Course Syllabus
Home Court Advantage
In this classroom, you will experience what we call here at Del Norte, the Home Court Advantage. Home Court Advantage refers to how we treat each other by assuming the highest standards in Safety, Support, and Belonging. As a member of this class and this school, we will expect that this is a SAFE place to be who you are, that we will SUPPORT each other no matter who we are, and that we BELONG because we are members of something bigger than ourselves.
3D Animation, What is it?
3D Animation is a CTE multilevel course that focuses on the art and techniques of computer animation. In levels 1-2, students learn the basic elements of art and principles of design, how to use animation software (Blender), how to model, create accurate lighting, work with cameras, create movement with armatures, and render both still and moving pieces. This course meets PUSD Fine Art and Practical Art credit and UC/CSU ‘f’ Elective Credit (Students must complete 1 and 2 to receive UC/CSU ‘f’ credit).
Palomar College Articulation
Levels 1 and 2 are articulated with a course at Palomar College. What that means is that you can get 3 units of elective college credit if you complete Animation 1 & 2 with an A or B grade in each course. See the Articulation Credit page for more information.
Can I get a job doing this?
Take a look at some of the career opportunities available in 3D Animation. I think you'll be surprised.
What to expect and what is expected
- Expect to perform with the utmost of academic integrity
- Expect that you are here to be a learner and a creator
- Expect to be on-time
- Expect to help others with what you learn
- Expect to have fun
- Come to class prepared
- Stay focused on the task at hand
- Your work will be YOUR work, plagiarism is lazy and not tolerated
- Take care of the equipment, your space, and the room
- Do not chat with others when I'm lecturing or when we are discussing
- Not use cell phones in class unless I OK it
- Visit the restroom between classes
- Have fun
What do I need to know?
- you should know how to use a 3 button computer mouse ("right click", "left click", "middle click", "click and drag", etc.)
- you should know how to stay on task
- you should know how to be kind and helpful to others
- you should know how to let go of your artistic insecurities
- you should know how to think with meaning
- you should know how to have fun and be productive at the same time
What you need to work at home
Computer:
A newer computer is obviously going to work better, but be sure to take a look at the system requirements for Blender to see if your current computer is going to cause joy or pain. A three button mouse is necessary to adequately use Blender.
Download:
Blender 2.8x
Be sure to get the correct version for your computer. If you are working on a PC, you may need to also download the correct version of Python. Don't freak-out, the installation file will walk you through the process.
Internet Access (to download Blender and possibly file transfer):
A cable or DSL connection is preferable, but a dial-up connection should work fine. I, unfortunately, don't have the capacity to check a dial-up connection. If you have one, please let me know.
Transferring Files (if working between home and school or multiple computers):
It is helpful to have a 2-4 GB, or more, thumb drive for transferring files between school and home or multiple computers. Obviously the 4 GB or higher thumb drive is better for transferring more files.
- NOTE: Thumb Drives don't last forever. They have a limited amount of read/writes and should last a typical student a few years on average.
Another way to transfer files is to use your Google Drive account via MyPlan. Another option is to open a DropBox account to upload/download your files there.
Virtual Learning / Videoconferencing Protocols:
During Zoom classes, Nighthawks will…
- Sign in with your school assigned email.
- Use your full First and Last Name.
- Use live video whenever possible. If not possible, Nighthawks are proactive and talk with the teacher as to why it’s not possible.
- Use appropriate and non-distracting backgrounds during calls.
- Ensure your face is clear and identifiable when using live video.
- Understand that Zoom calls are an extension of the regular school day. Therefore, Nighthawks follow all school rules (e.g., no inappropriate language, behavior, dress code, drugs/alcohol/vaping, weapons, or any look-alike/replica items) during these calls.
- Follow video and audio recording school rules by not recording meetings or taking screenshots of meetings, the teacher, or other students without expressed written consent.
- Understand that eating, drinking, use of cell phones, or other devices can distract from the learning environment and therefore, will follow your teacher’s guidance regarding the use of such items.
- Understand that positive attendance (tardies, absences) and participation in Zoom calls is the first step toward success in my classes. Attendance for the entirety of a live zoom/meeting/activity is required, and following the bell schedule and your course schedule is the expectation.
Assignment grades are ONLY posted in MyConnect
- Weighting = Projects 70%, Work Evidence 10%, Final 20%
- Projects = 15 points each
- Work Evidence = 5 points each (3 per project)
- Artist Statement = 5 points each
- Challenge options = up to 10% extra credit per project
- Final assignments
- Personal Artist Statement - 15 points
- eMuseum - 100+ points (can vary based on project requirements)
- Late work deducted 10% per day
- No late work accepted within two weeks of the end of the trimester
Grades will be updated as assignments are graded. I do my best to grade as quickly as possible, but life does happen.
Current assignment grades can be found by selecting the Grades button on the left.
Official 6 week and 12 week grades will be posted in Synergy located at http://sis.powayusd.com.
Course Summary:
| Date | Details | Due |
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