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AP Art and Design

AP Art and Design

ART501 and ART502 | Full-Year Course—Can be taken more than once.
Prerequisite: A minimum of three art classes. Two of the classes should be in the area students wish to study.

ELECTIVE ⬜9 ⬜10 ⬛11 ⬛12
⬜DMACC ⬜NCAA ⬜RAI

The AP Art and Design course framework presents an inquiry-based approach to learning about and making art and design. Students are expected to conduct an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials, processes, and ideas. The framework focuses on concepts and skills emphasized within college art and design foundations courses with the same intent: to help students become inquisitive, thoughtful artists and designers able to articulate information about their work. AP Art and Design students develop and apply skills of inquiry and investigation, practice, experimentation, revision, communication, and reflection.

Taking the Advanced Placement exam (submitting a portfolio) is the culmination of the AP course curriculum. Taking the exam, is required for a weighted grade at Valley and consideration for credit at the college or university of your choice. The course can be repeated if you choose to create a different portfolio.
Portfolios:

  • AP 2D Art and Design
  • AP 3D Art and Design
  • AP Drawing


Each portfolio will consist of the following:

  1. Sustained Investigation: 60%—Fifteen examples of finished art pieces and process photos from your sketchbook, investigating one topic. Written reflections.
  2. Selected Works: 40%—Five of your best art pieces. Written reflections.

Other requirements in this course include:

  • Pre-AP summer sketchbook assignments (Students will meet in the spring for details.)
  • Independent art exhibit at Valley or in the community
  • Development of a digital portfolio
  • Final collaborative AP Art and Design exhibit

It is highly advised to take the Advanced Placement exam as a culmination of the AP course curriculum. Students who successfully complete an AP course will have a .5 weighted grade applied to their GPA for the course. Students who participate in the AP exam will have a total of 1.0 weighted grade applied to their GPA for the course. Regardless of exam participation, a student's transcript will reflect the title of the AP course they enrolled in.

Each exam has a cost that will be incurred by the student. If students are in need of financial assistance to help with the cost of AP exams, please see your assigned counselor for information.