Above and Beyond Arts 12
Above and Beyond Arts 12
Course Overview
This course is designed for students pursuing high-level artistic creation and performance. It emphasizes a holistic approach to training, combining active participation in an art form with reflective knowledge construction. Students will engage in skill development, mental and physical preparation, performance reflection, and explore the therapeutic and political dimensions of art.
Course Units & Evaluation Breakdown
Unit 1: Art-Specific Skill Development
Weight: 25%
Ongoing – Monthly Submissions Required
Students will actively train in their chosen art form (e.g., dance, theatre, visual arts, music) and track their progress.
Requirements:
- Monthly Training Log
- Date of each entry
- Minutes spent on training
- Specific activity completed
- Reflection on progress and connection to current goal
- SMART Goals
- Submit 3–4 goals throughout the course
- Each goal must include a clear plan for achievement
- Goal Reflections
- Reflect on the process and outcome of each goal
- Complete self-assessment after each goal attempt
Unit 2: Physical & Mental Preparation for Artistic Practice
Weight: 25%
Ongoing – Monthly Submissions Required
This unit focuses on the physical and mental well-being practices that support artistic growth.
Requirements:
- Monthly Logs
- Time spent on physical and mental preparation
- Activities may include:
- Meditation
- Self-reflection
- Handling rejection
- Self-care planning
- Mobility/stretching
- Strength training
- Visualization
- Vocal exercises
- Goal Setting & Reflection
- Set mental/emotional benchmarks
- Reflect on development and challenges
Unit 3: Performance/Demonstration Reflections
Weight: 20%
3–4 Submissions Required
Students will reflect on their experiences participating in artistic demonstrations.
Examples of Demonstrations:
- Performances
- Art shows
- Gallery viewings
- Dress rehearsals
- Competitions
- Festivals
Requirements:
- Submit a reflection quiz after each event
- Focus on personal growth, challenges, and outcomes
Unit 4: Art as Therapy – Exploring Healing Through the Arts
Weight: 15%
Students will explore how art can be used as a therapeutic tool across disciplines such as drama, music, and visual arts.
- Assignment 1: Art Therapy Reflection Assignment
- Assignment 2: Unit 4 Project – Art Therapy Inquiry Project
- Students will complete an inquiry-based research project into how a chosen art form can be used in therapy and mental wellness.
Unit 5: Artist Profile – Art as Political Catalyst
Weight: 15%
Students will research and reflect on how artists use their work to promote or inspire political change.
- Unit 5 Project – How Art can Promote or Spur Change
Final Notes
- Templates for logs and reflections will be provided in Excel and Word formats.
- Students are encouraged to personalize their submissions and explore their unique artistic voice.
- Consistent engagement and thoughtful reflection are key to success in this course.