Course Orientation

Welcome to Visual Composition!!

In taking a graphics course you probably have some interest in this field, or would like to know more about graphic design. Graphic design is the art of visual communication through the use of images, words, and ideas to give information to the viewers. Graphic design can be used for advertising, or just for entertainment intended for the mind.

Image Source: www.warlordgames.com

Digital technology has become integrated into every aspect of visual communications. New digital techniques and tools for designers are being invented every day. Many more options and solutions for design and art projects can be explored in greater detail and in less time. The ease of use and inexpensive cost of hardware and software has given the public the ability to create computer-generated graphics and artwork. However, the availability of technology and the advances in imaging and production techniques will not cover up what is essentially a bad design. The history of design teaches us the same elements and principles of design have always existed, regardless of the medium or technique. As the marketplace and galleries become saturated with digitally produced images, knowledge of the fundamentals of design becomes even more important. To create sophisticated visuals, which entertain and communicate effectively, an artist or designer cannot ignore what defines design.

You will earn one credit toward your high school diploma, by completing this course

You need these course prerequisites to begin:

There are no prerequisites for COM 1005: Visual Composition

Course Organization:

This Visual Composition course is broken down into 4 individual module sessions. Each session contains the information needed to complete the assignments, as well as several videos, links and online activities to help build connections and context for the information presented. At the end of each lesson, students will be asked to complete one or two short assignments about the content in the lesson and at the end of the course complete the final project.

Course Expectations of You, The Learner

To earn credit in this course you must achieve a course grade of at least 50%. The following mark distribution shows how your course grade is calculated.

Colour Wheel Assignment	10%
Visual Scale Assignment	10%
Movie Poster Critique Assignment	10%
Words Literally Assignment	10%
Monogram Assignment	10%
Career Choice Assignment	10%
Final Project	35%
Self-Assessment	5%
Total	100%

Please note: The course self assessment is assessed by both yourself and your teacher.

Course Expectations of Your Teacher

Your teacher is available to support you by

addressing any questions or concerns you have about the course content, a particular project or assignment
assessing your work
communicating your grades and providing feedback about your work
advising you about other courses available to you

Please note: Suggested times are approximate guidelines. As a unique learner, you may require more or less time to complete a session or a particular project.

Final Project

For the final project for Visual Composition, you will be choosing creating two (2) unique visual compostions usning the elements and principles of design and typograpy that you will learn aout in this course. Once complete, you will critique your own work.

For more information on the final project, please look at the final project book.