United States 10th Grade School Subjects - Electives (1-2 classes)

Tenth grade students in the United States typically take one or two elective courses in addition to their core academic subjects. Electives allow students to explore areas of interest, develop new skills, and broaden their horizons. The range of electives offered varies between schools, but some common categories and courses include:

Visual Arts

• Drawing and Painting: This foundational course introduces various drawing and painting techniques, covering topics such as composition, color theory, and the use of different media.
• Ceramics: Students learn the basics of working with clay, including hand-building techniques, wheel throwing, glazing, and firing.
• Photography: This course covers the principles of photography, including camera operation, composition, lighting, and darkroom or digital image processing techniques.
• Digital Arts: Students explore digital art creation using software and tools for graphic design, animation, and digital illustration.
• 3D Design: This course introduces the principles of three-dimensional design, including sculpture, model making, and other forms of spatial art.
• Art History: Students study the history of art, exploring different artistic movements, styles, and cultural contexts.

Performing Arts

• Theatre/Drama: Students learn acting techniques, stage presence, and improvisation, often participating in school productions.
• Music (Band, Orchestra, Choir): Students participate in instrumental or vocal ensembles, developing musical skills and performance experience.
• Jazz Band: Students explore jazz music, improvisation, and ensemble playing.
• Music Theory: This course covers the fundamentals of music theory, including harmony, rhythm, and melody.
• Guitar: Students learn basic guitar techniques, chords, and music theory.

Other Electives

• Foreign Language (Spanish, French, German, etc.): Students continue or begin learning a foreign language, developing communication skills and cultural understanding.
• Computer Science/Information Technology: These courses introduce computer programming, web design, or other IT-related skills.
• Business/Entrepreneurship: Students learn about business principles, marketing, finance, and potentially develop their own business ideas.
• Creative Writing: Students develop their writing skills through various creative writing exercises and projects.
• Journalism: Students learn about news writing, reporting, and media production.
• Public Speaking: This course helps students develop confidence and effective communication skills in public speaking.
• Personal Finance: Students learn about budgeting, saving, investing, and other essential financial literacy skills.
• Psychology: This course introduces the study of human behavior and mental processes.

This is not an exhaustive list, and the specific electives offered can vary. Students should consult their school's course catalog for a complete list of available options.