"[T]he arts are inseparable from the very meaning of the term 'education.' We know from long experience that no one can claim to be truly educated who lacks basic knowledge and skills in the arts."
National Standards for Arts Education
The Arts provide the tools which fuse the connection between intellect and emotion. Having a sense of self or an awareness of self is vital to a complete and successful education. The Arts at The Williams School seek to engage students in an individualized creative process. Within the academic curriculum of the Arts, students are assisted in developing the self-esteem, self-discipline, cooperative collaboration, and self-motivation necessary in everyday life. Students of various abilities and levels are given opportunities to translate ideas into action, to listen and to observe, to develop critical thinking and innovative problem solving skills, to learn to access information that will enrich their lives. This repertory of skills and experiences will enable students to identify life challenges and to achieve personal goals. Unless otherwise specified in the course description, all arts courses are full year, one credit.
Upper School theatre classes are open to students in Grades 9-12. Acting courses are offered at the Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels. Upper level courses may be repeated with permission of the department.
Beginning Acting
The first course in the four course sequence uses the basic techniques of Michael Chekhov, Arthur Lessac, and mask work, to develop kinesthetics, process, concentraton, discipline, and imagination. Students will learn the stock movement and gesture of the Zanni character of the commedia dell'arte. Students will also develop practical application of stage makeup. Explorations continue in short scene work and improvisation. The acquired techniques are applied to a student generated theatre piece or a published one act play for a public performance held at the end of the year.
Technique
The second course in the four-year sequence concentrates on vocal and directing technique. The vocal work is a continuation of the Arthur Lessac method. Students will learn vocal technique for the stage, directing technique, character development, and improvisation technique. Students experience a Repertory Theatre approach during the second semester, working as director for a ten minute play and as cast members in three to four ten minute plays.
Intermediate Acting
In the first semester, the third course in the four-year sequence continues to use the Lessac vocal method to strengthen the voice. The Sanford Meisner Technique—learning to “live truthfully in imaginary circumstances”—is discussed and practiced. Students will learn the stock movement and gesture of the Zanni and Pantalone characters of the commedia dell'arte. Students apply acquired skills and techniques to contemporary scene work. In the second semester, students create a theatre piece based on the research of an historical or social issue or develop two original characters through improvisation. A third option for the fourth quarter is Enviro—a site-specific/inspired theatre performance. The class chooses a site on the campus and develops a theatre piece inspired by the architecture and function of the site.
Advanced Acting
The last course in the sequence concentrates on the periods and styles of the theatre. Specific assignments include: chorus work from Greek tragedies and comedies; movement and character study of the Commedia Dell'Arte; monologue and scene work from Elizabethan, Neoclassic, and Restoration periods, Existential and Absurdist plays, and contemporary theatre. The class also studies and practices Rapier and Dagger technique. This course is open to seniors and requires an audition.
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre is a performance oriented class. It combines work in music, dance, and drama. This course is team-taught and provides the opportunity for students to experience the integration and relationship of these three disciplines. Through historical reference, research, and viewing performance videos, students discover the social and historical relevance of Musical Theatre. The course is open to students in grades 9-12. (1/2 credit)
Production
This course includes basic instruction in stage lighting, stage construction and painting, the design and creation of props, and sound production. Members of the class have the opportunity to be the technical/running crew for all main stage productions. The Production class is a one-credit course meeting six days out of the seven-day rotation schedule. It is open to all upper school students. The production class will occasionally have to meet for weekend work calls in order to complete production assignments.
Upper School dance classes are open to students in Grades 9-12. Dance courses are offered at the Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced and Advanced II levels. Students take the class that is appropriate for their ability, regardless of their grade level. Dance classes meet three times a rotation, for the entire year. Dance courses fulfill both Art and Physical Education requirements.
Beginning Dance Technique
Beginning Dance is for the student with little or no dance experience. This course focuses on the development of contemporary Dance technique, incorporating elements of Modern Dance, Jazz, and Ballet. Areas of concentration include: understanding correct stance, learning basic dance movements, improving strength, flexibility, coordination and balance, developing concentration, confidence, and spatial awareness, comprehending the correlation between music and movement, and experiencing the fun of dancing! The study of related areas such as Composition, Improvisation, and Repertory is also included. Video viewing, guest teachers, relaxation days, assembly performances, and opportunities to perform in dance productions supplement classroom work. Full-year Course, 1/2 credit.
Intermediate Dance Technique
Intermediate Dance is for students with previous dance experience. This course focuses on the study of Contemporary Dance Technique, incorporating elements of Modern Dance, Jazz, and Ballet. Work in the Intermediate class concentrates on the development of strong physical skills and technical proficiency. Turns, jumps, fall and recovery, dynamics, and timing are included. Emphasis is also placed on expanding aesthetic sensitivity, developing confidence, working with more complex music and various types of accompaniment, becoming adept at dancing in large or small groups, and on having fun dancing! Study in related areas such as Composition, Improvisation, and Repertory is also included. Video viewing, guest teachers, relaxation days, somatic lessons and assembly performances supplement classroom work. Students at the Intermediate level are encouraged to choreograph and perform in dance productions.Full-year Course, 1/2 credit.
Advanced Dance Technique
Advanced Dance is open to students who have either completed Intermediate Dance or who have a strong background in dance. Advanced level students are expected to be highly motivated and skilled. The course is a study of Contemporary Dance technique, incorporating elements of Modern Dance, Jazz, and Ballet. Emphasis is placed on the expansion of technical abilities and broadening movement capacity by learning material that is not only physically complex but also mentally demanding. Advanced dancers are challenged to seek the meaning behind the movement, to develop artistic insight, to sweep, drop, tip, roll and have fun! A wide range of accompaniment and musical styles is introduced, as is small group and solo work. Study in areas such as Composition, Improvisation, and Repertory is incorporated. Video viewing, guest teachers, relaxation days, somatic lessons and assembly performances supplement classroom work. Advanced level students are strongly encouraged to choreograph and to perform in dance productions. Full-year Course, 1/2 credit.
Advanced Dance Technique II
Advanced Dance II is a course designed for experienced and technically skilled dancers. Students audition for admission to the class and are expected to adhere to high standards of self-discipline, concentration, appropriate dress, and proper dance class conduct. The course incorporates and adds to the syllabus of advanced dance. Class work not only emphasizes technique but also the development of aesthetic sensitivity. Students are expected to learn quickly, go beyond where they are comfortable, think outside of the box, apply corrections, and adapt to a variety of styles. Advanced II dancers experience what its like to sometimes turn traditional technique on its head, without sacrificing its integrity, and to have fun doing it! Video viewing, guest teachers, relaxation days, somatic lessons and assembly performances supplement classroom work. The class also creates and performs a dance for Compchorea, our annual dance and music concert. Students in Advanced II are strongly advised to audition and/or choreograph for dance productions. Full-year Course, 1/2 credit.
Music Theory (Grade 9, 10, 11, 12)
This course covers the basics of music for the beginner: standard notation, intervals, chords (triads & sevenths), chord progressions, and song form. As their knowledge accumulates, students analyze various pieces of music (through sight and sound) for their harmonic and functional content. Ear training (the identification of rhythms and pitches) also occurs.
AP Music Theory (Grade 10, 11, 12)
The syllabus of this course is structured with the Advanced Placement exam in mind. Complex chords, ear training, and analysis are covered in greater depth than possible in the introductory Music Theory course. Compositional techniques are a significant portion of the work. Students are introduced to those techniques, analyze them, and write their own compositions based upon their learning. Music Theory is a prerequisite, unless a student is able to test out of that course.
Music Composition (Grade 10, 11, 12)
Students utilize the knowledge they have gained through the two previous courses in order to focus on composing their own music. Assignments are designed to develop fluency in a variety of techniques, as well as to assist the students in developing their own style. Students in this course are expected to be proficient in musical ability, whether vocal or instrumental. A previous music theory course or special permission from the department head is required.
Select Chorus (Grades 7-12)
Membership in this vocal group is by audition only. Auditions are held in September and January. The repertoire is varied. Performances occur at Winterfest, Spring Concert, and Commencement. (Meets two times 9th period; year course, 1/4 credit)
Band (Grades 7-12)
Band is open to all students who own and play a band instrument and who also read music. The repertoire ranges from traditional to contemporary. Performances occur at Winterfest and Spring Concert (1/2 credit).
Jazz Band (Grades 7-12)
Membership in this instrumental group is by audition only. Auditions are held in September and January. The repertoire ranges from standard to contemporary. Performances occur at Winterfest and Spring Concert
(1/2 credit).
In all the Art courses, individual studio work is supplemented by art history lectures, demonstrations, and museum and gallery trips. The focus of the Art courses is on skill-building and personal expression. The Art program also emphasizes art within the community. Students have the opportunity to work with local artists on a variety of projects throughout the year. Students exhibit their artwork at Williams and at local art galleries such as the Mystic Art Association. Students are also encouraged to use their artistic talents in programs and events for Williams and the broader community.
Art I (Grade 9, 10, 11, 12)
This course is an exploration of the technical and intuitive side of art. Emphasis is placed on building basic skills in drawing, composition and design, printmaking, sculpture and painting. A variety of media are introduced, including charcoal, pastel, ink, acrylic paint, soapstone and clay. Individual studio work is reinforced by weekly homework assignments. Art I is a prerequisite for all other upper school art courses.
Art II (Grade 10, 11, 12)
Students in this course will develop more complex skills in drawing, two-dimensional design and three-dimensional design. New painting media, such as watercolor are introduced in this course. Students will also learn to create a relief sculpture, including sculpting, mold making and casting. The more creative side of art is encouraged as students focus on conceptual work. Quarter projects serve as examinations for the end of term assessments. Art II is a prerequisite for the Advanced Art and the Portfolio Development courses.
Advanced Art (Grade 11, 12)
This course allows students to cultivate creativity in art while continuing to build a strong foundation. Structured projects in drawing, color theory and painting are balanced with long-term independent projects. Through independent work, students explore the more conceptual aspects of art and may spend extended periods of time with one media. Art analysis and interpretation is utilized to discuss various art movements throughout history. Quarter projects serve as examinations for the end of term assessments. Students may take this course for two years, or may participate in the Portfolio Development Course, which includes the completion of an art portfolio for admission to college. Art I and Art II are prerequisites for this course.
Portfolio Development (Grade 12)
This is an intense advanced art course that will focuses on the creation of a comprehensive body of art works to present to colleges. Students will work on strengthening skills in drawing, painting and color theory. Students will also chose a concentration and complete a series of conceptual works in a particular media. Photographing artwork will be taught and students will learn how to take slides of art. Students will also learn how to create an artist's statement, an artist's resume and other written components of an art portfolio. As part of this course, students will visit area museums and galleries, such as the Lyman Allyn Museum and Cummings Art Center for inspiration and art discussion. Students will participate in art critiques and receive final reviews of their work. Art I, Art II and Advanced Art are prerequisites for this course.
Digital Imaging and Graphic Design (Grades 10-12)
Digital Imaging and Graphic Design is a two-dimensional design course with a prerequisite of Art I. Using analog, digital and film as the basic tools of expression, emphasis in this course is placed on the principles and elements of two-dimensional design, including composition, rhythm, movement, balance, contrast, repetition, unity and pattern. A firm foundation in photographic and film processes, as well as, photoshop application will be established. There will be photo-shoots, demonstrations, lectures, and hands-on lab work, through-out the year for the students to incorporate and develop traditional techniques, new technology and their personal voice in an atmosphere designed for continual mentorship and creative exploration.
Seventh Grade Art
The seventh grade Art class is an introduction to drawing, painting, and sculpture. Students work on the development of art skills that are both technical and intuitive. In the drawing and painting sections, students experiment with a variety of media, including pencil, charcoal, oil pastel, and watercolor. Through the study of everyday objects, students learn the difference between drawing from perception and drawing from observation. Proportion, values, and color relationships are key skills. For the sculpture section, students are inspired by Eastern Woodland Native American traditional pottery techniques. Hand-built coil and pinch pots are the focus. Students are assessed according to behavior in class, skill development, and project completion.
Seventh Grade Music
This course exposes students to some of the basic elements of music composition. Students clap rhythms using short and long durations, sing melodies using pitches of the pentatonic scale, and then sing melodies in rhythm. The students then write their own rhythms, melodies, and finally, melodies in rhythm, During each class, emphasis is placed on performing rhythms, melodies and the combination of these elements. The components of the grade are daily, homework, quizzes and a test.
Eighth Grade Dance
In eighth grade Dance, students work on the development of strength, flexibility, technique, and basic steps. Two assignments are given. The first is to research and present a brief biography of a well-known person in the field of dance. Students choose a name at random from a list provided by the teacher. The second is to choose accompaniment, create and perform a short dance piece. Dance grades are based on class work, preparation, progress, effort and the completion of the assignments.
Eighth Grade Drama
The class develops a practical knowledge of basic stage directions and body positions and applies them to the staging of an open-ended scene. The students also learn and apply basic vocal skills for oral interpretation. The grade is based on class participation, effort, behavior, and the completion of assignments.
Second Semester
Seventh Grade Self-Science
Students participate in a variety of discussions and interactive activities to foster emotional, cognitive, and behavior skill development. The goal is to improve self-awareness, understand the factors that contribute to decision making, develop personal responsibility and master conflict resolution strategies. Particular attention is given to topics which students deem as relevant to their lives. Evaluation is based on participation and the completion of assignments.
Seventh Grade Dance
Students learn basic technique exercises and steps. They work on developing body alignment, balance, flexibility, and strength. Two assignments are given; the first is to find, summarize and present a news article about Dance; the second is to create and perform a short dance piece, choosing the music and incorporating phrases taught in class. Dance grades are based on class work, preparation, progress, effort, and the completion of the assignments.
Seventh Grade Drama
The class plays charades and discovers pantomime. The students develop skills in observation, concentration, strengthening the imagination, and improvisation. The Drama grade is based on class participation, effort and the completion of all assignments.
Eighth Grade Art
The eighth grade Art class is an introductory course in two-dimensional design. The lessons focus on pattern, repetition, contrast, rhythm, movement and balance. Projects include observation drawing with texture, still life drawing with pattern and various exercises in composition and design. The course culminates with a unit of relief printmaking. Students are assessed according to behavior in class, skill development and project completion.
Eighth Grade Music
The focus of the eighth grade curriculum is American music. We cover the blues through a project in which pairs or trios of students learn to play, on the piano, a basic accompaniment pattern, create a riff (a repetitive melodic fragment), and write a set of lyrics, all based on the 12-bar blues. A second project involves researching the life of a famous American musician then making an oral presentation to the class, accompanied by an informational poster and a recorded excerpt of that musician's work.
Eighth Grade Self-Science
Students participate in a variety of discussions and interactive activities to foster emotional, cognitive, and behavior skill development. The goal is to improve self-awareness, understand the factors that contribute to decision making, develop personal responsibility and master conflict resolution strategies. Particular attention is given to topics which students deem as relevant to their lives. Evaluation is based on participation and the completion of assignments.
The Williams School • 182 Mohegan Avenue • New London, CT • 06320-4110
