Media Arts | SMUHSD Formal Course Description | Ms. Jamie Fanton, Teacher | Email: jfanton@smuhsd.org
In this class, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of art and explore technology as a medium. Studio experience will focus on you developing an individual style and creatively problem solving using the elements of art and principles of design. You will develop creative and technical skills using drawing, layout, media and special effects.
These skills will be applicable to a variety of professional design fields. Additionally, you will build a digital portfolio of work.
Course Topics
Topics will address the California State Visual Art Content Standards for high school proficiency in artistic perception, creative expression, historical and cultural context, aesthetic valuing, along with connection and application using a 2-dimensional experience.
Topics will include:
● Developing an understanding of the elements of art and principles of design
● Solving visual problems
● Developing strategies for visual brainstorming
● Learning the design process (thumbnails, digital development, and imaging)
● Developing technical skills using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
● Developing historical and cultural connections
● Exploring career opportunities in the Arts
Recommended Materials
Flash Drive
Expectations
In order to ensure a safe, supportive, and productive learning environment, I have the following expectations for all of my students:
Be Prompt
● Arrive to class on time.
● Complete assignments by the due date.
Be Prepared
● Come to class with an open mind, prepared to learn and work.
Be Present
● Actively listen and participate during presentations and demonstrations. ● Work only on art projects or sketchbooks during class time.
Be Respectful
● Be respectful to me, other students, and supplies.
Grading
You will be graded on your participation, studio conduct, class exercises, design journal and formal art projects. Specific expectations, grading criteria, and rubrics will be provided for each project.
A = 100% - 90%
B = 89% - 80%
C = 79% - 70%
D = 69% - 60%
F = Under 60%
Grading breakdown:
Formal Projects: 60%
Worksheets / Skill Builder Assignments: 15%
Design Journals: 15%
Participation: 10%
Participation Points
You will receive a grade for participation for each 6 week marking period. Full participation includes paying attention during instruction, respecting class rules, and actively working during studio time. Failure to follow class rules will result in a deduction of points.
Computer Lab Work Time
Several classes are held in the computer lab throughout the day. Consequently, there is limited availability for you to access the lab outside of your scheduled class time. While adequate work time will be provided to you to complete projects, it is important that you use your time well. If you need additional time, you may make an appointment to come during Tutorial.
Attendance
You should make your best effort to come to class. As most work is done in the studio, poor attendance results in low grades. All absences must be reported to the office. If you have an excused absence, it is your responsibility to check in with me when you return.
Tardiness
The school policy on tardiness and truancy is strictly followed. All students are to arrive at class on time. Attendance is updated in the system at the start of class. As per school policy, frequent lateness will result in administrative referrals and/or conferences with parents/guardians.
Phones
Per school policy, all students are required to secure their phones in a Yondr pouch at the beginning of class. Phones must remain in the pouch for the duration of the class period.
Computer Use
The computers are tools for learning and are to be used for classwork only. NO games, YouTube, social media, or online shopping while you are in class. Using the computers for non school purposes may result in the loss of participation points, the loss of computer privileges or an admin referral.
Personal Computers / Chromebooks/ iPads
Since you are in a computer lab, there is no need to use your personal computer, chromebook or Ipad while in this class. You will be asked to put it away if they are out.
Airpods / Music
While music will be allowed during designated work times, the use of Airpods or any wireless headphones is not permitted. If you would like to listen to music during designated times you may use the over ear headphones provided with your work station.
Food and Drink
Food and drinks are not allowed by the computers. If you need to have a snack, you can enjoy it in the hallway or in the outside area right outside M127. Please keep all drinks, including water bottles, in your backpack or on the floor.
Inspiration and Outside Sources
The internet can be a great source of inspiration. However, just like copying another author’s words for a paper, copying another artist's artwork is a form of plagiarism. You may reference images found online but must alter them and make them uniquely yours. Additionally, credit must be given to the original artist for any images used.
AI
To ensure that all work reflects each student's original ideas, skills, and creativity, the use of AI-generated content (including images, text, or designs created with tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Adobe image generators, etc ) is not allowed in this class. All projects must be created entirely by the student using the tools and techniques taught in class. Unless otherwise specified, using AI to complete or assist with assignments will be considered academic dishonesty.
Hall / Bathroom Passes
You are encouraged to use the restroom and refill water bottles during brunch, lunch, or in between classes. Per school policy, no students may leave during the first or last 10 minutes of the period.
If it is absolutely necessary for you to step out to use the restroom or get water, guidelines are as follows:
Before leaving, you must neatly fill out the designated hall pass and take it with you.
You can be gone for no more than 7 minutes. If you have an emergency and need longer, please let me know. I am more than happy to write you a pass to the Health Office or Wellness.
Make sure to neatly sign back in when you return.
Students who fail to sign out / back in or are gone for extended periods of time will lose bathroom privileges.