Academics

         
 
Fine Arts & Music    
     
Fine Arts
3D Modeling I   3D Modeling II
Art History   Photo Digital Imaging
Graphic Design    
   
     
Music
Band I   Band II
Guitar   Music Appreciation
 
   
     
Fine Arts      

3D Modeling I
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: Computer I

Visualizing spaces and objects in three dimensions is critical to the success of the design of architectural spaces, models, technical drawings, and visual communications in media. The interplay of light, color, space, and form make exciting spaces and shapes function successfully. Traditional methods of exploring these issues with pencil and paper are very labor intensive. Use of computer software now enables quicker (and sometimes more accurate) study models to be generated, explored, and utilized in real world applications so that students can see not only what they are learning, but why and how what they are learning can be utilized in their future careers.

3D Modeling I enables students to draw using a familiar pencil and paper paradigm in a software context and is intended for students with little or no 3 dimensional drawing experience, but who will learn to create 3 dimensional models using Sketch Up Pro.

     
   

3D Modeling II
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: 3D Modeling I

Visualizing spaces and objects in three dimensions is critical to the success of the design of architectural spaces, models, technical drawings, and visual communications in media. The interplay of light, color, space, and form make exciting spaces and shapes function successfully. Traditional methods of exploring these issues with pencil and paper are very labor intensive. Use of computer software now enables quicker (and sometimes more accurate) study models to be generated, explored, and utilized in real world applications so that students can see not only what they are learning, but why and how what they are learning can be utilized in their future careers

3D Modeling II enables students to further expand their skill in 3 dimensional drawing through projects such as: advanced groups & components and Outliner; advanced painting, materials, and textures; Sectioning; layout; and topics relevant to creating professional presentations; as well as tools for creating & modifying surfaces used in terrain modeling.  

     
     

Art History
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: None

This course is designed to give upper level students a comprehensive survey of Western Art through a discipline based approach. Students will also look at non-Western Art and its relationship to cultures; receive a detailed introduction to art appreciation; and become exposed to artist profiles and primary source information on why art is created and how it affects our daily lives. They will study art through links to historical events and its connection to other arts & disciplines. Exposure to the material covered in this course will help students understand Introduction to art courses they will be required to take at the college level at most universities nation wide.

     
     

Photo Digital Imaging
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: Computer I

This course is designed to help students use photography & digital imaging as a medium for creative expression. The technical aspects are of course covered in considerable detail, but they complement the primary function of seeing—specifically “learning to see through the lens of a camera”. Students who have learned to look and see and express what they have seen will be enriched throughout life, trained to experience the world as a constant source of stimulating and instructive images and insights.

In addition, many of the skills and experiences gained through a course of this kind are of direct practical benefit in virtually any pursuit. Specific examples include the ability to notice and utilize detail, pattern and relationships; the conceptual skills required to compose a photograph; experience in problem solving; and exposure to the creative application of complex technology.

     
     

Graphic Design
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: Computer I

Computer graphic design is the application of art, technology, and communication skills to the needs of business, industry, and education. This course is based on the premise that when students learn why the elements and principles of design are used, as well as how they are used effectively, they tend to retain knowledge. If they are encouraged to access and question what they have learned, not just accept it, then they will learn even more—the process of teaching themselves through critical analysis, implementation and communication of ideas. Recognizing that design is an active process, this course offers design problems for the student to solve. Executing the projects yields higher level thinking skills that will be used to compile a portfolio that integrates design, critical thinking, and communication skills which explore the visual/verbal relationship in graphic design.

     
     
Music    

Music: Band I
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: None

Band I NPS is designed as a form of music exploratory, in which the students are able to explore and learn about different aspects of music.  By learning to play a band instrument, students will get a better grasp on how music theory, history, instrumentation, and instrumental music are important to our culture and to our lives.  Students will be responsible for learning marching and concert band performance etiquette for display in a public performance.

     
     

Music: Band II
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: Band I

Band II at NPS is designed as a continuation of band I offered in the Spring. Students will continue to build proficiency and skill levels on their band instrument as introduced in band I.  Students will explore medium to advanced musical literature which will be utilized in a public performance either on campus, local community or as representatives out of state.  Activities will also include fund raising, solo and ensemble contest, performing at spring district contest, and a planned spring trip to a music festival.  Prerequisite:  Band I at NPS or middle school band.

     
     

Guitar
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: None

The guitar class at NPS is designed as a form of music exploratory, in which the students are able to explore and learn about different aspects of music.  By learning to play the guitar, students will learn to grasp how music theory, history, instrumentation, and instrumental music are important to our culture and to our lives.  Students will learn strumming techniques, basic chords, and performance etiquette.

     
   

Music Appreciation
1 credit, 1 semester
Prerequisite: None

This one-semester course introduces students to the elements, instrumentation, and historical periods of music. Students will learn the significance of surroundings and time periods and how they both influenced the music of the day. Students will listen and evaluate several types of music, and will be assessed through projects, presentations, and exams on the knowledge and understanding of music.