Syllabus for Advanced 3D Graphics

Advanced 3D Graphics 2010 - 2011

Most people think of 3D animation as the visuals that make blockbuster movies and video games possible, but the applications for this art form go well beyond entertainment venues including: architecture, medical, aerospace, engineering, historical recreations, archeology, biotechnology, and forensics. Surprisingly, only about 3% of all computer animation produced is for the entertainment industry.

This course is an intermediate course to of 3D graphics. Students will study advanced level methods and techniques involved within the industry. The curriculum is designed to give the students a foundation to 3D graphic tools and the confidence and skills to attack any new application. This intensive semester long course guides students to develop aesthetic, conceptual, and technical knowledge of design, while allowing students to progress at their own pace and ability. It will also help guide them to become active independent learners, better preparing them for any future career. This course is ideal for artists, and students pursuing careers in architecture, engineering, the medical industry, forensics, graphic design & advertising, industrial design, game design, entertainment industries, and any industry that deals will visual communication. *Meets MYP technology requirements

ATTENDANCE: Regular attendance is essential; classroom content is sequential and classes missed will affect student’s performance. Attendance is taken at the beginning of class; students need to be in their seat at the bell.

ABSENCES: Students will not be allowed admittance into class without a re-admit slip that indicates if the absence is excused or unexcused. Refer to the Parent/Student Handbook for questions related general school rules and policies as it will be followed in my class.

-- GRADING --

The Student's grade will reflect the work done on their independent projects, guided projects, assignments, sketch plan book and participation. The final grade will be based upon four categories: In-class grade - 10%, practice assignments - 30% final assignments – 40% and final exam - 20%.
IN-CLASS GRADE - 10%: Students are given 20 points per class for participation, performance and work ethics, points will be deducted for inappropriate use of time. (Examples: playing games, use of computer during lecture, Instant Messaging . . .)
PRACTICE ASSIGNMENTS – 30%: These assignments will consist of guided skill lessons and projects. *Grades will be weighted based on classroom time allotted.
FINAL ASSIGNMENTS – 40%: These assignments will consist of coached final projects. *Grades will be weighted based on classroom time allotted.
FINAL Exam – 20%: The final exam will consist of a video demo reel, final project, and vocabulary enrichment exam. *Grades will be weighted based on classroom time allotted.

BE HONEST: Cheating on assignments will not be tolerated and will result in a zero and parents will be contacted. Asking and allowing another person to copy an assignment is cheating and both people are at fault. Again, see the Parent/Student Handbook for further information.
CLASS WORK: Students need to be in their seat and be ready to begin work when the bell rings.

HOMEWORK: Homework will be given occasionally, majority of assignments need to be completed in class do to software and computer availability.
EXTRA HELP: Any time a student is in need of help, she/he can come and see me Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday mornings from 7am to 7:45 am (appointment).  We also have open studio every Tuesday from 3pm to 5pm.
MATERIALS: I highly recommend, NOT REQUIRED, that students purchase a thumb drive for portable storage and file back-up (minimum of 2 Gig). They are sold at any computer store and range from $6 - $10.

Students will be required to keep an ongoing portfolio of digital images as an archive as well as for documentation. These photos/images (ideally) will be taken as products are completed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Dan Cornell - DCornell2@cherrycreekschools.org