Graphic Communications II Syllabus
by Irene Thraen-Borowski, Instructor
Course: Graphic Communications II
(college credit based + technological)
Course Description: This program provides an understanding of graphic design, photography, desktop publishing and digital imaging. Study includes work with computer software such as the full Adobe CS4 Suite. Students will develop depth and breadth in their portfolios. Students will work independently throughout the year on freelance projects and enhancing their portfolios. Throughout this course, vocational ethics, transitional skills and workplace etiquette skills are integrated. Students are made aware of the employment possibilities in the field of Advertising Design and Still Photography and are open to job shadowing.
Text and Supplemental Materials Used: Graphic Design Basics, amy e. arntson; various articles specific to graphic design, current events news articles, field trips, guest speakers, multi-modal presentations/technologies, local artists’ work, etc
Outcomes:
Outcome 1: Develop Art Awareness
Competencies: the successful student will be able to:
1. Use art vocabulary within the proper context
2. Develop a basic knowledge base of diverse artists and their movements
3. Make connections between artmaking and societies
4. Address weekly sketchbook questions showing evidence of building critical thinking skills
Assessment: project based activities, sketchbook, group discussions/activities, critiques
Outcome 2: Future Planning
Competencies: The successful student will be able to:
1. Master occupational skills
2. Identify and interpret client requests
3. Fill client requests/build professional portfolio
4. Research and apply to higher educational institution
Assessment: Freelance Jobs and Project based work. Portfolio Review. Outcomes post graphics class
Outcome 3: Master Design Skills
Competencies: The successful student will be able to:
1. Apply computer attributes, styles and effects
Assessment: Freelance Jobs and Project based work. Portfolio Review
Outcome 4: Master Layouts and Illustrations
Competencies: The successful student will be able to:
1. Layout comprehensives to client and printer specs
Assessment: Freelance Jobs, Project based and Portfolio Review
Outcome 5: Master Advanced Multimedia Skills
Competencies: The successful student will be able to:
1. Organize artwork on layers
2. Prepare and optimize graphics for the web
3. Animate graphics in 2-D and/or 3-D
4. Retouch a photo
5. Use type expressively
Assessment: Freelance jobs, Project based and Portfolio review
Outcome 6: Master an employment plan
Competencies: The successful student will be able to:
1. Ientify short-term work goals
2. Match attitudes to job area
3. Match personality type to job area
4. Identify career information from counseling sources
Assessment: Project based, Freelance Jobs and Introduction to Designers in the Community.
Outcome 7: Master Seeking and Applying for Employment Opportunities and Communicating on the Job while Maintaining Professionalism
Competencies: The successful student will be able to:
1. Prepare a resume
2. Prepare for a job interview
3. Write job application letter
4. Write interview follow-up letter
5. Complete job application form
6. Communicate orally with others
7. Use telephone etiquette
8. Follow directions
9. Ask questions about tasks
Assessment: Job shadowing with professionals on the Advisory Committee
Outcome 8: Interpreting the economics of work
Competencies: The successful student will be able to:
1. Identify the role of business in the economic system
2. Describe responsibilities of employee
3. Describe responsibilities of employer or management
Course Structure: Lecture, Demonstrations, Studio work, Guest Speakers, and Project based activities
Method of Instruction: Cooperative Learning, Technology, Reciprocal Teaching, Self-Regulated Learning, Critique, One-on-One Assistance, Multi-Sensory Learning, Critique, Differentiated Instruction
Method of Evaluation: Portfolio and Sketchbook Reviews at the close of each quarter.
