Film Critique and Video Production is an art department course that introduces film history, video production, and advanced computer applications. We will focus on film and video as art forms and vehicles for self-expression. We will cover the elements of pre-production, production, and post-production in order to create many different types of videos, and to develop useful, marketable skills for the future. Students will use digital camcorders and learn non-linear editing, graphics, and special effects with Final Cut Pro, After Effects, and Flash. This course meets the UC/CSU art (F) requirement.
Advanced Filmmaking is the capstone course in the Filmmaking pathway following the Design, Visual and Media Arts Standards in the Arts, Media and Entertainment Sector of the California CTE standards. The course will cover advanced industry production, complex storytelling projects, advanced special effects, career processes for serving clients, and the study of film genres including experimental and non-fiction filmmaking. This class will build on industry competencies students have developed in Film Critique or Beginning Filmmaking and Digital Communications and Streaming. Students will further their understanding of state of the art video software, creating original art, understanding film genres, and using emerging technologies.
Journalism is a comprehensive approach to learning the fundamentals of news writing, ethics, law, and media studies. The course emphasizes writing, gathering of information, newspaper design, and interview techniques. Students will work in the areas of photography, video, graphic design, and editing as they publish articles. Students will take part in all aspects of production including fundraising, advertising sales, interviewing and reporting, reviewing editorials, layout/design, and distribution. This course will prepare students with the writing and editing skills to pursue journalism in college and as a career. Students will use oral, written, and multimedia communication to present ideas. Students will solve problems by thinking creatively, analytically, and logically. Furthermore, students will focus on the business side of the news business by raising money through advertising to fund the school news website and print newspaper.