MYP Subject Groups

Subjects studied

M1-M5: Drama
M1-M3: Visual Art AND Music
M4-M5: Visual Art OR Music

Minutes per week

Drama: 60 min per week
Music: M1-M3 60 min per week, M4-M5 160 min per week
Visual Art: M1-M3 60 min per week, M4-M5 160 min per week

Teachers in 2008/09

Moshi
Drama: Carol Dawson
Music: Khari Lee
Visual Art: Jane Barnett

Arusha
Drama: Yolanda Romero-Garcia
Music: Andrena Gorman
Visual Art: Linda Willms

Subject Details

The arts subject group of the curriculum encompasses visual arts and performing arts and is of particular interest in an international program.

From the earliest times, artistic expression has been common to all cultures as human beings make statements through a variety of non-verbal forms and create objects which are aesthetically pleasing. Beyond the barrier of languages, the discovery of the cultural values of civilizations through their artistic production is one of the best ways to promote international understanding.

The coursework brings students into contact with the art forms and aesthetic values of other cultures as well as their own, and helps to develop perceptions between ideas and art. Students are encouraged to identify particular creative abilities and to master techniques appropriate to that form of expression. In addition to developing the student's own imagination and skills, the programme seeks to acquaint young people with the creations of men and women whose works have proven to be of enduring worth.

MYP arts is designed to help the student become a developing artist, one who is able to assess the level of skill and target the areas that need development. It organizes learning around the creative cycle, a dynamic, ongoing process of sensing, planning, creating and evaluating art, and one in which all the senses are involved. This cycle involves creative energy, communication, interaction and reflection.

Assessment Criteria

Criterion A: Knowledge and Understanding
Maximum 8
Students are expected to have a knowledge and understanding of the art form(s) studied. This criterion includes:

knowing and understanding the theoretical basis of the art form(s) studied
developing an understanding of themes and issues studied through the arts
using subject-specific terminology to show aesthetic and critical awareness when discussing their work or the work of others
understanding how historical developments and cultural perspectives have shaped the arts
understanding how theorists, practitioners and artists have contributed to the arts.

Criterion B: Application
Maximum 10
Students are expected to apply knowledge, understanding, skills and strategies to develop and elaborate ideas, themes or compositions. This criterion includes:

planning and organizing effectively to define and set goals, negotiate and make decisions
experimenting through both spontaneous and structured activities
choosing appropriate forms for the expression of ideas, thoughts and feelings in a creative manner
demonstrating a range of techniques and skills
finding original and inventive solutions
developing and elaborating ideas, themes and compositions to a point of realization
presenting work through formal or informal exhibitions and performances.

Criterion C: Reflection and Evaluation
Maximum 8
Students are expected to reflect on the themes and issues encountered during the course, and to evaluate creative development and processes. This criterion includes:

using a developmental workbook throughout the creative cycle
reflecting upon, evaluating, assessing and appraising work to support and promote creative development
using feedback and discussion on artwork to support creative development.

Criterion D: Artistic Awareness and Personal Engagement
Maximum 8
Students are expected to develop an aesthetic, cultural and critical awareness, and to engage with arts. This criterion includes:

showing sensitivity to one's own and different cultures
inviting and accepting views from others
showing self-motivation, initiative and a willingness to take artistic risks
supporting and encouraging peers towards a positive working environment.