Lesson Plan Example
April 29, 2026First Year Graphic Communications
VGC1 First Year Graphic Communications 2.25 credits
Program topics include basic tools, layout, basic printing preparation, when to use certain programs, basic web design, and photography. Shop safety and the safe operation of tools and equipment are stressed. Additional topics include an overview of the offset printing industry and pre-press job functions such as advertising design, printing, and bindery.
Assessments:
Each week’s assignment is due the following Monday. 5 points will be deducted for each day it is late.
Each week's assignment will be assessed based on completion of the steps or parts provided in the handouts, and on either the accuracy or the creativity of the assignment. Students should be able to accurately follow instructions and put in the effort required to produce a compelling piece of work or precise work on the printing process.
Perfect attendance will award you 3 extra points to your final grade.
Final Grade:
Unit One Assignments: 30%
Unit Two Assignments: 30%
Unit Three Assignments: 30%
Attendance: 10%
Course calendar is subject to change.
|
Week |
Topic |
Homework/Shop Work |
Extra-credit opportunities |
|
1 |
Unit One: Computer Design
|
Study the tools for each program. |
Be able to name all the tools by sight. |
|
2 |
Photoshop |
Create a CD case |
Also, create a CD and a booklet |
|
3 |
Illustrator |
Illustrate a person/object/animal |
Illustrate a second piece |
|
4 |
InDesign |
Create a one-page brochure |
Create a two-paper brochure with a minimum of 6 pages to be saddle-stitched |
|
5 |
Dreamweaver |
Create a one-page website |
Create a 3-page website |
|
6 |
Printing Prep |
Set up one of your projects to be printed on the press |
Set up 2 or more to be printed on the press |
|
7 |
Unit Two: The Press
|
Learn the different parts of the press and go over the safety rules |
Be able to recite part names or rules when asked |
|
8 |
Ink & Paper |
Learn the different types of paper and how ink is used to make the images |
Be able to identify types of paper and explain the inking process |
|
9 |
Press Prep |
Take the design made and set up the four plates to be used for printing |
2 or more designs set up to print |
|
10 |
Printing |
Print 6 consistent copies of your design |
Do this to 2 or more designs |
|
11 |
Binding |
Learn the various types of binding and collating techniques |
If you made a two-page brochure, bind it with the saddle stitch. |
|
12 |
Photocopier |
Learn how to use a photocopier |
Bring in fruit for the class |
|
13 |
Unit Three: Photography
|
Learn the various types of cameras available |
Bring in your own camera to use. Either film or digital |
|
14 |
Film |
Photograph and develop one roll of film |
Shoot two rolls and create a 6-photograph spread for the class to put up for one week |
|
15 |
Digital |
Photograph and edit 15 images, each representing the 15 weeks of school so far |
Photograph 15 more shots to represent a friend's life at school |
|
16 |
Commercial Photography |
Photograph and edit scenes and objects for professional use |
Add your best photo(s) to a free stock website to help your fellow designers |
|
17 |
Portrait |
Photograph and edit 5 people (can be individuals couples, or groups) |
Photograph and edit 10 people |
|
18 |
Portfolio & Critique |
Learn how to put together a portfolio, how to provide helpful feedback, and decide what to focus on for the next year. |
Purchase a portfolio and start putting your pieces into it. |