Friday, January 16, 2015

Winter Semester 2015

9:00-10:30

To Give a Defense: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics
Fee:  $100
Minimum 8, maximum 16
Location:  Parlour

Have you ever been asked why you believe what you believe about Christianity? Perhaps you’ve had these questions yourself. This class will provide an introduction to Christian Apologetics, which is devoted to “giving a reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). We will look at why apologetics is important for all Christians, and we’ll look at some of the popular critical arguments against the Christian faith that many of us have heard at some point or another. We’ll delve into logic and critical thinking, and learn how to apply these tenets to apologetics. You’ll also have opportunities to apply your new-found knowledge in class; there will be plenty of opportunities for student participation so you can gain experience and confidence in navigating the issues and arguments that apologetics deals with.

Text: The Case for Christ—Lee Strobel
Assignments will include a paper or two and some sort of class participation (presentation, debate, etc.)

Advanced Media
Fee: $100
Minimum 5, maximum 12
Location: MD Room

Once you have the basics of creating digital media down it’s time to take a look at some advanced skills. This course will take an in-depth look at video editing, advanced key-framing for special effects and video compositing as well as audio production for video. This class is for students who want to learn more about powerful software tools like Premiere Pro, After Effects & Photoshop.

Requirements:  Please note that you must fulfill these requirements to register for this course.  Any student without the required materials after the first week will not be allowed to continue in the course.
1. A camera w/ manual control:  Whether it’s a video camera or a DSLR, a camera that allows manual control of shutter speed, ISO & Aperture will be required throughout the course.

2. Access to Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects & Adobe Photoshop are required for this course.  These pieces of software are available through a few pricing options and are subscription based with no contract, so a student could purchase a subscription just for the duration of the course if need be.
         Subscription pricing is available here: https://creative.adobe.com/plans

3. The course will be project-based so expect homework. This homework will have students in the previously mentioned software on a weekly basis.

4.  Students need not have taken Media int he Fall semester, but a knowledge of video filming & editing basics is required.

Shakespeare: The Merchant of Venice
Fee: $100
Minimum 6, maximum 12
Location: Camel Room

We will read The Merchant of Venice together for the whole term. My emphasis will be on learning the story and developing comfort with Shakespeare’s language. We will delve into themes and, most importantly, Shakespeare’s genius for understanding human nature. Most of our reading will be done together in class, but there will be a need for some reading at home as well. There will be a short written assignment each week and one short essay. I will respond to all of the students’ writing. Each student will memorize and recite at least one passage from the play, and if time allows, we will prepare a small dramatic presentation. I look forward to some great discussions and perhaps even a few respectful arguments.

Required text:  The Merchant of Venice, Folger Shakespeare Library edition
 ( http://www.amazon.ca/Merchant-Venice-William-Shakespeare/dp/1439191166/ref=sr_1_4_twi_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1416452446&sr=8-4&keywords=merchant+of+venice  )


Christian Yoga

Fee: $100
Minimum 4, Maximum 12

Location: gym


Have fun while challenging and growing your physical, mental and spiritual health. In our class we will be working on increasing our physical strength and flexibility, focusing and calming our minds and finding time to be still in the presence of God.
There is a balanced mixture of core work, strength conditioning postures and stretching. The class begins with a brief scripture verse to think of throughout the class and ends with a prayer. This class is suitable for all body types and fitness levels. Mats and props will be provided.

Requirements for class: * Dress in comfortable, flexible, and appropriate clothing. * Have a water bottle. * Please be sure to tell the instructor if there are any medical concerns or injuries.



10:40-12:10




Influential Artists: A Study in Art History and Studio Art
Fee:  $110  (materials included)
Minimum 6, maximum 16
Location: Camel Room

This course examines four artists of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries
who had a profound impact on their culture and who helped develop and define the stylistic period in which they worked.  Each class will begin with a study of the life and work of the artist, highlighting the culture in which that artist worked. The majority of class time will be spent creating original works inspired by that artist. Students will be exposed to a variety of materials and techniques.

Artists:

Grant Wood: study of art parody, remake of American Gothic
Picasso: the blue guitarist, oil pastel with glue resist on black
Pop Art: Andy Warhol candy project, ink and acrylic on canvas
Kandinsky: Abstract/non representational, close-cropped abstract painting


Creative Writing: The Art of the Short Story
Fee: $100
Minimum 4, maximum 10
Location: Parlour

Can writing be taught?  Or can it only be “caught”?  Yes to both!  Strong writers are also strong readers, so this course will lead students through varied (and fun) writing exercises and assignments as well as several works of short fiction as we focus on elements of fiction writing--point of view, characterization, description, dialogue, “showing” vs “telling,” etc.  In the process, students will work towards producing one well-polished short story of 1000+ words. The “workshop” format will encourage students to share their own written work and critique that of others in a safe, supportive environment. 

Prerequisite:  Students should have a solid grasp of basic grammar as this course will not review elements of grammar or sentence structure.  All students must submit by email a sample piece of fiction or non-fiction at the time of registration before being confirmed in the course. (Note: students who have already completed another course with Ms. L at DVHS do not need to submit a sample piece.)  Use this course as part of your high school English credit for the year.

No required text; all materials will be available via handouts or online sources.


Gym
Fee: $80
Minimum 10, maximum 16
Location: Gym

This semester Gym will focus on organizational/ lead-up games, rugby, and Australian rules football.  Most or all equipment will be provided.


1:00-3:00


Theatre Tech
Fee: $110
Maximum 16
Location: Camel Room

Students will learn the necessary skills and tools to succeed in a high
paced and competitive field.   They will be introduced to the many roles
involved on stage, off stage, and backstage. Technical Theatre topics
covered  include: Stage Management, Lighting/Sound design, Set creation,
Costuming, producing, marketing, and promotions, and more.


Drama
Fee: $110
Location: Parlour

NOTE: Students have already auditioned and been cast for all roles. This year’s play will be An Appointment with Death by Agatha Christie.