YEAR 11 Design and Visual Communication

Aims 

To teach learners skills that provide a sound foundation in the principles of architectural, product and graphic design. 

Course Content 

At Year 11, learners develop their understanding of design thinking , graphics practice and design heritage through the development of spatial, product and graphic design projects. Learners start by generating ideas for a letter box which responds to the Purakau (Maori Myth) of how the Otago Peninsular was formed. In this learners are introduced to freehand sketching techniques and CAD modelling software. They then look at the work of an influential architect to inspire ideas for an office situated in a boat shed on the Otago Harbour.  In this learners consider site and client implications to develop their ideas with a range of architectural graphics practices. Finally, learners present their product and spatial design outcomes in a poster or other 2d format in order to demonstrate their understanding of graphic design principles. 

Skills

Through studying Design and Visual Communication, learners are challenged to be innovative, creative, and to show initiative. Learners are encouraged to think deeply about their designs’ application and consider the requirements of their designs’ construction with visual communication. 

Assessment 

In class assessments.

This subject has links with

Visual Art, Digital Technology, Science, Mathematics, Textiles

Prior knowledge required

None

Next Step 

NCEA Level 2 Design & Visual Communication