Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Activities
Project Introduction Workshop - Engage students in a collaborative discussion about the project's focus on animation and themes of belonging and inclusion, outlining expectations and goals. (15 min)
Exploring Animation Principles Stations - Introduce interactive stations where students explore the 12 principles of animation through hands-on activities, such as flipbook creation and stop-motion trials. (45 min)
Reflection and Discussion - Facilitate a group reflection session where students share insights and ideas on how animation principles can convey themes of belonging and inclusion. (15 min)
Animation Principle Deep Dive - Focus on one animation principle, such as squash and stretch, using examples from professional animations to illustrate its impact on storytelling. (20 min)
Hands-On Squash and Stretch Activity - Guide students in creating short animations that apply the squash and stretch principle using digital software or physical models. (35 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Encourage students to share their animations and provide constructive feedback, focusing on the effective use of the principle. (20 min)
Exploring Character Design - Introduce the importance of character design in animation, highlighting techniques for creating relatable and inclusive characters. (25 min)
Character Creation Workshop - Facilitate a hands-on workshop where students sketch and develop characters that embody themes of belonging and inclusion. (35 min)
Gallery Walk - Organize a gallery walk where students display their character designs and discuss how they plan to integrate them into their animations. (15 min)
Storyboarding Basics - Teach students the fundamentals of storyboarding, emphasizing visual storytelling and planning scenes to convey narrative effectively. (30 min)
Storyboard Creation - Guide students in crafting storyboards for their animation projects, focusing on sequencing and incorporating the principles of animation. (30 min)
Storyboard Review - Facilitate small group sessions where students present their storyboards and gather feedback from peers to refine their ideas. (15 min)
Introduction to Animation Software - Provide an overview of animation software options, demonstrating basic tools and features that students will use in their projects. (30 min)
Software Exploration and Practice - Allow students to explore and practice using animation software, encouraging experimentation with digital techniques. (30 min)
Reflection and Planning - Conduct a reflective session where students assess their progress this week and outline next steps in their animation projects. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. A completed storyboard outlining the narrative and animation plan for each group's project.
Preparation 1. Prepare materials for interactive stations, including flipbook paper, stop-motion objects, and access to digital animation software.
2. Gather examples of animations that effectively use the 12 principles to discuss during the introduction session.
3. Set up a digital platform or physical space for students to share and collaborate on their storyboards and designs.
4. Ensure availability of art supplies such as markers, sketch pads, and digital tablets for character design work.
Week 2
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Animation Technique Workshop - Dive into timing and spacing techniques, demonstrating their impact on animation fluidity and storytelling. (25 min)
Group Animation Exercise - Collaborate in small groups to create short animations focusing on timing and spacing, using digital tools. (35 min)
Feedback and Reflection - Share group animations and exchange feedback, reflecting on how timing and spacing influence storytelling. (15 min)
Exploring Sound Design - Introduce the basics of sound design in animation, emphasizing its role in enhancing the narrative and emotional impact. (20 min)
Soundtrack Creation Activity - Guide students in selecting or creating soundtracks for their animations, aligning sound with visual elements. (40 min)
Sound Design Review - Conduct a peer review session where students present their soundtracks and discuss improvements. (15 min)
Advanced Character Animation Techniques - Focus on secondary actions and overlapping actions to create more realistic animations. (25 min)
Hands-On Character Animation - Students animate a sequence implementing secondary and overlapping actions, using digital software. (35 min)
Peer Review and Discussion - Facilitate a session for students to share animations and provide feedback on the use of advanced techniques. (15 min)
Scene Composition and Layout - Teach the principles of effective scene composition, focusing on camera angles and visual focus. (30 min)
Layout Design Workshop - Students design and sketch layouts for their animation scenes, incorporating composition principles. (30 min)
Layout Critique Session - Organize a critique session where students present their layouts and gather feedback for refinement. (15 min)
Introduction to Animation Editing - Provide an overview of editing software and techniques, highlighting the importance of pacing and transitions. (25 min)
Editing Practice Session - Allow students to practice editing their animation sequences, focusing on pacing and smooth transitions. (35 min)
Weekly Reflection and Planning - Reflect on the week's progress and plan next steps for project development, setting goals for Week 3. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Storyboard draft for the animation project
2. Character design sketches
Preparation 1. Gather art supplies including sketchpads, pencils, and colored markers for character design and storyboard creation
2. Ensure access to digital storyboard software and provide tutorials for students unfamiliar with the tools
3. Arrange for guest speaker or virtual session with a professional animator to discuss character development and storytelling
4. Prepare examples of effective storyboards and character designs from various animations that reflect themes of belonging and inclusion
Week 3
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Activities
Exploring Animation Timing and Spacing - Introduce students to the principles of timing and spacing in animation, emphasizing how they affect the perception of motion and storytelling. (30 min)
Timing and Spacing Workshop - Engage students in creating short animation sequences that demonstrate variations in timing and spacing using digital software. (35 min)
Peer Review Session - Facilitate a session where students share their sequences and offer feedback on the effectiveness of timing and spacing in conveying motion. (10 min)
Understanding Animation Arcs - Teach students the importance of arcs in animation and how they contribute to natural movement and fluidity. (20 min)
Hands-On Arcs Activity - Guide students in drawing arcs for different character movements and integrating them into their animation sequences. (40 min)
Reflection and Discussion - Lead a group discussion on how animation arcs enhance storytelling, focusing on themes of belonging and inclusion. (15 min)
Exploring Slow In and Slow Out - Explain the principle of slow in and slow out in animation, highlighting its role in creating realistic motion. (25 min)
Animation Exercise - Encourage students to apply slow in and slow out to their character animations using software tools. (35 min)
Feedback and Refinement - Organize peer review sessions for students to critique and refine their animations based on feedback received. (15 min)
Understanding Secondary Action - Introduce students to the concept of secondary action and its significance in adding depth to animations. (25 min)
Secondary Action Workshop - Facilitate a workshop where students incorporate secondary actions into their existing animations to enhance storytelling. (35 min)
Group Critique - Conduct a session where students present their animations and discuss how secondary actions contribute to narrative themes. (15 min)
Integrating Animation Principles - Guide students in synthesizing what they've learned by integrating multiple animation principles into a cohesive sequence. (30 min)
Project Planning - Assist students in outlining their animation projects for the next phase, focusing on applying principles to convey belonging and inclusion. (30 min)
Weekly Reflection - Lead a reflective session where students evaluate their progress and set goals for the upcoming weeks. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed Storyboards
2. Character Design Sketches
3. Draft Script
Preparation 1. Provide storyboard templates and examples for inspiration.
2. Gather character design resources, such as anatomy guides and style references.
3. Prepare script writing guides and examples of effective dialogue.
4. Set up a peer review protocol and guidelines to ensure constructive and respectful feedback.
Week 4
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Advanced Animation Techniques Workshop - Introduce advanced animation techniques such as rigging and keyframing, emphasizing their application in conveying complex emotions and themes. (30 min)
Hands-On Rigging and Keyframing Exercise - Guide students in applying these techniques to animate a character expressing a powerful emotion related to belonging or inclusion. (30 min)
Peer Review and Discussion - Facilitate a session where students share their animations, discuss challenges, and provide feedback on the use of advanced techniques. (15 min)
Sound Design Introduction - Explore the role of sound in animation, discussing how audio elements can enhance the narrative and emotional impact of an animation. (25 min)
Soundscaping Activity - Engage students in creating a soundscape for a short animated scene, using sound effects and music to convey belonging and inclusion. (35 min)
Sound Design Share-Out - Organize a session where students play their soundscapes for peers and discuss how sound choices contribute to the story. (15 min)
Integrating Sound and Animation - Demonstrate techniques for synchronizing audio with animation, focusing on timing and emotional resonance. (25 min)
Animation and Sound Synchronization Practice - Allow students to match their soundscapes with animated scenes, refining timing for maximum effect. (40 min)
Reflection on Sound Integration - Lead a discussion on the impact of sound integration on their projects and potential areas for improvement. (10 min)
Collaborative Story Development - Facilitate a session where students collaboratively refine their animation storylines, ensuring coherent narrative flow and thematic depth. (30 min)
Team Animation Planning - Guide students as they break down their animation projects into manageable tasks, assigning roles and responsibilities within their teams. (30 min)
Progress Check-In - Conduct brief check-ins with each team to assess their planning and provide guidance on next steps. (15 min)
Animation Production Day - Provide dedicated time for students to work on their animation projects, focusing on implementing their plans and refining animation sequences. (60 min)
Mini-Presentation and Feedback - Allow teams to showcase their progress to the class, receiving constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Refined storyboards and character designs.
2. First draft of key animation sequences demonstrating the application of the 12 principles of animation.
Preparation 1. Ensure access to digital animation software for all students.
2. Prepare a feedback rubric focusing on the 12 principles of animation and thematic elements.
3. Set up peer review groups and guidelines for constructive feedback sessions.
Week 5
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Day 25
Activities
Advanced Animation Techniques - Introduce complex animation techniques such as anticipation and exaggeration, demonstrating their impact on storytelling. (25 min)
Anticipation and Exaggeration Workshop - Engage students in applying these techniques to their animations, experimenting with different scenarios to enhance narrative impact. (35 min)
Peer Review Session - Facilitate peer feedback sessions where students share their animations and discuss the effectiveness of anticipation and exaggeration. (15 min)
Exploring Emotional Expression - Introduce methods for conveying emotions through animation, emphasizing character facial expressions and body language. (20 min)
Emotional Expression Activity - Guide students in creating animated scenes that depict a range of emotions, using character design and movement techniques. (40 min)
Group Critique - Encourage students to present their animations and receive feedback on their portrayal of emotions within the context of belonging and inclusion. (15 min)
Sound Design Integration - Teach students how to integrate sound design with visual elements to enhance emotional storytelling. (20 min)
Sound and Animation Sync Workshop - Assist students in synchronizing sound effects and music with their animated sequences, focusing on timing and mood. (40 min)
Reflection and Planning - Conduct a reflective session where students assess their progress and outline next steps for refining their projects. (15 min)
Refining Storyboards and Animation - Guide students in revisiting and refining their storyboards and animation sequences, ensuring coherence and clarity. (30 min)
Collaborative Editing Session - Facilitate group editing sessions where students collaborate to polish their animations, focusing on smooth transitions and cohesive storytelling. (30 min)
Feedback and Adjustment - Lead a peer review session where students provide constructive feedback to help refine each other's work. (15 min)
Final Animation Touch-ups - Assist students in making final adjustments to their animations, focusing on detailed refinement and visual quality. (30 min)
Project Presentation Prep - Prepare students for the upcoming exhibition by organizing their work and developing presentation materials. (30 min)
Weekly Reflection and Goal Setting - Lead a reflective session where students evaluate their progress and set goals for the remainder of the project. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed and revised storyboard that clearly demonstrates the application of the 12 principles of animation to convey the project's themes.
2. Rough animation drafts that include key scenes, showcasing the planned movement and timing for the final animation.
Preparation 1. Ensure access to animation software and tools for students to create digital and traditional animations.
2. Arrange a dedicated space for peer review sessions, equipped with projectors or large screens for animation playback.
3. Prepare feedback guidelines and rubrics to help students provide constructive and focused peer reviews.
4. Gather reference materials on animation techniques to assist students in refining their drafts.
Week 6
Day 26
Day 27
Day 28
Day 29
Day 30
Activities
Final Animation Sequence Development - Guide students in refining their animation sequences, ensuring seamless integration of all principles and themes of belonging and inclusion. (45 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Facilitate peer review sessions where students share their sequences and receive constructive feedback to enhance their projects. (30 min)
Sound Design Refinement - Assist students in fine-tuning their soundscapes to perfectly align with their animation sequences for emotional impact. (40 min)
Audio Synchronization Workshop - Provide guidance on synchronizing audio elements with animation sequences for cohesive storytelling. (35 min)
Final Project Assembly - Support students in assembling all components of their animation projects, including visuals, audio, and effects. (50 min)
Team Collaboration and Problem-Solving - Facilitate sessions where teams address challenges and collaborate on solutions to optimize their projects. (25 min)
Project Presentation Preparation - Assist students in preparing to present their complete animation projects, focusing on clear communication of themes and techniques. (40 min)
Mock Presentations and Feedback - Conduct mock presentations allowing students to practice and gather feedback to improve their final showcase. (35 min)
Final Touches and Revisions - Allow time for students to make final revisions and ensure their projects are polished and ready for exhibition. (45 min)
Weekly Reflection and Planning - Guide students in reflecting on their progress and setting goals for the upcoming exhibition week. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed Character Animation: Each student will submit a fully animated character sequence that incorporates at least three of the 12 principles of animation.
2. Peer Feedback Summary: Students will write a summary of the feedback received during critique sessions and outline their action plan for improving their animations.
3. Sound Design Proposal: Students will submit a proposal for the sound design of their animation, including a list of sound effects and music choices that support their story's themes.
Preparation 1. Animation Software Setup: Ensure all students have access to required animation software and tools for character animation.
2. Feedback Guidelines: Prepare guidelines and rubrics for peer feedback sessions to help students give and receive constructive critiques.
3. Sound Library Access: Provide access to a sound library and resources for music and sound effects exploration.
Week 7
Day 31
Day 32
Day 33
Day 34
Day 35
Activities
Finalizing Animation Sequences - Students focus on refining their animation sequences, ensuring all elements are cohesive and align with the themes of belonging and inclusion. (50 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Facilitate peer review sessions where students present their refined sequences and receive constructive feedback for final improvements. (25 min)
Sound Editing and Enhancement - Students concentrate on perfecting the sound design, ensuring audio elements complement the visual narrative effectively. (40 min)
Audio and Visual Synchronization - Assist students in synchronizing sound and visuals, focusing on timing and emotional impact to enhance storytelling. (35 min)
Project Integration and Assembly - Support students in integrating all components of their animation projects, including visual, audio, and special effects. (50 min)
Collaborative Problem-Solving - Facilitate team sessions to address any remaining challenges and ensure all elements work harmoniously. (25 min)
Presentation Rehearsals - Guide students in rehearsing their presentations, emphasizing clear communication of their animation themes and techniques. (40 min)
Mock Presentation Sessions - Conduct mock presentations where students practice in front of peers and gather feedback for refinement. (35 min)
Final Adjustments and Revisions - Allow students time to make any last-minute adjustments to polish their animation projects before the exhibition. (45 min)
Weekly Reflection and Planning - Engage students in reflecting on their progress and setting goals for the final exhibition week. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed individual animation sequences ready for final integration
2. Sound design plan including selected sound effects and music tracks
3. Integrated film draft incorporating all sequences with initial sound design
Preparation 1. Prepare sound design resources, including sound libraries and editing software
2. Set up editing stations with necessary software and hardware for group collaboration
3. Coordinate peer feedback sessions and provide guidelines for constructive critique
4. Ensure access to digital platforms for sharing and feedback collection
Week 8
Day 36
Day 37
Day 38
Day 39
Day 40
Activities
Final Animation Review - Conduct a comprehensive review session where students present their finalized animations to peers for feedback on storytelling and technical execution. (35 min)
Revisions and Refinements - Allow students time to incorporate feedback into their animations, focusing on polishing elements and ensuring thematic coherence. (40 min)
Sound and Visual Sync Check - Guide students in a detailed review of their animation's sound and visual synchronization, making necessary adjustments for seamless integration. (40 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Facilitate a session where students exchange constructive feedback on each other's synchronization work, focusing on emotional impact and clarity. (35 min)
Final Project Compilation - Assist students in compiling all elements of their animation projects, ensuring all components are cohesive and ready for presentation. (45 min)
Presentation Strategy Session - Guide students in developing strategies for effectively presenting their projects, highlighting key animation principles and thematic elements. (30 min)
Mock Presentation Rehearsals - Conduct mock presentations where students practice delivering their projects to peers, focusing on clarity, confidence, and engagement. (40 min)
Feedback and Adjustment Session - Provide time for students to refine their presentations based on peer and instructor feedback, enhancing their delivery and content. (35 min)
Final Exhibition Preparation - Allow students to make any last-minute adjustments to their projects and presentations, ensuring everything is polished and ready. (45 min)
Reflective Session and Celebration - Facilitate a reflective session where students share their learning experiences and celebrate their project's completion, setting the stage for the upcoming exhibition. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Refined animation sequences with integrated sound elements
2. Compilation of the final edited film ready for exhibition
3. Promotional materials for the community film festival
Preparation 1. Secure animation software licenses and ensure access to editing tools
2. Arrange access to sound recording equipment and editing software
3. Coordinate peer review sessions and feedback mechanisms
4. Organize exhibition space and materials for interactive stations
Week 9
Day 41
Day 42
Day 43
Day 44
Day 45
Activities
Final Project Polishing - Students dedicate time to make final refinements to their animation projects, ensuring all elements are cohesive and polished for the exhibition. (50 min)
Peer Feedback and Final Adjustments - Facilitate a session where students present their nearly finished projects to peers, receiving last-minute feedback for any necessary adjustments. (25 min)
Exhibition Setup Planning - Guide students in planning the setup and organization of their exhibition space, including display arrangements and technical requirements. (35 min)
Technical Run-through - Conduct a technical rehearsal to ensure that all animations play smoothly and that audio-visual equipment functions correctly for the exhibition. (40 min)
Presentation Rehearsals - Allow students to practice their presentation delivery, focusing on clear articulation of their animation's themes and techniques. (40 min)
Final Presentation Feedback - Facilitate a session where students receive constructive feedback from peers and instructors to enhance their final presentations. (35 min)
Exhibition Space Setup - Engage students in setting up the exhibition space, arranging displays and ensuring all technical elements are in place. (45 min)
Final Run-through and Checklist - Conduct a final run-through of the exhibition setup and presentations, using a checklist to ensure all elements are prepared. (30 min)
Exhibition Day: Community Film Festival - Host the community film festival where students present their completed animations to peers, family, and community members, highlighting the themes of belonging and inclusion. (75 min)
Deliverables
1. Final version of the animated film, polished and ready for presentation.
2. Peer review feedback notes and a summary of changes made based on this feedback.
3. Presentation outline for the community film festival, highlighting key aspects of the animation process and thematic exploration.
Preparation 1. Ensure access to computers with animation software for final edits and rendering of films.
2. Organize and set up the exhibition space with necessary equipment (projectors, screens, speakers) for the film festival.
3. Prepare materials and resources for interactive stations (storyboards, character sketches, etc.) to showcase during the exhibition.
4. Coordinate logistics for the community film festival, including invitations, programs, and refreshments.
5. Provide students with a checklist to ensure all elements of their presentation are prepared and practiced.