Graphic Design

Overview

Course Description

Graphic Design is an introduction to elements of design, spatial relationships, typography, and imagery as they apply to practical visual solutions for self-promotion, resumes, logo design, Web design, and sequential systems. In this course, the student explores the basic foundations of design through a series of visual projects that explore the principles and elements of design. Students will work both with analog and digital media as they explore two-dimensional and three-dimensional design along with color theory. This course will help develop and explore a student’s ability to communicate visually.

In each lesson, students acquire new skills, which take some effort. Beyond fundamental skills, students will develop various levels of creativity. Each lesson provides room for a student to express the technical skill learned in his or her own creative way.

Course Requirements

Grade Level

11 – 12

Software Needed (Choose One)

  • Adobe Illustrator (there is a cost associated, Mac OS X, Windows)
  • Adobe Photoshop (there is a cost associated, Mac OS X, Windows)
  • GIMP  (free downloadable, Mac OS X, Windows, GNU/Linux)
  • Pixlr (free browser-based program, Mac OS X, Windows, GNU/Linux, Chrome OS)

Materials

  • triangle
  • Exacto knife
  • markers
  • pencil
  • good paper note pad
  • colored pencils
  • dotted line paper
  • glue stick
  • ruler
  • scanner or camera so you can transmit photos/images of your finished work

Technical Requirements

Students will need a computer or laptop for this course; tablets are not sufficient.

Duration

1 Semester

Prerequisites

None

Technology Skills

  • Internet Navigation
  • Word Processing
  • Email Communication

Outline

Major Concepts

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  • Show skills in lettering.
  • Demonstrate techniques in layout design that include balance, margins, airspace, emphasis, and clarity.
  • Solve assignment challenges with planning, practice, patience, and the use of techniques introduced in the course.
  • Demonstrate awareness of art movements and artists throughout the history of design.
  • Demonstrate good design principles with a focus on the composition of assignments.
  • Demonstrate increased clarity and self-confidence in visual decision-making.
  • Use increased awareness of visual elements in order to create a more successful design.
  • Fill the role of a designer to enhance living by applying a developed sense of aesthetics and utility to the creation of a wide variety of images.
  • Demonstrate visual literacy in discernment in the media of today.