Arts, Entertainment, and Design Cluster

Exploratory and Introduction to Digital Media (VP110)

Grade 9 · 3 Credits

In Grade 9, students participate in the Exploratory Program, where they are introduced to the foundational concepts of media production, aligned to the Vision of the Graduate.

Key focus areas include:

Pre-Production: Conceptualization, scriptwriting, planning, and equipment preparation.

Production: Teamwork, shot composition, audio, lighting, and technical equipment handling.

Post-Production: Basic video/audio editing using Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe Creative Suite.

Through hands-on projects, students develop essential skills such as teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving, foundational elements of the Vision of the Graduate.

Students are also introduced to:

Digital Citizenship: Understanding media’s societal impact and responsible technology use.

Safety and Professionalism: Following safe ergonomic and production practices.

Embedded math, literacy, and science skills support technical learning and prepare students to become innovative problem-solvers and effective collaborators.

Digital Media II (VP210)

Grade 10 · 3 Credits

In Grade 10, students build upon their foundational knowledge, advancing their skills in field and studio production while demonstrating traits outlined in the Vision of the Graduate.

Areas of focus include:

Pre-Production: Advanced narrative development, project management, and planning.

Production: Intermediate skills in camera operation, lighting, and audio equipment.

Post-Production: Editing and integrating graphics, audio mixing, and visual effects using Adobe Premiere Pro and other Creative Suite tools.

Students rotate through studio production roles (e.g., director, audio technician, floor manager), fostering leadership, effective communication, and team collaboration.

Emphasis is placed on adhering to safety standards and ethical media practices. Students are also introduced to career exploration, demonstrating readiness for evolving industry demands.

Digital Media III (VP310)

Grade 11 · 3 Credits

In Grade 11, students deepen their expertise and align their projects with industry standards, preparing to demonstrate the Vision of the Graduate traits of independent learners and technically proficient problem-solvers.

Focus areas include:

Field Production: Advanced camera systems, 3D animation tools like Autodesk Maya, and lighting techniques.

Post-Production: Using Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Avid Media Composer to create professional edits, motion graphics, and special effects.

Sound Design: Applying Foley sound, music mixing, and post-production techniques.

Students complete industry-inspired projects emphasizing freelance workflows and client-ready deliverables, preparing them for independence and professional success.

Embedded academic skills in math, literacy, and science further align with workforce expectations.

Digital Media IV (VP410)

Grade 12 · 3 Credits

In Grade 12, students demonstrate mastery through comprehensive capstone projects aligned with the Vision of the Graduate.

Students are expected to:

• Plan, pitch, and produce advanced projects showcasing creativity, collaboration, and technical expertise.

• Apply project management skills in pre-production, production, and post-production phases.

• Utilize industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite and Avid Media Composer to produce high-quality content.

The course integrates workplace readiness, emphasizing:

Leadership and Communication: Acting as project leaders and mentors to peers.

Career Readiness: Developing resumes, portfolios, and demo reels.

Professionalism: Practicing interview skills, job applications, and ethical conduct.

Students achieving proficiency may qualify for Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities.

Industry Credentials & Career Pathways

Graduates will be self-directed learners, collaborative leaders, and innovative thinkers, prepared to:

1. Enter the workforce in digital media or related industries.
2. Pursue advanced industry certifications.
3. Enroll in post-secondary education in media production, communications, or creative technologies.

Each course is aligned to the CTECS Vision of the Graduate, ensuring students graduate with:

1. Technical Proficiency: Industry-relevant skills and certifications.
2. Communication and Collaboration: Working effectively in teams and demonstrating leadership.
3. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Analyzing challenges and creating innovative solutions.
4. Workplace Readiness: Ethical conduct, professionalism, and employability skills.