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Course Questions:
What is graphic design?
How do the core principles of design function as the foundational language of visual art?
What creative processes, critical thinking, and ethical considerations are essential for developing original and effective design solutions?
How does a designer's journey from initial concept and experimentation lead to a well-crafted, sophisticated, and final product?
Skills Gained
Master foundational design principles: Apply core concepts of line, shape, color, hierarchy, and balance to create effective visual compositions.
Demonstrate software proficiency: Gain hands-on expertise in both raster (Photoshop/GIMP) for image editing and vector (Illustrator/Inkscape) for creating scalable graphics.
Utilize a strategic creative process: Employ a professional design workflow, moving from research and brainstorming to prototyping, critique, and final execution.
Communicate effectively with typography: Understand and apply the principles of typography as a powerful tool for visual storytelling and clear communication.
Integrate technology tools ethically: Critically evaluate and strategically use tech for creative ideation, concept development, and workflow optimization.
Class Standards
Assignments should be completed on the due date as shown in Google Classroom. Submission of work must follow the correct procedure or work may not be graded. Late work will be marked down for each day late. Class critiques will include examination and analysis of student work. You will also be asked to provide at least one written self-evaluation. All on-time work that has been completed with a visible investment of time and energy can be reworked or redone for an improved grade with permission from the instructor.
Major Assessments (Summative Assessments) – 50%:
This portion of your grade is based on your completed studio projects and overall portfolio. Projects are evaluated using a rubric that focuses on:
Creative Process & Originality: Finding a unique solution while respecting copyright.
Technical Skill & Craftsmanship: The quality of your execution using digital tools.
Design Principles: Effective application of the elements and principles of design.
Communication & Visual Accomplishment: How well your work communicates a message
and holds a high standard of visual interest.Final Critiques: Your ability to provide and receive feedback through written and verbal
critiques and self-assessments.
Minor Assessments – 50%:
This portion of your grade is based on the daily work and foundational tasks that support your major projects. It includes:
Daily Participation: Active engagement in class discussions and activities.
Progress Benchmarks: Formative check-ins on your work, such as sketchbook entries,
image research, and brainstorming exercises.Quizzes & Short Writing: Assignments designed to check your understanding of key concepts and terminology.
Supplies:
CHS Google account (an absolute must, so remember your user name & password!)
Tablets, desktop computers and software are used during this class. All materials must be respected and in good condition at the end of the class or you may incur a fine. Anyone who does not respect or misuses the equipment, computer or internet privileges will be given alternate written and drawing assignments as coursework.
Scope and Sequence: Sequential in development of skills covering basic units:
Unit I: Foundations of Design
Unit II: Intro to Photoshop
Unit III: Image Manipulation
Unit IV: Intro to Illustrator
Unit V: Shape and Type
Unit VI: Layout Design
Each unit covers art production, art analysis/evaluation, historical or cultural connections and critique. As outlined by NJCCS for the Visual Arts. Units will have several minor assessments. Some units will involve multiple projects, which account for major assessments. 10-12 projects could be completed in 1 semester.
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