COURSE DESCRIPTION:

Graphic Design Essentials is a comprehensive Career Technical Education (CTE) course designed to introduce high school students to the exciting field of graphic design. This course emphasizes hands-on learning and creativity using accessible graphic design platforms, primarily Canva. Students will explore fundamental design principles, develop technical skills, and gain a deep understanding of how graphic design influences our visual culture. Whether you aspire to become a professional graphic designer or simply want to enhance your design skills, this course is your gateway to the world of visual communication.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

• Foundations of Design: To provide students with a solid understanding of graphic design principles, including layout, typography, color theory, and composition.
• Technical Proficiency: To develop students' proficiency in using graphic design platforms, with a primary focus on Canva.
• Creativity and Problem-Solving: To foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills through a variety of design projects and exercises.
• Cultural and Social Context: To explore the role of graphic design in shaping contemporary culture and communication.
• Preparation for Future Studies and Careers: To equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for advanced graphic design coursework or careers in design, marketing, or related fields.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Design Principles: Apply fundamental graphic design principles to create visually appealing and effective designs.
• Platform Proficiency: Utilize Canva's features and tools proficiently to manipulate images, text, and design elements for various projects.
• Critical Analysis: Analyze and critique design work, using appropriate design terminology and providing constructive feedback.
• Visual Communication: Recognize and explain the role of graphic design in contemporary culture and communication.
• Portfolio Development: Develop a portfolio of design work that showcases creativity and technical skills.
• Project Execution: Successfully complete a range of design projects, including posters, social media graphics, presentations, and more.

RULES/EXPECTATIONS:

1. Respect: Show respect to your peers and the instructor. Maintain a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
2. Attendance and participation: Attend all classes punctually and actively engage in discussions, group activities, and critiques. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to collect any missed notes, handouts, and assignments.
3. Technology Use: Use technology responsibly, ensuring compliance with copyright and licensing agreements for design assets.
4. Work Ethic: Dedicate sufficient time outside of class for assignments and projects, understanding that quality design requires practice and refinement.
5. Academic Integrity: Uphold academic honesty by avoiding plagiarism and cheating, and always attribute work or ideas that are not your own.
6. Materials: Ensure access to a computer with internet connectivity and Canva for completing assignments.
7. Respect me and our space, meaning absolutely no food/drinks is allowed in class. However, water is acceptable.
8. Tardiness: my expectation of being on time means you’re ready for the lesson, working on the “Do Now”. Work missed due to excessive tardiness will not be eligible for credit.
9. Electronic Devices: There is absolutely NO need for cell phones, Air/EarPods or Smartwatches to be used during class. Cellphones and Air/EarPods are to be stored away until the end of the class, out of sight, out of mind. Time is valuable and electronics are a distraction. Complete your work first, so you can carry on with your social life later.
10. Homework Policy: Homework assignments will be due the following day unless otherwise specified. Late work will not be accepted.
11. Leaving the room: There are no more than two people allowed out of the classroom per period. Per admin, there are no passes given in the last 10 minutes of class. When leaving the room, you must sign out and always have a pass.