COURSE SYLLABUS: DIGITAL ART
Overview:
Photoshop class at the 6th 7th, and 8th grade level is an introductory class using the computer program Adobe Photoshop CC. The main focus of this class is to produce digital artwork via the powerful raster-based (pixels) software, Photoshop. Students will learn the basics of this program through in class tutorials and final projects that will allow them to express themselves artistically. For this class, Photoshop will not be any different than using a pencil and/or a brush from a traditional art class. There will be a heavy emphasis on the technique just like you would handle any other type of art material and/or tool. For most projects, we will do a tutorial as a class, and then you will create something similar for a project grade on your own. The key to your success in this class is to be ready to work, not being tardy, completing all assigned work on time, and learning through observation.
Class Outcomes:
- Show appreciation for a new method of artistic expression
- Learn the basics of Photoshop
- Produce digital art through basic Photoshop skills
- Keep a portfolio of printed work
- Critique and evaluate your artwork and your peers
- Apply elements and principles of art and design to all projects
Materials
- Flash drive – recommended but not required.
Lessons
- This is a difficult class to make up if you are absent. This class does not have a textbook, so unless you have Photoshop at home, you will need to make up work before/after school in order to catch up.
Class Rules
- Be here, on time. Points will be deducted for any lateness.
- Be prepared.
- Participate in class.
- Never bring in outside work from other subjects/classes.
- Respect the equipment.
- Never bring food, drink or gum to the lab.
- Cell phones must be turned off before entering the classroom.
- Be in your seat and logged on by the bell.
- I will dismiss the class, not the bell.
- Log off before leaving the lab.
Grading Policy:
This class is demanding in the sense that I expect my students to show respect for this “new” art form and for art in general. This will be evident through your actions. In other words, you will earn your grade, whatever that may be. An (A) grade is one that reflects one’s ability and efforts that go above and beyond what’s expected. Like in any art class, the assumption is you will be as creative and as original as possible. This doesn’t always come easy. Work hard for your grade. Anything less will deserve lower than an (A) grade.
You will know ahead of time what is expected for each project via a rubric. Just like in a traditional art class, you will grade your own work using the rubric. Ultimately, though, I will evaluate your decisions and grade them accordingly.
Late Work: Projects that are turned in one day past the deadline will be given a full grade drop. An (A) quality work will only be worth a (B) if turned in a day late. A (B) becomes a (C), etc.
Absent Policy: My policy is aligned with the district’s policy on absences.