Visual Arts
Mountain Ridge offers two different art classes to sixth graders. Sixth Art 2D involves drawing, painting, and studio projects. Sixth Art 3D involves clay work and sculpture.
The emphasis in both classes is on the basics, so students can build a foundation of knowledge and terminology they can then apply in future courses. Students receive the opportunity to work in a “hands-on” art studio and will leave the classes with artwork they have produced themselves.
Students are responsible for maintaining a developmental workbook as a tool that allows them to manage the processes of their own arts experience and artistic development. Students will also leave the class with the knowledge and ability to use the elements and principles of design.
Performing Arts
Beginning Band
Sixth Grade Beginning Band is open to all incoming 6th grade students, regardless of experience. Emphasis is on traditional band instruments. This class teaches the basics of musical notation and instrumental performance, as well as instrument and sheet music maintenance.
All parents of incoming sixth graders can expect more detailed information in a handout from the band directors. Band directors will distribute these at parent night and to children at their elementary schools. To ensure the selection of an appropriate instrument, all sixth graders interested in band must attend an instrument selection session at Mountain Ridge Middle School to be scheduled in the spring. This greatly increases the students’ chances for success in band.
Sixth-grade band covers all aspects of music, including musical notation, fundamentals of tone production, and care and maintenance of instruments. Students with previous band experience are welcome to select this course, understanding that there will be considerable review for them. This group has several required evening performances as part of the grade. It is a requirement of instrumental music in District Twenty that families will provide an instrument for their child. Larger, more expensive, instruments are available for those students that choose to play them.
There is a semester-usage fee for use of school-owned instruments. The required band uniform is dress-clothes-quality, black from the waist down, white from the waist up, with black dress shoes. There may be financial assistance available for families who qualify. More detailed information about instruments and uniform can be found in the band handout, or you may contact the band department if you would like more information.
Choir
The class is for students who have a strong desire to sing and perform. Students in this ensemble will experience a rich choral environment that will develop their abilities to sing in harmony, to express musicality, and to work as a member of a team. This course places emphasis on proper vocal technique, choral interpretation, and sight reading. Students will participate in evening performances at MRMS and may also have the opportunity to sing at exciting venues outside of school.
Drama
Students will learn the basic skills necessary for exploring the art of acting through eight-minute skits. Units covered will include art (performance) appreciation, character, voice, movement, pacing, and group improvisation. This course will emphasize performance literacy. These fundamental skills will build a knowledge base for other performing arts classes offered in subsequent years. Students will prepare and perform a skit in a group or as an individual in front of an audience during school hours.