ENGLISH

Credit Course Number and Description Requirements

0.5 credit Grade 9

207 Gateway Seminar

In this one-semester course, students develop useful mental habits that are essential for lifelong learning, success, and well-being. Through a project-based approach, students build their emotional intelligence and creative confidence. Topics include collaborative problem-solving, applied digital skills, digital citizenship, Holy Cross leadership, and effective learning strategies

1 credit Grade 9

213 English 9

Course readings include novels, short stories, plays and poetry, read through the lens of personal and community identity. Students will read both classic and contemporary literature and will be instructed in narrative, literary analysis, and nonfiction writing. This course will include the study of grammar and vocabulary.

1 credit Grade 9

214 Honors English 9

This course takes a more intensive study of novels, short stories, plays and poetry including more sophisticated texts, read through the lens of personal and community identity. Students will read both classic and contemporary literature and will be instructed in narrative, literary analysis, and nonfiction writing. This course will include the study of grammar and vocabulary

❏ Placed through admissions process

1 credit Grade 10

221 English 10

Read through the lens of social justice and marginalized peoples, students will critically interpret literature, both fiction and nonfiction, with an emphasis on critical thinking and rhetorical theory. Students will develop the fundamentals of academic writing, MLA style research, text-based discussion, copyediting, and vocabulary.

1 credit Grade 10

222 Honors English 10

Through the lens of social justice and marginalized peoples, students will read more sophisticated literature, both fiction and nonfiction, with an emphasis on critical thinking and rhetorical theory. Students will develop the fundamentals of academic writing, MLA style research, text-based discussion, copyediting, and vocabulary.

❏ Honors English 9 (B) or English 9 (A)

❏ Recommendation

1 credit

Grade 11

237 English 11

Students will survey American literature through novels, short stories, essays, plays, speeches, poetry, film, and podcasts. Students will analyze texts through close reading and discussion, while strengthening writing skills, research skills, grammar, and vocabulary. They will complete a 1500 word research thesis paper centered around a book of choice Students will experience narrative, literary analysis, and research writing concentrating on voice and style

1 credit Grade 11

238 Honors English 11

Students will survey American literature through novels, short stories, essays, plays, speeches, poetry, film, and podcasts. Students will analyze texts through close reading and discussion, while strengthening writing skills, research

❏ Honors English 10 (B) or English 10 (A)

❏ Recommendation

1 credit Grade 11 skills, grammar, and vocabulary. They will complete a 1500 word research thesis paper centered around a book of choice Students will experience narrative, literary analysis, and research writing concentrating on voice and style

231 AP English Language and Composition

Students will read historical speeches and essays studying rhetoric and the power of persuasion This is an intense writing course in preparation for advanced college courses and the AP exam in English Language and Composition. In addition, students will read fiction, plays, and short stories by American authors with extensive analysis and discussion Students will write synthesis, rhetorical analysis, and argumentative essays

1 credit Grade 12 244 English 12

This survey course features an intensive study of classic and influential world literature from a variety of time periods, while preparing students for college-level writing Students will read & analyze short stories, novels, plays, essays, and poetry and engage in a variety of formal and informal writings, including literary analysis essays, narrative essays, and a research paper.

1 credit Grade 12 246 Honors English

12

This survey course features an intensive study of classic and influential world literature from a variety of time periods, while preparing students for college-level writing. Successful completion of the senior thesis paper, which meets the minimum qualifications for an acceptable entry-level college essay, is a graduation requirement.

❏ Honors English 10 (B) or English 10 (A)

❏ Recommendation

❏ Writing sample

1 credit Grade 12

241 AP English Literature and Composition

The AP English Literature and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level literary analysis course. The course engages students in the close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work's structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works. Successful completion of the senior thesis paper, which meets the minimum qualifications for an acceptable entry-level college essay, is a graduation requirement.

❏ AP English Lang (B) or English 11 (A)

❏ Recommendation

❏ AP English Lang (B) or English 11 (A)

❏ Recommendation

❏ Writing sample

0.5 credit Grade 11-12

Elective

* 242 Black Lit Matters: A Survey of African American Literature

This course will survey African American literature from the 1700s to the present, serving as an introduction to great works of black literary expression and an invitation to explore what exactly constitutes African American literature. Students will chronologically examine how African American literature has evolved from slavery to present day

0 5 credit Grade 11-12

Elective

* 243 Contemporary Film and Criticism

Students view a number of contemporary films and critique the films based on theme, direction, characterization and photography. Selected works may include documentaries, historical fiction, and films that investigate contemporary issues and culture. The writing portion of this course will emphasize composition skills and literary analysis.

0.5 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 278 Creative Writing

Students will exercise and enhance their creativity through low-pressure writing opportunities, peer editing, and weekly sharing sessions, as they pre-write, draft, and revise poetry, short stories, and other creative works Whether they are already bursting with creativity or seeking help with writing, this class will increase students' ability to use a variety of writing skills in artistic ways.

0.5 credit Grade 11-12

Elective

* 279

Advanced Creative Writing

This class encourages students to continue developing skills gained in the Creative Writing course. Students will experiment in new styles and genres, work independently to set individual goals, and collaborate with other writers through workshops and other activities.

Creative Writing and Advanced Creative Writing meet concurrently

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 281 Journalism 1

Journalism 1-4 meet concurrently

Students in this course produce the school newspaper, and are considered the official staff of The Stampede. Working as reporters, editors, photographers or designers, students learn interviewing techniques, copy editing, photojournalism, page layout and the basics of news, sports and feature writing. All students have the opportunity to write articles and editorials about a variety of subjects, for publication online or in print.

❏ Creative Writing

❏ Recommendation

❏ Attend and report on school events

1 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

* 286 Honors Journalism 2

Journalism 1-4 meet concurrently

These experienced students oversee production of the newspaper and pursue advanced skills in interviewing, photography, editing, writing and page design. As leaders of the newspaper staff, these students also gain specialized knowledge in approaches to newsroom management, Associated Press style, design software and modern trends in the news industry.

❏ Journalism 1

1 credit Grade 11-12

Elective

* 289 Honors Journalism 3

Journalism 1-4 meet concurrently

This advanced course is for experienced students who wish to continue working on the newspaper while refining their journalistic skills and leading the newspaper staff A special focus will include in-depth reporting and multimedia storytelling.

❏ Hn Journalism 2

1 credit Grade 12

Elective

* 290 Honors Journalism 4

Journalism 1-4 meet concurrently

This advanced course is for experienced students who wish to continue working on the newspaper while refining their journalistic skills and leading the newspaper staff.

❏ Hn Journalism 3

1 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

* 288 Yearbook Journalism

Students in this course are responsible for producing the school yearbook. Students learn skills necessary to write stories, headlines, and captions, shoot and coordinate photographs, and use graphics to organize and design layouts.

0 25 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

Students will recognize the purpose of a yearbook and consider how school philosophy impacts editorial and design choices

* S280 SS Reading Lab

This summer-term course is designed to help students advance their reading comprehension and vocabulary through an instructional program that emphasizes independent reading of self-selected texts and direct-instruction on how to read a text closely. The course offers students time to read, access to books and texts that represent a wide range of characters and experiences, and ongoing conversation and support within a “reading community” of teachers and peers.

Fine Arts

● For band, orchestra, choir, dance, tap, and traditional African music and dance classes, when you request your course for next year, list the class in which you are currently enrolled. After placement exams are completed, the directors finalize placement. The director’s approval is required for changing to a different ensemble or level.

● All performance-based courses require some rehearsals, performances, and events that meet outside of normal class time. These additional times will be communicated to the students and families at the start of the school year or the beginning of the second semester In addition, some programs may have the need for additional expenses for personal attire, supplies unique to the art form, and potential field trips. There will be fundraising opportunities for possible travel and to show support of the Fine Arts Department.

● The Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement (FADE Program) is unique to Bishop McNamara High School Students may apply only at the beginning of Grade 10 For the application form and requirements, see your Fine Arts teacher or visit BMHS FADE on the school website.

Dance

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

*

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

9851 Dance 1

Students will receive Dance instruction at the Introductory level Training will include fundamental techniques and concepts associated with Dance. Students will learn dance choreography in multiple genres and experience the joy in participating in a performance. In addition, students will receive dance history, vocabulary and theory.

* 9852

Dance 2

Students will receive training in classical ballet, jazz, contemporary (incorporates jazz, lyrical and modern dance) and tap techniques at the beginner/intermediate level.

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9853

Dance

3

Students will receive training and dance composition in classical ballet, jazz, contemporary (incorporates the jazz, lyrical and modern techniques) and tap techniques at the intermediate level. Improvisation will be introduced at this level.

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Perform in school production

❏ Purchase of dance attire and shoes

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Perform in school production

❏ Purchase of dance attire and shoes

1 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9854 Dance 4

Students will receive training and dance composition in classical ballet, jazz, contemporary (incorporates the jazz, lyrical and modern techniques), improvisation and tap techniques at the intermediate/advanced level.

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Perform in school production

❏ Purchase of dance attire and shoes

1 credit Grade 11-12

Elective

* 9855

Honors Dance 4

Students will focus on the development of their artistry and choreographic skills. Proper technique, body alignment, conditioning and strengthening will continue to be stressed while exploring artistry and learning the mechanics of choreography for every student. This course incorporates group and contact improvisations, creating and performing dance studies, discussion, critical analysis, resume building, e-portfolios, dance film, journal writing and group service projects

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Meet outside of class for additional technique classes and rehearsals

❏ Perform in school production

❏ Purchase of dance attire and shoes

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9825 Tap 1

This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of tap It is designed to develop rhythm, style and musicality. Students will learn a variety of tap styles from Broadway to Rhythm tap. Tap Dance history and terminology are also included in this course. Students will learn tap choreography to experience the joy in participating in a performance.

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9826 Tap 2

This course provides a review of basic tap fundamentals. History research projects and new terminology are introduced. Tap technique is taught on a Beginner/Intermediate skill level incorporating the introduction of Improvisation

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Purchase tap shoes

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9827 Tap 3

Students will increase their tap vocabulary and technical skill level to Intermediate Improvisation and composition will be included in this course. Increased performance opportunities will be offered at this level.

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Purchase tap shoes

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9828 Tap 4

Students will increase their tap vocabulary and technical skill level to Intermediate/Advanced Improvisation and choreography are explored deeper at this level. Increased performance opportunities will be offered at this level.

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Purchase tap shoes

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9829 Honors Tap 4

Students will focus on the development of their artistry and choreographic skills. Proper advanced tap technique will continue to be stressed while exploring artistry and learning the mechanics of choreography for every student. This course incorporates group improvisations, discussion, critical analysis, resume building, e-portfolios, dance film, journal writing and group service projects

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Purchase tap shoes

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9879 Traditional African Music & Dance 1

This course is designed to introduce the student to the exciting traditions and cultures of Africa through its African music and dance Beginners are introduced to the basic level technique and style in traditional music and dance in Africa. It continues with the tradition of merging the two art forms for various cultural and traditional presentations. Dances, music, drumming and singing are derived from across the continent The essential component of communication between the drummer/dancer and performer/audience is emphasized, as the beginner gets more comfortable in this performance-oriented class

❏ Audition

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9880 Traditional African Music & Dance 2

This course will build on the lessons learned in the level one course It will further develop practical training in the various traditional dances of the African continent with increased emphasis on drumming. It will continue exercises required for traditional movement of the body language of the dancer The dances and the music will include a wide range of traditional dances from across the continent with an emphasis on the dances and music traditions of West Africa.

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9881 Traditional African Music & Dance 3

This course is for those students interested in perfecting their African Dance and Drumming skills. It will offer intensive training in the African dance traditions and focus on increasingly difficult choreography with drumming. Emphasis is placed on: origin, roles and meaning, stylistic differences, the language of drums, song text, dirges and praise poetry, paraphernalia of the dance (mask, costume, props, makeup), symbolism and ritual significance

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Perform in school production

1 credit Grade 11-12

Elective

* 9882 Traditional African Music & Dance 4

This unique course is a natural progression for the advanced African Music and Dance student. It will build on the movements and explore the evolution of dance from the slavery times to the present It also incorporates dance composition and an introduction to other dance forms, especially modern and Caribbean dance styles.

❏ Audition or teacher recommendation

❏ Purchase dance uniform

❏ Perform in school production

0.5 credit Grade 9-12

* 9874 Sankofa Company

* 9884 Honors Sankofa Company

This class is designed to hone the music and theatrical dance talents in preparation towards the annual Sankofa Night Dance Production. Students work intensely on African, modern and interpretive dance techniques, focusing on the characters in the production story. Students research topics related to the production theme. Students are also exposed to external artists and choreographers who share their different styles and perspectives in music and dance The relationship between songs, dance and theatre are emphasized, as well as the various elements and demands of theatrical dance productions. Above all, students are given the freedom to use their creative talents. This course is open to all levels.

❏ Audition in September

❏ Meet weekly as an Omega class

❏ Perform in school production

❏ Honors credit available based on role and prior training

0.25 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective (1 semester)

* 9875 Sankofa Vocalist

Students work intensely on characterization and vocal performance, in preparation for the annual Sankofa Company production The vocalist role is critical for connecting musical, dance, and theatrical elements of the narrative, which is developed in collaboration with students in Sankofa Company.

Music

1 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9725 Concert Choir

* 9726 Honors Concert Choir

The Concert Choir is designed to teach the rudiments of choral singing and to present a variety of musical styles as part of the song repertoire. Principles of music theory as well as sight singing will be included in the general curriculum.

❏ Audition

❏ Meet weekly as an Omega class

1 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9747 Chorale

* 9748 Honors Chorale

The Chorale course is an intermediate choir, designed to build on the fundamentals of music theory and vocal technique. One focus of the course is to strengthen sight singing through exercises and various repertoire A close examination of vocal and choral works will underscore necessary tone, color, and diction for various musical genres. Students will be expected to participate in masses and other performances for grade throughout the year Students will also listen to various composers and examine compositions from different musical time periods.

❏ Perform in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

❏ Recommendation

❏ Perform in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

1 credit

Grade 10-12

Elective

*

9746 Chamber Choir

*

0.5 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

9745 Honors Chamber Choir

Chamber Choir is offered to those students exhibiting a high level of vocal expertise and precision. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of historical and 20th century musical styles. Students will have an opportunity to study music theory and harmony.

* 9760 Show Choir

The Show Choir course is designed to offer choir students an opportunity to perform varied song repertoire with choreography. The focus of this course will be on lyrical analysis, expressive singing, stage presence and choreography Students will have the opportunity to choreograph and teach dances chosen. The class will work towards presenting a choreographed show that contains a number of choral selections

❏ Concert Choir

❏ Recommendation

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

❏ Concert Choir or Chamber Choir

❏ Meets after school (Omega period)

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Recommendation

0 5 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9755 Vocal Jazz Ensemble

Students will have the opportunity to work on jazz repertoire from past to present An emphasis will be placed on jazz lyrics and phrasing. This course is open to any student who wishes to sing and

❏ Audition

❏ Meets after school (Omega period)

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective has some choir experience. The Ensemble will perform on occasion with the school’s jazz band ensemble

* 9610 Concert Band

* 9612 Honors Concert

Band

The Concert Band is a full instrumental concert ensemble intended for students of all musical backgrounds. The course also caters to students interested in starting music for the first time, or switching instruments. The class focuses on teaching, reviewing and elaborating upon basic musical concepts.

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Attend scheduled after-school events

❏ Private instrument instruction encouraged

❏ Travel for annual trip in the Spring

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9615 Symphonic Band

* 9617 Honors Symphonic Band

This is a full instrumental concert ensemble focusing on intermediate music levels. The group focuses on refining musical techniques and knowledge

❏ Audition

❏ Recommendation

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Attend scheduled after-school events

❏ Private instrument instruction encouraged

❏ Travel for annual trip in the Spring

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9620 Wind Ensemble

* 9625 Honors Wind Ensemble

This is the highest level instrumental concert ensemble at Bishop McNamara. Students concentrate on various levels and genres of music.

❏ Audition

❏ Recommendation

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Attend scheduled after-school events

❏ Private instrument instruction encouraged

❏ Travel for annual trip in the Spring

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9655 Concert Strings

* 9656 Honors Concert Strings

Beginning students on violin, viola, cello and bass (or students who have not played in several years) will learn the fundamentals and technique needed to play a stringed instrument.

❏ Purchase or rent instrument (except cello and bass)

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Attend scheduled after-school events

❏ Private lessons encouraged

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

1 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9660 String Orchestra

* 9665 Honors String Orchestra

This course is open to students with prior string experience on the following instruments: violin, viola, cello and bass Students will be exposed to many genres of orchestral music from classical through contemporary.

❏ Audition

❏ Purchase or rent an instrument (except cello and bass)

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Attend scheduled after-school events

❏ Private instrument instruction encouraged

❏ Honors credit available based on additional training and performances

0 5 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9630 Jazz Ensemble

In this big band style ensemble, students learn all genres of music including swing, Latin, funk, rock, and new age. The ensemble consists only of jazz instrumentation.

❏ Audition

❏ Current member of Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble or String Orchestra (with exception of guitar, bass, and piano players)

❏ Meets weekly after school as an omega period class

❏ Perform at in-school, local and out-of-state concerts

❏ Attend scheduled after-school events

0.5 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9640 Percussion Ensemble

This course focuses on a variety of genres and literature.

0.5 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9927 Honors Pit Orchestra

Each fall McNamara stages a musical theatre production that students may elect to take for credit and a grade. This course meets after school and all course work is hands-on preparation to produce the musical. Students in this course play in the pit orchestra as musicians.

❏ Recommendation

❏ Must currently play percussion in Concert Band, Symphonic Band, or Wind Ensemble

❏ Meets weekly after school as an omega period class

❏ Optional: Perform in county and state festivals, and annual music trip

❏ Recommendation

❏ Meets after school as an omega period class

❏ Attend some weekend performances, rehearsals, or set construction

1 credit

Grade 10-12

Elective

* 9933 Broadcast Journalism

This one-year course is designed for the study and practice of the basic elements of broadcast journalism and video production. This course will emphasize news-gathering, writing, video recording, editing, and the study of mass media. Students will learn the basic elements of news value and vocabulary specific to broadcast writing They will also identify various news sources and use interview skills to create stories using video and editing software. This course also

❏ Attend and report on school events

1 credit Grade 9-12

Elective explores the world of digital video and television production. Students learn on professional equipment in a modern digital TV studio Students work in collaborative teams to produce projects using cameras, while learning the basics of studio and field production, lighting and sound.

Theatre

* 9907 Introduction to Theatre

This course is designed to introduce the student to the many components of theatre: acting, directing, design, script analysis, and history. Students will focus on each topic through reading, lecture, in-class exercises, and assignments. In addition, there will be numerous practical assignments through which the student, individually or with others, will gain valuable experience in the ways these various elements work together in the creation of a fully realized dramatic experience.

1 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

Offered every other year

* 9903 Acting

This course introduces the student to the variety of techniques used to produce the art of acting. Assignments will be arranged sequentially to focus on each technique culminating in the use of the entire skill set for actual performance. Exercises will be based on the theatre techniques developed by, but not limited to, Konstantin Stanislavski, Viola Spolin, and Arthur Lessac Major areas of focus include observation, physical and vocal expressiveness, building a character, text analysis, monologues, scene work, and professional development. Students will be evaluated on performance, written assignments, tests, progress, and participation

❏ 9907 Introduction to Theatre ❏ Recommendation

1 credit Grade 11-12

Elective

Offered every other year

1 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

Offered every other year

* 9905 Honors Advanced Acting

This course further develops the techniques introduced in Acting. Students will conduct independent research, present acting techniques and exercises to the class, lead warm up exercises and select challenging performance material

Note: Runs concurrently with 9903 Acting

* 9917 Honors Great Stages of Drama

[Will be offered 2024-2025]

Throughout history social, political, cultural and philosophical forces have combined to create a fertile ground for great periods of theatrical activity. These “Golden Ages of Theatre” include: Classical Greece, Elizabethan England, Neoclassic/Restoration, Romanticism, Twentieth Century Realism and Expressionism, and American Musical Theatre This class will study the plays that emerged from these great periods, and examine the larger world view that shaped them. Student projects will include scene performance and presentations on period design and historical background.

❏ 9903 Acting ❏ Recommendation

0.5 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9912 Musical Production Cast

* 9925 Musical Production Crew

* 9913 Honors Musical Production

Each fall McNamara stages a musical theatre production that students may elect to take for credit and a grade This course meets after school and all course work is hands-on preparation to produce the musical. Students may participate on stage as actors, singers and dancers, backstage as technical support or in the pit orchestra as musicians. Students will learn all aspects of staging a musical including blocking, character analysis and development, plot analysis, choreography, vocal production, stage presence, theatrical vocabulary, set construction, lighting and sound design and production, costuming, makeup and properties

❏ Cast Only: Audition in the Fall

❏ Crew Only: Application in the Fall

❏ Meets after school as an omega period class

❏ Attend some weekend performances, rehearsals, or set construction

❏ Honors credit available based on role and prior training

0 5 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9920 Spring Production Cast

* 9921 Spring Production Crew

* 9931 Honors Spring Production

Each spring McNamara stages a non-musical theatre production which is a fine arts omega period class that students may elect to take for credit and a grade. This course meets after school and culminates in a fully staged play Students may participate as actors or technical support Concentration is on staging, plot, and character analysis.

❏ Audition in Spring

❏ Meets after school as an omega period class

❏ Attend some weekend performances, rehearsals, or set construction

❏ Honors credit available based on role and prior training

0.5 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

* 9928 Theatre Technology A: Set, Lights

This one-semester course introduces the student to both the artistic and technical aspects of theatrical productions through stage carpentry, set design, theatrical lighting, and stage properties. Throughout the course we will work hands-on in the theatre to put our knowledge into practice, using Bishop McNamara’s well-equipped stage and professional theatrical equipment.

0.5 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

*

0.5 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

9929 Theatre Technology B: Sound, Costume

This one-semester course introduces the student to both the artistic and technical design aspects of costume, sound and stage properties Throughout the course we will work hands-on in the theatre to put our knowledge to practice, using Bishop McNamara’s well equipped stage and professional theatrical equipment.

* 9908

Music Theatre Repertoire

This course introduces students to performing and studying the genre of musical theatre. Students will acquire and demonstrate knowledge in individual singing skills, how to build a repertoire, and the history of the genre musical theater. Assignments for this course include solo and duet performances in class, musical theatre history, character and show research, and vocal pedagogy

Visual Arts

❏ Spring course only

1 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9512 Color

This course introduces students to basic color theory, with a focus on mixing techniques and design principles Students will learn how to manipulate color to create realistic depth, three dimensional forms, to express different emotions, and to create effective compositions. This course provides foundational skills for students interested in design careers. Students will work with acrylic paint, watercolor paint, oil pastel, chalk pastel, colored pencils, and collage materials In addition, students will explore European and American art history movements from the 18th through the 20th centuries No drawing experience is necessary

1 credit

Grade 9-12

Elective

* 9507 Drawing

This course is designed to familiarize students with the fundamental vocabulary and drawing techniques utilized by artists. Concepts like line, shape, space, and shading are explored through work in pencil, pen, and charcoal.

1 credit

Grade 10-12

Elective

* 9521 Advanced Drawing

* 9522 Honors Advanced Drawing

This course explores more advanced drawing techniques and subject matter. There is a greater emphasis on drawing the human form than in the Drawing course. Work can be tailored to meet the needs of students assembling portfolios for college acceptance. Honors students are expected to work in a larger format and/or have additional objectives on assignments

❏ 9507 Drawing ❏ Recommendation

0 5 credit

Grade 10-12

Elective

* 9525 Photography

This semester course explores the basic fundamentals and techniques of photography Students are introduced to various skills to include digital capturing, image editing, and digital printing. The art of photography will be learned through hands-on experiences. Students will create a final portfolio.

0.5 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

* 9526 Film Production

This semester course explores the basic fundamentals and techniques of film production. Students are introduced to camera operation, audio control, basic directing, lighting, and editing. The art of film production will be learned through hands-on experiences, such as filming sports events, Fine Arts performances, and various other school activities. Students will create a final project, which will be a culmination of the semester’s assignments.

1 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

* 9527 Digital Art

This introductory course deals with controlling computer technology to produce an artistic image Students will learn computer illustration techniques, image manipulation, digital camera use, graphic design visual literacy, and the principles and elements of art in composition. Art historical movements will also be studied as they relate to student projects From painting to photography and now to computers, the ways in which art is made will always change.

1 credit

Grade 11-12

Elective

* 9556 Advanced Digital Art

Students build on the skills and concepts they learned in Digital Arts as they develop their vocabulary of digital design elements By the end of the course students will have created a collection of digital art projects for their digital design portfolio.

❏ Digital Art

1 credit

Grade 11-12

Elective

* 9559 AP Studio Art 2-D Design

This course is designed for experienced, highly motivated digital art students. Twenty-four quality photographic works will be required for submitting an AP Studio Art 2-D Design Portfolio. While building the portfolio, students will explore a variety of concepts, techniques and approaches designed to help demonstrate their abilities and versatility with problem solving and idea generation In the concentration section of the portfolio students will investigate an idea of personal interest.

HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

To graduate, students must earn 1.5 credits of Health & Physical Education, to include 939 Active for Life, 942 Health, and one physical education elective. Sports Medicine does not count toward this requirement.

0.5 credit Grade 9 939

Active for Life

This required course develops health-related fitness while teaching the skills and habits necessary for a lifetime of activity. It is designed to instruct the student in basic motor skills, development of coordination and perception, organized game playing, teamwork, endurance, and strength training. Research tells us that the physical development of the student affects the whole student's development and is specifically interrelated to cognitive development. Students will also demonstrate an understanding and respect for differences among people in physical activity.

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0.5 credit Grade 10

942 Health

This is a one semester required course. It provides a comprehensive look at current health topics today, including mental health, self esteem, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, health disparities, nutrition, family life and human sexuality, and disease prevention and control. Students will analyze influences and gain understanding of their impact on decision making Health education focuses on a student's development of protective life skills that promote health and well-being. By participating in a variety of learning experiences, students are able to develop adaptive and positive behaviors that will equip them to meet everyday life. Students are required to receive CPR certification.

0.5 credit Grade 10-12

Elective

* 935 Archery & Target Games

This course is designed for the beginning or novice archer, promoting instruction in international-style target archery. The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the basic techniques of target archery emphasizing the care and use of equipment, range safety, stance and shooting techniques, scoring and competition. Students spend one quarter in target games introducing the theory, strategies, history and teaching of different games Students will understand that a player either throws, slides, shoots or strikes an object with the goal of having the object land closest to or in a designated target.

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0.5 credit

Grade 10-12

Elective

* 931 Lifetime Sports

Lifetime Sports is designed to provide the basic skills, rules, and strategies needed to participate in individual and team sports Comprehensive activities may include Badminton, Pickleball, Volleyball, Flag Football, Soccer, Lacrosse, Softball, Kickball, Floor Hockey , Speed ball, Ultimate, Basketball, and Team Handball. Ongoing assessments include both written and performance-based skill evaluations with a large emphasis on class participation

NOTE: This course may be taken more than once for credit. The comprehensive activities will remain the same but students will apply their knowledge and skills through refereeing or coaching, and also practice sportsmanship, citizenship and cooperation in all activities.

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0.5 credit

Grade 10-12

Elective

* 940 Personal Fitness

This course is designed for those students interested in beginning or continuing a training program to improve their overall health and fitness It will provide the fundamentals necessary to build a comprehensive weightlifting and fitness program. Each student will have a portfolio which will include their weight training and cardio goals. There will be lectures on various training programs, nutritional needs, proper sleep and the effects of fatigue Students will be expected to set and meet individual workout goals for their desired outcome by the end of the semester.

NOTE: This course may be taken more than once for credit These students will build on their prior knowledge, and spend more time on nutrition, types of weight training, and individual goals. College-bound athletes will also have an opportunity to do assigned workouts.

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0.5 credit

Grade 10-12

Elective

* 933 Walking for Wellness

This course is designed for students interested in walking as a lifetime exercise The focus will be on teaching proper walking techniques, which will enhance the student’s overall cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, posture, and flexibility. A walking journal, a fitness walking test, and nutritional education will be included. We will also practice entering various Yoga movements These exercises will be done slowly, with relaxed rhythmic breathing. Yoga helps avoid strains and injuries. The course will introduce meditative breathing throughout the semester.

Not currently offered:

*992 Sports Medicine

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