate the vast world of communication in media design and industry through making, analyzing, experiencing, problem-solving, and playing with the intent of conveying a message, idea, and information.  Hand and computer-based Drawing, design iteration, and concept development are integral components of this course. 

Multi Media Design 2 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A182
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Multi Media Design 1
LEVEL: 10th -12th grade

The Multi Media Design 2 course continues the development of skills learned in Multi Media Design 1.  The principles of visual design, the design process, and the history of 20th century design will be used to develop brand designs and the idea and ideology of branding and logo design.  Students will learn to navigate the vast world of communication in media design and industry through making, analyzing, experiencing, problem solving, and playing with the intent of conveying a message, idea, and information.  Hand and computer based drawing, design iteration, and concept development are an integral component of this course.  Students will have the opportunity to realize their designs with the use of computer based machines such as vinyl cutters, laser cutter, 3D printers and other computer directed machinery. course. 

Painting 2 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A122
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Painting 1
LEVEL: 10th -12th grade

Painting 2 continues the development of skills learned in Painting I. It is designed to improve and expand two-dimensional art techniques with an emphasis in painting, drawing and design. The course is intended to reinforce a deliberate use of the principles of design, and to help students develop a more personal voice in their art making. Students will deepen their critical skills and will develop a portfolio that will prepare them to attend an AP studio class should they choose to do so. They will study connections between art, art history and culture and will learn about ethics and careers in Art. This is a 5 credit semester course.

Photo and Film-P

COURSE NUMBER: A376
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: CHS
PREREQUISITES: Fundamentals of Art (DLS) or Frosh Creation or Think, Make Share (CHS) or department approval
LEVEL: 10th -12th grade

Students will create and critique photographs and films. The class will familiarize students with film and photography equipment, materials, methods and processes. The students will also be introduced to editing and manipulating images. They will also learn the history of photography and film from its invention to present day.

Theatre I - P

COURSE NUMBER: A367
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None (9th grade pathway for theatre based on audition)
LEVEL: 10th - 12th grade

Theatre I is an in-depth and immersive introduction to the craft of acting. This course breaks down the elements of vocal and physical techniques used to tell a story through improvisation, monologues, scene study, and workshops. In this course, students will find different ways to use performing arts to impact the world around them.

Theatre II - P

COURSE NUMBER: A368
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Theatre 1 or participation in a Company production
LEVEL: 10th -12th grade

Theatre II is a semester long collaborative production class. As an expansion and continuation of Theatre I, students will develop complex acting techniques, character development, script analysis and stage direction. The class will result in a full-length, student-directed production. This course collaborates with the Technical Theatre course offered at the same time. Students will be expected to perform in, direct, and produce rehearsed works with a goal of public performance. This semester course may be taken for 5 credits provided that the VPA requirement has been satisfied. VPA requirements include one year of Theatre 1 or participation in a Theatre Company production.

Scriptwriting - P

COURSE NUMBER: A378
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: None
LEVEL: 10th -12th grade

Students will focus on developing and submitting theatre scripts for class discussion and analysis.  They will articulate the industry for set, character, dialogue, conflict, subtext, and theme through narrative structure in a properly formatted script.  Students will use critical thinking skills to critique the work of published playwrights, peers, and their own writing.

Sculpture 2 - P

COURSE NUMBER: A123
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 5
CAMPUS: DLS
PREREQUISITES: Sculpture 1
LEVEL: 10th-12th

Sculpture 2 continues the development of skills learned in Sculpture 1.  It is designed to improve and expand in-depth look at the materials, techniques and principles involved in creating three-dimensional art.  Techniques in hand forming, carving, assemblage and fabrication will be studied.  Kinetics art and computer generated design design and manufactured parts will be a major part of this program, and students will work in metal, plastic, plaster, Paper Mache and other media.  Drawing, design iteration, and concept development will also be an important component of this course.

AP Art History

COURSE NUMBER: A262
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: CHS
PREREQUISITES: 1 Full Year of an art creation course, a teacher recommendation and: A grade of "B-" or higher in Honors English and Honors History; A grade of "A-" or higher in both English & History. and HNRS English, HNRS History: "B-" in both or higher; regular English/History "A-" or both or higher
LEVEL: 10th,11th and 12th

Explore the history of art across the globe from prehistory to the present. In this course, you’ll analyze works of art through observation, discussion, reading, and research. Skills You’ll Learn: Evaluating works of art from different eras and cultures Seeing connections to artistic traditions, styles, or practices in a work of art Developing a theory about the meaning of a work of art, and explaining and supporting your interpretation

Note:  This class is an art elective and does not fulfill the 10 united VPA requirement for graduation

AP 2-D Art and Design 

COURSE NUMBER: A260
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS and CHS
PREREQUISITES: CHS students should have TMS, DLS should have Fundamentals, and all should have one year of a visual arts class before seeking instructor approval to take this course. Students with experience outside of CHS/DLS can meet with AP Instructor to determine eligibility.
LEVEL: 11th and 12th grade

In AP Art and Design, students will deepen the skills that artists and designers use to create a portfolio which will be scored by the College Board. Students will select one of the three disciplines to focus their portfolio work: 2D Art, 3D Art, or Drawing. In this course, students will explore visual literacy for frameworks, practice design thinking, and create an inquiry-based portfolio of 15 artworks in accordance with the College Board criterion for success. Students may also choose to use this portfolio for college applications. In this course, students will explore visual literacy for frameworks, practice design thinking, and create an inquiry-based portfolio of 15 artworks in accordance with the College Board criterion for success. Students may also choose to use this portfolio for college applications. Specific areas of study include: 1. Ideation through investigation of different environmental aspects such as pop culture, current events, films, contemporary artist research, etc. 2. Observational drawing, printmaking, basics of web design, motion graphics, animation, and painting. 3. Documentation and organization of artwork including both finished work and work in progress. 4. Journaling and reflective writing sessions students. These will result in artistic statements that reflect inquiry outcomes such as aesthetic sense, personal artistic voice, and creative confidence.

Note:  Students are required to start their portfolio by completing three projects over the summer. See the AP instructor for the assignments.

AP Drawing - P

COURSE NUMBER: A160
STATUS: UC/CSU Approved
CREDITS: 10
CAMPUS: DLS and CHS
PREREQUISITES: CHS students should have TMS, DLS should have Fundamentals, and all should have one year of a visual arts class before seeking instructor approval to take this course. Students with experience outside of CHS/DLS can meet with AP Instructor to determine eligibility.
LEVEL: 11th and 12th grade

In AP Art and Design, students will deepen the skills that artists and designers use to create a portfolio which will be scored by the College Board. Students will select one of the three disciplines to focus their portfolio work: 2D Art, 3D Art, or Drawing. In this course, students will explore visual literacy for frameworks, practice design thinking, and create an inquiry-based portfolio of 15 artworks in accordance with the College Board criterion for success. Students may also choose to use this portfolio for college applications. Specific areas of study include: 1. Ideation through investigation of different environmental aspects such as pop culture, current events, films, contemporary artist research, etc. 2. Observational drawing, printmaking, basics of web design, motion graphics, animation, and painting. 3. Documentation and organization of artwork including both finished work and work in progress. 4. Journaling and reflective writing sessions students. These will result in artistic statements that reflect inquiry outcomes such as aesthetic sense, personal artistic voice, and creative confidence.

Note: Students are required to start their portfolio by completing three projects over the summer. See the AP instructor for the assignments.