Course title

Pre-requisite

Course description

This course is an introductory course where students are introduced to various graphic communications fields while placing emphasis on visual communications and the aesthetic foundations of composition. Through this course students explore the foundations of both Graphic Design and Photography.
Students learn about theories and the application of the theories in design and photography; these theories include; compositional elements; design elements; color theory; editing styles; layout; and typography. Students learn about the operations of the following equipment: Manual DSLRs; pen and tablets; scanners; large format color printers; and screen printing. Students become familiarized with various software applications including: Adobe Photoshop; Adobe InDesign; and Adobe Illustrator; through tutorials; and replication practices and own application.
Students explore the many movements of art; design; photography; and marketing; throughout history (into present) to help them create their own style; and how to choose a style that is appropriate for real world clients. Students look at other graphic designers’ and photographers’ work to see their particular style; and to explore; interpret and analyze the artist’s conceptual meanings. Students also explore different cultures to help them better suite their real world clients.
Through demonstrations and hands on work; students will use the knowledge that they obtain to produce projects demanded by real world clients such as; program design; postcards; T – Shirt design; logo design; posters for campus; photo manipulation; and packaging designs (all projects allow students to practice combining their knowledge of both photography and graphic design). Students will be creating these products for our athletic department; fine arts department; and the school student store; to give them a true real world experience.
Students critique each others work at the completion of each project. Students speak about their interpretation of the piece in the terms of conceptual meaning; composition; and if their work performs to the standards of the client. Students also write personal reflections where they analyze; interpret and evaluate their own work. Through this students are discover what they could do to improve their work.
This course also explores the many different fields encompassed of these subject areas. Students learn information on careers; job applications; interviewing; equipment maintenance; equipment; lighting; computer basics; and customer service.

School country

School state

School city

School / district Address

School zip code

Requested competency code

Date submitted

Approved

Approved competency code

• CTE
• Career and technical education

• FIAR
• 1 year of Fine Art

Approved date

Online / Virtual