Graphic Design

Ms. Hammersmith
Email: chandon.hammersmith@thompsonschools.org
Dear Parent/Guardian,
I am looking forward to an exciting semester with your student in my graphic design
class. My intent is for all students to be able to express themselves artistically by
using art & graphics as a visual language.
Dear Student,
This course will acquaint you with the basic principles and design tools of Graphic
Design found in contemporary graphic design studios. Emphasis will be placed on
interpretive design, advertising layout, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.
As a class we will explore the elements and principles of design, color theory,
composition, the history of graphic design, graphic design artists, and the
conceptual design process. In addition, students will use Adobe C6 programs such
as In Design, Photoshop, & Illustrator. Advanced students will use tablets and
ArtRage to emphasize digital drawing and digital painting.
This course will provide a foundation of skills and understanding to create, interpret,
and discuss fine art graphics as well as the skills to move on to further advanced
fine art courses if you choose to do so.
Course Objectives:
Explore basic concepts and techniques used in graphic design
Apply design principles to create original graphics
Develop guiding questions that address lesson criteria that guides daily
learning
Be proficient in visual communication and personal expression
Use an illustration, design, and photo program
Create a digital portfolio
Focus on media literacy and its implications in our society
Learn about advertising, copyrights, and design career opportunities
How To Succeed
1. Be Respectful: Respect is one of the top classroom rules. I expect you to show
respect to yourself, your classmates, classroom/materials, and to your
teacher.
2. Be Prepared: Bring all necessary supplies.
3. Be Punctual: Arrive on time and do not leave early. Do not line up by door.
4. Be Honest: You are required to do your own work- this includes all creating
and ideas. Cheating/plagiarism will not be tolerated and will result in a 0 for
the project, meeting with both parent and principal, with possible suspension
or referral.
5. Be a Participant: Communication is a key part of the artistic process. You will
be expected to share opinions, comments, questions, and perspectives during
critiques and classroom discussions. Be respectful of other opinions.
6. Be Appropriate: Use computers for school work ONLY!

a. Inappropriate behavior can be defined as:

i. Improperly using computers, printers, tablets, materials, and
equipment
ii. Using school computers for other reasons than for the specific
project
iii. Throwing ANYTHING in the classroom, including trash & clay
iv. Downloading anything without permission/visiting inappropriate
websites
v. Bringing drinks/food in the computer lab
7. Follow LHS Code of Conduct: Appropriate behavior, dress, attendance, etc. can
be found in the LHS code of conduct.
8. Be Creative and Have Fun!: To excel in this art class you must be willing to
push yourself, think of new original ideas, and experiment with unfamiliar
materials.
Attendance
Consistent attendance is necessary to succeed in this class. There will be several
skill building demonstrations that cannot be repeated due to your absence. Arrive
on time and do not leave early. Please stay at your seat until the bell rings- there
will be NO lining up at the door. Please bring the necessary supplies, remain on task,
and clean up after yourself at the end of the period. Tardies will be enforced, if you
receive 4 or more tardies a contract will be issued to notify parent/guardian. If the
problem persists after the contract has been assigned, then an administrative
referral will be issued.
Grading
Along with work habits, grading will rely on the Colorado Visual Arts Standards
(Comprehend, Create, Transfer, & Reflect). Each project will be worth 100 pts.
Usually each project focuses on ideation/planning, craftsmanship/technical skills,
and critique/reflection. Under the work habits category, students will be graded on
following directions, effort and attitude, participation, cleaning, and also use of time
and the studio.
Cell Phones
Cell phones will not be allowed out during class. Cell phones are distracting and
unnecessary in the computer lab (all research can be done on computer). I reserve
the right to confiscate a cell phone if found being out and/or used during class time.
The phone will be returned at the end of the period. If this happens more than once,
the student will be referred to administration to address the issue further.
Late Work
If you are absent, it is your responsibility to talk to a classmate or talk to me
about what you miss. I will not be hunting students down to catch everyone up on
missed assignments. Turning in late work will affect the effort and attitude grade.
Each day late points will be deducted.
Supplies

There is a class fee that covers ink, regular and photo paper, cameras, computer
equipment upkeep, as well as miscellaneous supplies. I will provide sketchbooks,
you are required to bring in a binder (1-2) as well as a jump drive.
____________________________________________________________________________
I, _________________________________, have read and understand the expectations,
guidelines, and rules presented above.
_________________________________
Student Signature

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Date

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Parent Signature

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Date