Course Descriptions for Digital Arts 1  and 2

Course Name:  Digital Arts 1 
Course Number:  92122
Prerequisite:  None 
Open To Grades:  9-12 
Term:  Semester 
Course Description: In this first course students are introduced to and use the principles of Layout and Design and practice these principles by completing projects. Examples projects are xx and a computer generated portfolio.  Students prepare a career portfolio that allows them to meet the Graduation Standard(s): Career Exploration.  Grades are based on completed work, attendance, work ethic and final exam points.
Students use their technical reading skills by doing this allows them to meet the standard for Technical Reading. 

Course Name:  Digital Arts 2 
Course Number: 92122A
Prerequisite:  Digital Arts 1 
Open To Grades:  9-12 
Term:  Semester 
Course Description: In this course the knowledge and skills learned in Digital Arts 1 are built on by continuing to explore careers and investigate the colleges that offer pertinent course work. They will learn and use the principles of layout and design. Projects will include x.  Grades are based on completed work, attendance, work ethic and final exam points.
Also, students will work on web page design and video editing skills. Students must then create documents using a combination of these programs. Grades are based on completed work, attendance, work ethic and final exam points.      


Statement of Purpose:
Digital Arts 1 is a production-based class, which explores graphic design, photography, movie making, desktop publishing, and web production. These skills involve the use of design, digital imaging, page layout, conventional and digital photography, business, and journalism to ultimately produce a professional publication.

Course Goals:
After completing this course, students will be able to:
•    Demonstrate skills in the software programs, Microsoft Office – specifically Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, ILife – including iPhoto, iMovie, iTunes, and Garage Band.
•    Demonstrate skills necessary for entry-level graphics employment or for transfer to post-secondary education.
•    Compile a portfolio of their work on eFolio website.



Instructional Units:
The course will be developed around the following units of instruction:
•    Fundamentals of design, photo composition, and page layout.
•    Fundamentals of Digital Photography.
•    Introduction to Adobe Photoshop.
•    Journalism—interviewing, story writing, proof reading, and editing.
•    Business—advertising sales, marketing, invoicing, and bookkeeping.

Method of Instruction:
This is primarily a hands-on “lab” course incorporating project-based learning and activities, introduced through lectures and demonstrations.  Required technical reading will also be included.


Grading: 

Grades will be given on an A through F basis. Students will receive points based on their performance in two areas:

Projects You are graded on completed projects and written assignments.
Participation  - Professional Conduct Points.  Being physically and mentally in class, on time, and are fully engaged in class activities. 

What does it take to get a good grade in this class?
1.    Pay attention to all instructions.
2.    Work hard on your projects and complete them on time.
3.    Participate in class discussions and ask questions!
4.    Be respectful of everybody and everything in the classroom.
5.    Help others.
6.    Have good attendance.

Attendance: Missed work due to poor attendance in a lab class is very difficult to make up outside of class.  It is your responsibility to produce all assignments.  Generally speaking, poor attendance results in a poor grade.


Policies:

Students are not to surf the internet, check personal email, instant message, play music, videos or games or any other non-academic related internet activities during class.
No food, drinks, hats, coats, bandanas, sunglasses, or cell phones are allowed in the classroom.