The Visual Arts provides students with opportunities to explore and develop skills in a wide range of visual media to create images and objects that communicate their ideas. Students are encouraged to view, discuss and evaluate art works from different cultures and historical perspectives. They will also acquire skills in identifying and applying art concepts to their own work. This course promotes the development of self confidence through a variety of individual and co-operative activities, as well as self discipline and organisational skills.
Students will study an introductory course in year 7 and 8, in which students sample a few of the different areas of the Arts offered as electives in years 9 & 10.
The Visual Arts and Design course provides students with opportunities to explore and develop skills in a wide range of visual media to create images and objects that communicate their ideas. Students are encouraged to view, discuss and evaluate art works from different cultures and historical perspectives. They will also acquire skills in identifying and applying art concepts to their own work. This course promotes the development of self confidence through a variety of individual and co-operative activities, as well as self discipline and organisational skills.
Photography provides students with the opportunity to learn basic black and white photographic skills. It includes learning to use a SLR camera, the processing of film and printing of photographs. Students will focus on producing their own images and experimenting with them developing photographs for presentation and exhibition.
'Street Art' unit focuses on the development of ideas and techniques used in designing and painting Graffiti murals. Students have the opportunity to create, make and present murals to improve the school environment. Positive participation is an integral part of this unit with the focus on skill development and team building. Investigation and experimentation of a range of graffiti design, art materials, digital media and equipment are included.
Drama enables students to develop confidence and self-esteem as they creatively explore and express a range of ideas. In years 7 and 8, students experiment with a variety of skills, elements, conventions and styles associated with drama. They learn through experiences of creating, presenting and appreciating dramatic works. As students work individually and collaboratively to develop their performance skills, significant emphasis is placed on participation and cooperation.
Students who choose drama electives in years 9 and 10 have the opportunity to explore specific styles and techniques in greater depth as they continue to develop their performance skills.
Music is a language through which students explore self-expression and communication which contributes to the growth and development of the individual.
All music courses at Belconnen High School accommodate students with varying skills, including students who have had little or no music education.
In year 8, the course focuses on the elements of music, reading and writing music notation and performance skills on keyboard and guitar.
Moving into Years 9 and 10, the course focuses on the elements of music, reading and writing notation and basic composition and recording techniques. Students will develop performance skills and techniques on an instrument of their choice (guitar, keyboard, drums, vocals or their own instrument) and will work through various units of work under the title Music Workshop.
Also on offer as a Year 9 and 10 music elective is Rock Ensemble which differs from Music Workshop in terms of its focus. Rock Ensemble focuses on the study of the music industry and the development of the necessary skills to create and maintain a successful rock band. Students explore a range of related topics such as song writing, improvisation, effective rehearsal techniques and building a fan base. In Rock Ensemble students will choose an instrument and then be placed in a rock band to learn and perform a variety of repertoire.
Year 7 Concert Band
Additional to the music courses listed above, the Year 7 Band is also offered as a subject. This takes place during the elective rotation, with students participating for the full year. We welcome varying abilities from beginner to advanced musicians and offer a range of instruments from the brass, woodwind and percussion families. Students that complete the Year 7 Concert Band course will automatically join the Senior Concert Band if they so choose. Our more advanced players are usually offered a position in the Senior Concert Band by the end of Term 1. Students joining Belconnen High School in Years 8-10 are welcome to join the Senior Concert Band after an audition process. The Bands regularly perform at school assemblies, various ceremonies as well as community events such as Floriade.