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    • How to sign up for your electives

      Directions: All Students: Use the Elective Course Descriptions to make your four choices for your electives. Be prepared to accept any two of the choices you submit. These electives will meet during your regular school day. 

      Elective choices are to be selected through the PowerSchool Parent/Student Portal on April 3 - 26.  **THEY ARE NOT FIRST COME FIRST SERVE!!**

      Log-in Directions:

            • Go to https://powerschool.vcs.net/public/home.html
            • Login using the student's Warriorlife username and password OR the parent's username and password.
            • Once in PowerSchool, click on the Class Registration Navigation button to access the Elective Course selection page.

      All students must select four different elective courses, two preferred and two alternative choices.

            • Courses requiring a prerequisite, audition, or application may be removed from a student's choices if the student's application was not accepted or if the student does not meet the course requirements. You will be notified of your acceptance for application-based electives by April 12 (so please wait to make your selection until AFTER you have heard back from the teacher).
            • If you have not been recommended for an audition-based course already, please schedule an appointment for an audition. Contact information needed to schedule an audition can be found within the individual Elective Course Descriptions.

    • Any student not choosing their electives online by April 26 will have electives automatically chosen for them by the computer.  If you have any questions about the elective classes, feel free to call our Academic Counselor at 408-513-2479.

      **Parents, please note that only students whose enrollment is complete for the 2019-20 school year will have their Elective Requests processed.**

      Please read the Elective Course Descriptions in their entirety BEFORE you make your choices. Make the selections carefully because the system will be closed and your child will be unable to change their electives after April 26.

  • NEW!!

    NEW!! Semester Course Pairings

    Students who choose one of our new Semester Course Pairings will have the opportunity to participate in both curricula described from two different instructors allowing the student to become familiar with a wider variety of elective content during their time at VCJH.  Please note that students may not transfer from one pairing to another in the middle of the year but must stay with their selected pairing sets.


  • Drama I

    This foundational course will expose students to the two Conservatory pathways of Theatrical Acting and Theatrical Design and Technology.  Every student who signs up for this course has an opportunity to experience both aspects of Theatre Arts with experts in their given fields.  All grade levels are welcome!

    Acting: Semester Course

    This semester focuses on a fun approach to the History, Directing, and Acting side of Theatre.

    Theatre Design and Technology: Semester Course

    This semester allows students to experience the hands-on construction of the different materials needed for a performance.  They will have a chance to work in the scene shop where set design is made and crafted. 

    Prerequisite: None

  • Drama II

    This second year in Theatre Arts follows the semester pairing model of Drama I while enhancing student's skills in the Theatre Arts.

    Acting: Semester Course

    In this semester, students will focus more intensely on their acting skills, honing different areas and working more closely with one another, as well as taking a deeper dive into the history of theatre.

    Theatre Design and Technology: Semester Course

    This semester continues technical theatre training, readying the students for the robust high school program.

    Prerequisites: Drama I. Students who complete both Drama I and Drama II at VCJH will be eligible to bypass Theatre I at VCHS (an equivalent high school course), and enter Theatre II.

  • Alpha Band & Music Creation on the iPad

    Alpha Band: Semester Course

    This class is for students who wish to learn how to play a new musical instrument.  Students are invited to enroll in this class to learn flute, clarinet, baritone horn, tuba, French horn, oboe, bassoon, trombone, trumpet, or saxophone. 

    Music Creation on the iPad: Semester Course

    Love music? Like to create? This class will introduce students to the incredible world of music composition and production using the our music Mac lab. Topics covered will include music theory, computer-based digital audio recording, editing, sequencing, and notation. Students will gain hands-on experience using industry-leading music production and theory apps including: Garage Band, Tenuto, Audiobus, Loopy HD, the DM1 drum sequencer, Sibelius, and the Animoog music synthesizer.

    Prerequisite: None

  • Art Foundations & Clay Projects

    Art Foundations: Semester Course

    Students will learn about the elements of art (line, shape, color, value, form, texture, and space) and how each element plays a part in the foundation of all artwork. We will explore various mediums including pencil, paper, canvas, acrylics, block prints, and more. We will also explore different time periods and the active artists of those eras, discussing and illustrating what we learn.



    Clay Projects: Semester Course

    This class is hands on! Students make functional pottery and build playful, three-dimensional projects. Pinch pots, coil pots, and slab pottery skills are developed as students work from one project to the next. Projects include vases, cakes, boxes, bowls, mugs, houses, and more. If you are creative and do not mind getting a little messy, this class is for you.

    Prerequisite: None





  • JH Photo & Clay Projects

    JH Photo: Semester Course

    This is an introduction-level course to photography. Students will explore the different buttons and settings of their cameras and photograph projects that will use these functions. Secondly, students will learn the composition of a photograph from the artistic aspect. We will explore Elements and Principles of art in relation to photography and will take pictures defining each one. Lastly, students will be introduced to basic functions of Photoshop CS5. With most projects, we will “enhance” the photographs with an application in Photoshop. 

    Students will provide their own Personal Digital Camera (7 megapixels or greater) with user manual.


    Clay Projects: Semester Course

    This class is hands on! Students make functional pottery and build playful, three-dimensional projects. Pinch pots, coil pots, and slab pottery skills are developed as students work from one project to the next. Projects include vases, cakes, boxes, bowls, mugs, houses, and more. If you are creative and do not mind getting a little messy, this class is for you.

    Prerequisite: None

  • Video Fun & Computer Savvy*

    Video Fun: Semester Course

    Do you enjoy making videos with friends? In this class you will learn skills to help you create better videos.  Students will learn how to write good film stories, create storyboards, film, and how to edit using Final Cut Pro.  Students will create various short video projects.  

    NOTE: Students will need to meet with their filming team a couple of days per quarter, outside of classroom hours.  There will be ample time to plan ahead, but if you are unavailable after school, this could be a problem for you.



    Computer Savvy: Semester Course

    This course is designed to equip students with the skills necessary for high school, college, and future careers in technology. Students will also learn how to touch type, create documents (formatted according to MLA academic standard, including citation), and master the art of slideshow presentations as they learn all they need to make all of their future technological endeavors seamless.

    Prerequisite: None

    *Qualifies as an AMSE elective

  • ISS & Robotics*

    Robotics: Semester Course

    This beginning course in STEM robotics will utilize both open-source based RoboQuest technology to allow students to design and build their very own creation, as well as LEGO®Mindstorms to learn how to design and program the  EV3 Robotics environment.  Using a hands-on approach, students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts behind robotics, engineering, programming, and operation.  Students will also learn and practice the iterative design process, involving prototyping, testing, and analysis.  The objectives of this course include introducing students to engineering and programming, with the focus of building problem-solving strategies.

    ISS Space Program: Semester Course

    This course is an advanced STEM elective for students interested in space science.  Using project-based learning strategies, students will explore engineering, programming, circuitry and data analysis to conduct experiments that will be uploaded to the International Space Station (ISS). There is a strong emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking. 


    Prerequisite: Students must have a B or higher in current math class. $75 class fee required.

    *Qualifies as an AMSE elective


  • Investigative Science & Ocean Discovery*

    Investigative Science: Semester Course

    Ever wonder why Mentos explode when combined with Coke? Or how you would design a trebuchet? Is the physics of flight a mystery to you? Or the forensic techniques used by crime investigators? If you’re curious how the world works, this class is for you. Whether you’re an aspiring scientist — or just like to get your hands dirty — this is a great chance to work in a laboratory setting and conduct real experiments to find the answers to some of nature’s strangest mysteries.



    		sci




    Ocean Discovery: Semester Course

    This course is a pathway to help students better understand the ocean as a living, ecological system.  Using a hands-on approach, students will develop an understanding of the ocean from various aspects including physical, chemical, biological, geological, and oceanography.  We will explore testing and sampling methods, organismal biology, conservation, and ocean chemistry.  Students will leave the program with a deeper understanding of lab procedures, ocean-related technology, and the ocean’s uniquely balanced ecosystem.



    Prerequisite: $75 class fee required.

    *Qualifies as an AMSE elective


  • The Sporting Life

    This course is designed to present a variety of sports-related topics relevant to middle school students. It provides a foundation for individuals interested in learning how sports psychology, weight training, and nutrition benefit athletes today.  One semester is psychological, the other semester is physical.

    Sports Psychology: Semester Course

    Students will receive an introduction to sports, explore the psychology of sport, and tackle ethical and managerial aspects of sport. The first quarter will be project-based, and students will learn about percentages of getting scholarships, the probability of going pro, and other careers in the sporting world. The second quarter will be lecture-based on mental skills based in Cognitive Behavioral Theory.

    Sports Training: Semester Course

    Students will practice correct weight training and learn the benefit of a nutritious diet.  Students will also have opportunities during this semester to develop practical leadership skills and learn how technology and sport interact.

    Prerequisite: None

  • Yearlong Electives

  • Technology

  • 3D Animation*

    Are you creative? Are you detail oriented? Do you like a challenge? If so, then this is the class for you. Students will learn how to use the professional software, Maya Unlimited, to create 3D objects, characters, and scenes. They will then learn how to animate them to create their own cartoons. This course is offered as a Self-Paced or Traditional course.  Each format teaches the same material.  If you are very comfortable with a computer (not just iPad) and you are self-motivated, you may choose to take the self-paced course.  In the self-paced course you will watch recorded lessons and complete the same assignments, but you will be able to move ahead at your own pace.  While the self-paced course is like an online class, you are in class and have 100% access to the teacher for assistance at all times.

    Due to the challenging nature of this course, it is recommended that students who wish to take this class be proficient in computers and maintain a 3.0 GPA.

    *Qualifies as an AMSE elective

    Sample Character Sample First Animation Sample Final Animation

  • 3D Animation Level II*

    Students will build on what they have learned in 3D Animation.  Students will focus on advanced modeling skills and special effects such as; dynamics, hair, fur, cloth, advanced surfacing, and particle systems to create animations and video special effects.

    Prerequisite:  Successful completion of the 3D Animation class.

    *Qualifies as an AMSE elective

    Sample Explosion Video Sample Snow Letters Effect Sample Final Animation

     

  • 3D Game Design*

    Students will learn to use their 3D Animation skills to create video games. In the first semester, students will learn coding using C# and the artistry of game design while creating simple 2D games.  During the second semester, students will apply their 3D modeling and animation skills to their game design skills to create a 3D game. 

    Prerequisite:  Successful completion of the 3D Animation class.

    *Qualifies as an AMSE elective

    Student Game Modeled Game Environment

    Work Space

  • Web Development I*

    Learn the fundamentals of web design. In this course students will learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. During the second semester students will use their knowledge to make a single-site web app of their own design! Prospective students do not need to be familiar with programming concepts.

    Prerequisite:  Open to seventh or eighth grade students.  It is highly recommended to be able to type 40 WPM or faster.

     *Qualifies as an AMSE elective

    Calculator App
    		 Coding GitHub.com

  • App Development I*

    Learn the basics of how to code apps for iOS. In this course students will learn Swift. Students will build apps using Apple’s Xcode software, and test them on their iPad in class. Prospective students do not need to be familiar with programming concepts. For the final project, students will make either a Meme Generator or Rock/Paper/Scissors.

    Prerequisite:  Open to seventh or eighth grade students.  It is highly recommended to be able to type 40 WPM or faster.

     *Qualifies as an AMSE elective

  • Communications

  • Online Journalism

    In this class, students will focus on journalism tools for the modern age. Students will publish written articles on current events and interviews on campus. They will explore the open-source WordPress platform, RSS feeds, podcasts, and more. Our work can be seen here: http://jh.warriornews.net/

    WordPress RSS Feed

  • Speech and Debate

    1 Peter 3:15, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect...".  Join Speech and Debate to enhance your presentations and speeches, strengthen your persuasive writing, and have fun in some great pro/con arguments on anything from food to pop culture to sports to history! This course will develop each student's ability to create arguments and counter-arguments and reason through proposed ideas and perspectives all while growing in their public speaking skills.  Students will strengthen their own opinions through research, argumentative writing, debating with other students, and participating in an end-of-the-year formal policy debate.  By taking this course, students will demonstrate that they know what they believe and why they believe it.

    Prerequisite: None

            

  • Yearbook

    Yearbook is a fun, fast-paced class where students will work together using technology such as digital cameras, iPads, and an online design software to record the memories of the school year. Students will learn and practice design skills, interviewing skills, and writing skills to tell the story of the year in an exciting way. Applicants need to be organized, creative, goal-oriented, and ready for both work and fun.  (We always make time to celebrate deadline completions!)

    Application required. Placement in this class is by teacher approval.

    Group Work Editors Staff

  • Visual Arts

  • Clay Projects II

    In this clay class, students will be more involved in the choosing of their projects and all projects will be advanced construction.  More time will be spent in the exploration of different media that can be incorporated with clay.  Through researching various resources, students will create individual as well as group projects.  

    Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Clay Projects class and teacher approval.

  • Music

  • Advanced Band

    Advanced Band is performance based and students will develop their technical and musical skills accordingly.  The instruments in this group are flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, baritone, trombone, and tuba.  Students perform at school functions, music festivals, and other outside events.

    Audition required. Final placement for this group will be by audition or placement by the directors. Contact Mr. Jeff Wilson for an audition at jwilson@vcs.net.  Families will be responsible for securing the appropriate performance attire for this ensemble.  Details will be provided in the syllabus at the beginning of the year.

    Student Performer Advanced Band Play the Trumpet

  • Quest-Studio Band

    The Quest-Studio Band is the elite performance ensemble for band instrumentalists. Students perform on traditional band instruments in a variety of musical styles from jazz to chamber and traditional concert band music. Students will perform at school and community events, music festivals, and may travel to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the Sacramento areas.

    Audition required. Final placement for this group will be by audition or placement by the directors.  Contact Mr. Jeff Wilson for an audition at jwilson@vcs.net.  Some fees may apply.

  • Cadet Strings

    This class is for developing musicians with a minimum of six months instruction on the violin, viola, cello, or string bass. Emphasis is given to body balance and posture, ease of playing, sight reading more advanced rhythms, playing in III (violin, viola) and IV (cello) positions, shifting, vibrato, and bow articulations. A student entering Cadet Strings should be able to sight read simple rhythms and notes. 

    Audition required. Final placement for this group will be by audition or placement by the director. Families will be responsible for securing the appropriate performance attire for this ensemble.  Details will be provided in the syllabus at the beginning of the year.  Contact Mrs. Lily Homer for an audition at lhomer@vcs.net.

  • Advanced Strings

    This class is designed for students who are able to shift easily into III and IV positions, who sight read in keys with one to three sharps and one to three flats, and who understand and can figure out how to count rhythms.  Students in this class will perform frequently and will learn many pieces.  They will be part of “Ensemble Valley Christian,” the school’s premier performing string group. 

    Audition required. Final placement for this group will be by audition or placement by the director. Families will be responsible for securing the appropriate performance attire for this ensemble.  Details will be provided in the syllabus at the beginning of the year.  Contact Dr. Scott Homer for an audition at shomer@vcs.net. 

    Advanced Strings Cellos First Violins

  • Chamber Strings Ensemble

    The Chamber Strings Ensemble is an advanced-level class introducing students to the wonderful world of chamber music through the study and performance of music from the baroque, classical, romantic, and contemporary music periods. Integrated into the course is a study of individual composers, their Christian faith and devotion, and the sacred music they wrote within the context of the leading role the church had in the arts. The Chamber Strings Ensemble will perform several times a year at major school events and community functions.

    Audition required. Final placement for this class is by audition and teacher recommendation only. Please contact Mrs. Lily Homer at lhomer@vcs.net if you have any questions or would like to audition.

  • Alpha Drums

    Learn to drum for the first time in Alpha Drums class. We will focus on the very beginning of drumming, as well as learn how to hold the sticks and begin to understand how to read and understand music as we drum on Drum Pads, snare drums, bass drums, toms, timpani, and much more. We will also explore the mallet percussion, which are the bells, marimba, vibes, and xylophone. These are instruments we use to play songs and melodies. There is so much more than just drumming in Alpha Drums class. Sometimes we also travel to perform in parades. Are you excited about learning how to drum? Alpha Drums is the class for you and your friends.

    Prerequisite: None. Families will be responsible for securing the appropriate performance attire for this ensemble.  Details will be provided in the syllabus at the beginning of the year.

  • Advanced Percussion Ensemble

    The Advanced Percussion Ensemble is an audition-only drum ensemble for intermediate-level percussionists wishing to further develop their musical and technical percussive skills. In addition to performing with the Advanced Band, this ensemble will also perform at festivals, parades, and competitions designed specifically for percussion ensembles.

    Audition required. Final placement for this group will be by audition or placement by the director. Contact Mr. David Sankus for an audition at dsankus@vcs.net. Families will be responsible for securing the appropriate performance attire for this ensemble.  Details will be provided in the syllabus at the beginning of the year.

  • Quest Percussion Ensemble

    The Quest Percussion Ensemble is an audition-only drum ensemble for intermediate-level percussionists wishing to further develop their musical and technical percussive skills. In addition to performing with the Quest Band, this premier ensemble will also perform at festivals, parades, and competitions designed specifically for percussion ensembles.

    Audition required. Final placement for this group will be by audition or placement by the director. Families will be responsible for securing the appropriate performance attire for this ensemble.  Details will be provided in the syllabus at the beginning of the year.  Contact Mr. David Sankus for an audition at dsankus@vcs.net.

  • Piano

    This course is for all levels of pianistic ability. With our state-of-the-art lab, students work to improve their technique, theory, ear training, sight-reading, and individual repertoire. For brand new beginners through more advanced, piano class is a fun, interactive class that you will enjoy.

    Prerequisite: None

  • Quest Choir

    This class is for students who desire to learn proper vocal technique, beginning music theory, harmonizing, and love to sing!  It is the place to improve your voice, learn to sight read, and sing in parts.  Some additional rehearsals are required throughout the year prior to the concerts.  This class will help prepare you for the High School music program upon graduation.  All choir students will perform in the Christmas Concert, Spring Concert, and additional performances as scheduled by the director.

    Prerequisite: None

  • Vocal Ensemble

    This advanced-level performance group will expose vocalists to the rich melodies, harmonies, and textures of classical, jazz, and pop music. Students must be able to read music, sing unaccompanied, and demonstrate the ability to sing in the stylistic idioms of classical, jazz, and pop.

    Audition Required. Placement for this class is by audition and teacher recommendation only. Please contact Mr. Mark Hulse at mhulse@vcs.net if you have any questions or would like to audition.

  • Dance

  • Color Guard

    Color Guard is known as the "Sport of the Arts" and is for students interested in live performance of dance and uses movement, choreography, flags, and costumes. The Color Guard will represent the school at outside performances, festivals, and competitions.   

    Most of these performances will be on Saturdays throughout the second semester. Please feel free to contact Mrs. Vickie George at vgeorge@vcs.net if you have any questions. A costume/uniform fee may apply.  

  • Dance Technique I

    This performing arts class is for students who want to learn beginning dance technique. Students will develop muscle tone, flexibility, proper dance alignment, technical strength, and performance ability. Students will be introduced to a variety of dance styles including ballet, jazz, world dance, and lyrical. Students enrolled in Dance Technique I will have the opportunity to perform in our Junior High Spring Dance Concert: DanceScapes. Please note this class will require afterschool rehearsals the week prior to the performance. Due to Junior Conservatory- Dance classes being performance-based, participation and attendance to daily classes, technical rehearsals, tech week, and performances dates for DanceScapes are mandatory.

    This course may be repeated. A class participation fee of $70.00 is required to participate in this course. Students participating in dance are required to wear dance clothes in class and nude split sole slip-on jazz shoes for performances. Students may also be required to purchase basic dance items for their costume (e.g. leotard, tights, etc.). Please feel free to contact Mrs. Vickie George vgeorge@vcs.net  if you have any questions.                                                  

  • Dance Technique II

    This performing arts class is for students who want to learn intermediate dance technique. Students will develop muscle tone, flexibility, proper dance alignment, technical strength, and performance ability. Students will be continuing to develop a variety of dance styles including ballet, jazz, world dance and lyrical, contemporary. Students enrolled in Dance Technique II will have the opportunity to perform in both our Conservatory Christmas Chapel and our Junior High Spring Dance Concert: DanceScapes. Please note this class will require afterschool rehearsals the week prior to the performance. Due to Junior Conservatory- Dance classes being performance-based, participation and attendance to daily classes, technical rehearsals, tech week, and performances dates for DanceScapes are mandatory.

    Prerequisite: Dance Technique II students require a prerequisite of intermediate  ballet and/or jazz technique. Additionally, dancers must audition into and receive approval from Mrs. McLaughlin before registering for this class. This course may be repeated multiple years. A class participation fee of $70.00 is required to participate in this course. Students participating in dance are required to wear all black dance clothes in class and have nude split sole slip-on jazz shoes as well as, contemporary 1/2 sole turners for performances. Students will also be required to purchase basic dance items for their costume (e.g. leotard, tights, undergarments, etc.). Please feel free to contact Ms. Vickie George at vgeorge@vcs.net if you have any questions.

    Dance

     

  • Dance Technique III

    This performing arts class is for students of advanced dance technique. Students will develop muscle tone, flexibility, proper dance alignment, technical strength, and performance ability. Students will be trained in a variety of dance styles including ballet, jazz, world dance and lyrical, contemporary. Students enrolled in Dance Technique III will have the opportunity to perform in both our Conservatory Christmas Chapel and our Junior High Spring Dance Concert: DanceScapes. Please note this class will require afterschool rehearsals the week prior to the performance. Due to Junior Conservatory- Dance classes being performance-based, participation and attendance to daily classes, technical rehearsals, tech week, and performances dates for DanceScapes are mandatory.

    Prerequisite: Dance Technique III students require a prerequisite of advanced ballet and/or jazz technique. Additionally, dancers must audition into and receive approval from Mrs. McLaughlin before registering for this class. This course may be repeated multiple years. A class participation fee of $70.00 is required to participate in this course. Students participating in dance are required to wear all black dance clothes in class and have nude split sole slip-on jazz shoes as well as, contemporary 1/2 sole turners for performances. Students will also be required to purchase basic dance items for their costume (e.g. leotard, tights, undergarments, etc.). Please feel free to contact Mrs. Michelle McLaughlin at mmclaughlin@vcs.net if you have any questions.

  • Hip-Hop I

    This performing arts class is for students who want to learn beginning Hip-Hop dance technique.  Students will develop muscle tone, flexibility, technical strength, performance ability, and audition technique. Students will be introduced to a variety of Hip-Hop dance styles including popping, locking, old school, breaking, and many more.  Students will also be introduced to Freestyle dancing and Choreography. Students enrolled in Hip Hop I will have the opportunity to perform in our Junior High Spring Dance Concert: DanceScapes.  Please note this class will require afterschool rehearsals the week prior to the performance. Due to Junior Conservatory- Dance classes being performance-based, participation and attendance to daily classes, technical rehearsals, tech week, and performances dates for DanceScapes are mandatory.

    A class participation fee of $70.00 is required to participate in this course.   If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mr. DJ Baluyot at dbaluyot@vcs.net.

  • Hip-Hop II

    This performing arts class is for students who want to learn intermediate level Hip-Hop dance technique, and are placed based on audition with Mr. Baluyot.  Students will develop muscle tone, flexibility, technical strength, performance ability, and audition technique. Students will continue to train in a variety of Hip-Hop dance styles including popping, locking, old school, breaking, and many more.  Students will develop their Freestyle dancing and Choreography skills. This course may be repeated. Students enrolled in Hip Hop II will have the opportunity to perform in our Conservatory Christmas Capel and the Junior High Spring Dance Concert: DanceScapes.  Please note this class will require afterschool rehearsals the week prior to the performance. Due to Junior Conservatory- Dance classes being performance-based, participation and attendance to daily classes, technical rehearsals, tech week, and performances dates for DanceScapes are mandatory.

     

    Prerequisite: Hip Hop II students require a prerequisite of intermediate and or advanced Hip Hop technique. Additionally, dancers must audition into and receive approval from Mr. Baluyot before registering for this class. A class participation fee of $70.00 is required to participate in this course.   If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mr. DJ Baluyot at dbaluyot@vcs.net.