Graphic Design

Course Description

Graphic Design is an introduction to elements of design, spatial relationships, typography and imagery as they apply to practical visual solutions for self-promotion, resumes, logo design, Web design, and sequential systems. In this course, the student explores the basic foundations of design through a series of visual projects that explore the principles and elements of design. Students will work both with analog and digital media as they explore two-dimensional and three-dimensional design along with color theory. This course will help develop and explore a student's ability to communicate visually.

In each lesson students acquire new skills, which take some effort. Beyond fundamental skills are various levels of creativity. Each lesson provides room for a student to express the technical skill learned in his or her own creative way.

Major Concepts

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Show skills in lettering.
• Demonstrate techniques in layout design that include balance, margins, airspace, emphasis, and clarity.
• Solve assignment challenges with planning, practice, patience, and the use of techniques introduced in the course.
• Demonstrate awareness of art movements and artists throughout the history of design.
• Demonstrate good design principles with a focus on the composition of assignments.
• Demonstrate increased clarity and self-confidence in visual decision-making.
• Use increased awareness of visual elements in order to create a more successful design.
• Fill the role of a designer to enhance living by applying a developed sense of aesthetics and utility to the creation of a wide variety of images.
• Demonstrate visual literacy in discernment in the media of today.

Requirements

Grade Level
11-12

Software Needed (choose one):

• Adobe Illustrator (there is a cost associated, Mac OS X, Windows)
• Adobe Photoshop (there is a cost associated, Mac OS X, Windows)
• GIMP  (free downloadable, Mac OS X, Windows, GNU/Linux)
• Pixlr (free browser-based program, Mac OS X, Windows, GNU/Linux, Chrome OS)

Hands-On Materials (optional):

• triangle
• Exacto knife
• markers
• pencil
• good paper note pad
• colored pencils
• dotted line paper
• glue stick
• ruler
• scanner or camera so you can transmit photos/images of your finished work

Technical Requirements
Students will need a computer or laptop for this course; tablets are not sufficient.

Duration
1 Semester

Prerequisites
None

Technology Skills

• Internet Access
• Word Processor
• Email Access