Animation

INTENTION

This course is intended to introduce Grade 11/12 students to the theory and practice of animation as used in commercial productions as well as more independent projects.

OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students should be able to demonstrate both a knowledge of the fundamental principles of animation, as well as the ability to create an animation using a variety of platforms using industry-recognized 3-D animation software as used in SFX, TV, Film and Video Games. While the emphasis is strongly on 3D software, there are opportunities to work with 2D platforms as well.

DELIVERY METHODS

Course content will be delivered in class using a variety of delivery methods, from online tutorials to hands-on demonstrations and workshops. Students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of animation through a series of online tutorials, then emulate them in a set of practical assignments using animation software. The core method is teacher-led direct instruction supported by online tutorials, then follows a gradual release-of-responsibility model as students become familiarized with the animation techniques and fundamental principles to include peer-to-peer learning. Assignments will be a combination of individual and group-based activities.

CURRICULUM

The curriculum will cover the fundamental principles of animation - eg exaggeration, squash and stretch, anticipation and timing; fundamentals of weight and volume; training in specific techniques of animating in 2-D and 3-D, as well as in pre-production techniques - planning, drafting and animatics; the use of camerawork, staging, editing and sound work together with the fundamentals of visual storytelling. Design principles will also be taught, especially regarding both character design and character work. In addition, career pathways will be introduced with an emphasis on interactive video games and independent TV + SFX work. Software used includes both Blender and Cascadeur with some Adobe options TBD. Motion capture was used in conjunction with our Dance Team and we plan to continue on this fruitful and exciting adventure.

The curriculum expectations will mirror those of the regular TGJ4M course in terms of evaluative structure.

COURSE PREREQUISITES

AWQ2M1, AWQ3M1, AWR3M1, TGJ3/4M, TGG3/4M or additionally TGJ2O or other equivalent experience with teacher permission.