Course Description:  

We will learn and apply the fundamentals of various software applications (such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop), web design, image editing, drawing, and some graphic animation. Advertising and marketing projects coordinate technical skills with organization, management, communication, ethics, and teamwork. 

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We will be given challenging real-world projects and assignments typical of the graphic design industry. High-quality work is expected and students will be given opportunities to redo work until it meets standards specified during instruction. Classroom activities will include reading, research, projects, and problem-solving.  Assessment methods will include quizzes; daily assignments; written exams; and projects. Prerequisites: BIM OR Principles of Arts & Tech 

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Learning Objectives: 

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the elements of graphic design.

•  Read, understand, and communicate in the language of graphic design. 

• Use technology such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Google Chrome. 

• Students will learn to demonstrate positive work behavior. 

• Students will learn to solve problems using critical thinking. 

 

Implementation Outline:

This course is student-centered where the teacher guides and facilitates learning.

This outline is structured with clear objectives, activities, and assessments.

This outline uses a blended learning approach with face-to-face instruction and online collaboration using Google Classroom as the LMS.

 

1st 6 Weeks

 

Introduction to Course (Week 1)

• Welcome and Introduction Video

• Introduction to the course objectives, syllabus, 3-column table 

• Overview of Graphic Design and Class Procedures

• Setting up Google Class and Adobe accounts

• Assignment: Reflective essay on personal expectations and goals for the course

 

Unit 1: Introduction to Graphic Design (Week 2)

• Introduction to Graphic Design “What is Graphic Design?"

• Discussion on the role of graphic designers in various industries and career paths in graphic design.

• Interactive lecture on basic design principles and elements.

• Hands-on activity: Introduction to design software in the iMac lab.

• Assignment: About me video using Canva

 

Unit 2: Creating an ePortfolio (Week 3)

• Understanding the importance of an ePortfolio in showcasing design work and building a professional online presence.

• Reviewing examples of ePortfolios and discussing best practices.

• Setting up and customizing an ePortfolio using platforms.

• Hands-on activity: Selecting and organizing design projects for inclusion in the ePortfolio.

• Assignment: Complete and submit the initial version of the ePortfolio.

 

Unit 3: History & Evolution of Graphic Design (Week 4)

• Introduction to the historical timeline of graphic design and key movements

• Discussion on the impact of technological advancements on graphic design throughout history.

• Case study analysis: Examining iconic graphic design pieces from different eras.

• Guest lecture by a graphic design professional (Our Director of Communications).

• Assignment: Research and presentation on a chosen period or movement in graphic design history.

• Add to ePortfolio and write a reflection.

 

Unit 4: Principles of Graphic Design (Week 5)

• Detailed exploration of fundamental design principles (ex: balance, contrast, rhythm).

• Application of design principles assignment.

• Hands-on activity: Creating design compositions focusing on specific principles.

• Group discussion on the importance of typography and layout in effective graphic design.

• Assignment: Design project - applying learned fundamentals with emphasis on design principles.

• Add to ePortfolio and write a reflection.

 

Unit 5: Elements of Graphic Design (Week 6)

• Introduction to elements of graphic design (ex: line, shape, color).

• Application: Experimenting with various design elements to convey different messages and emotions.

• Guest speaker (Art Teacher) using color theory in design.

• Hands-on activity: Creating a design project using elements of design.

• Assignment: Design project - applying learned elements using color theory.

• Add to ePortfolio and write a reflection.

 

Assessment Of/For/As Learning:

 

Assessment of Learning

Complete and submit the initial and final version of the ePortfolio
Research and presentations

Assessing students' ability to apply knowledge through quizzes and tests

Assessment for Learning

Hands-on activities  and projects

Creation of an ePortfolio

Case study analysis and reflective essay

Peer reviews, self- assessments and checkpoints

Assessment as Learning

Selecting and organizing design projects for ePortfolio

Self assessment and reflections

Group discussion 
 

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COVA Considerations:

 

Choice:

Students have the choice to explore various topics within graphic design.

They get to choose their own design projects and select which pieces to include in their ePortfolio.

Students also have the choice to use different design software and platforms for their assignments.

 

Ownership:

Students take ownership of their learning by setting up their Google Class and Adobe accounts, which gives them autonomy and responsibility for managing their coursework.

They are responsible for selecting and organizing their design projects to include in their ePortfolio.

Students take ownership of their design through hands-on activities and assignments. They have ownership of the creation, reflection, and presentation in their ePortfolios.

 

Voice:

Students express their thoughts, opinions, and creativity throughout the course.

Students share their expectations and goals for the course through the reflective essay assignment.

Students participate in discussions on topics related to graphic design.

Students research and present allowing them to showcase their voice.

 

Authenticity:

The course includes real-world application of graphic design skills.

Students create authentic design projects and compile them into an ePortfolio.

Students engage in case study analysis.

Students get to hear guest speakers discuss authentic insights into the field of graphic design and its applications.

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