Digital Media Studies Courses
DIGITAL MEDIA STUDIES CLASSES
IBMYP COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 9-12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Computer Ed/Tech)
Prerequisite: None
Students in Computer Applications will develop necessary skills for a variety of computer applications. Practical uses for Microsoft Office applications for personal and business use are stressed in the areas of word processing, visual presentation, and spreadsheets. Career exploration will be required. This course includes units in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Digital Citizenship, Student Connect (Q), Computer Literacy and Career Exploration.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 11,12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Computer Ed/Tech)
Prerequisite: None
Advanced Technology has several components similar to the Computer Applications course, and this course also meets the D11 computer education graduation requirement.
However, the class is more fast-paced that Comp Apps, and so familiarity and experience with the curriculum’s software programs are needed. Practical uses for Microsoft Office applications for personal and business use are stressed in the areas of word processing, visual presentation, and spreadsheets. This course also includes units in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Digital Citizenship, Student Connect (Q), Computer Literacy, and Career Exploration. In addition to the faster-paced Comp Apps curriculum, elements of other software will be explored and students will create projects that demonstrate proficiency in those programs as well.
IBMYP TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN H
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 9,10
Credit per semester: 1.0 (Computer Ed/Tech)
Prerequisite: Recommended for students taking multiple core honors classes in 9th and/or 10th grade
This course delivers hands-on, process-oriented instruction in computer applications and design projects. Using the “Design Cycle,” project work focuses on inquiring, developing ideas, taking action, and evaluating. The course also provides proficiency in computer applications including multimedia applications such as Photoshop and Final Cut.
2D COMPUTER ANIMATION
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 9-12
Credit per semester: 1.0 (Computer Ed/Tech, PWR, PA, or Elective)
Prerequisite: None
An introduction to traditional animation and video animation. This course covers essential knowledge, skills, and concepts required for postsecondary fields of study. Students will digitally create 2D animations for videographics using industry-standard professional tools and software. Students will explore design processes related to 2D animation. Students will be prepared for nationally recognized certifications in animation.
3D COMPUTER ANIMATION
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 9-12
Credit per semester: 1.0 (Computer Ed/Tech, PWR, PA, or Elective)
Prerequisite: None
An introduction to 3D animation for video games and User Interfaced Experiences. This course covers essential knowledge skills in concepts required for post-secondary fields of study. Students will digitally create 3Danimations for cinema and video using industry-standard professional tools and software. Students will explore the design process related to 3Danimation. Students will be prepared for nationally recognized certifications in animation.
GAME PROGRAMMING AND DESIGN 1
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 9-12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Computer Ed/Tech; Postsecondary Workforce Readiness)
Prerequisite: None
Students will use non-programming problem-solving techniques to design, create, and test computer games using Game Maker Studio and Unity. The semester begins by learning how to use algorithms and heuristics to solve problems, these techniques will be essential to solving gaming problems. Students will learn how to use Photoshop and Illustrator to create custom gaming backgrounds, sprites, and animations. Final projects include a game designed and programmed by the students from scratch.
GAME PROGRAMMING AND DESIGN 2
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 9-12 Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Postsecondary Workforce Readiness or Computer Ed/Tech)
Prerequisite: Game Programming and Design I, IBMYP Computer Applications or Instructor Approval
Continues learning from Game Programming and Design 1 and includes the design and creation of original games.
Students will get a chance to continue working with Unity and image editing software, but will also have the chance to learn about 3D modelling and design, sound creation, and user interface design. The course introduces professional design techniques for the creation of engaging storylines with believable characters. The final project of the course is a student-produced game created as part of a group.
GAME PROGRAMMING AND DESIGN 3 and 4
Course Length: 1 Semester each Grade Level: 10-12
Credits per Semester: 1 (Postsecondary Workforce Readiness or Computer Ed/Tech)
Prerequisite: Game Programming 1 or 2, Java Programming Honors 1 or 2, or IB Computer Science
This course focuses on the design of games in 2D and 3D environments using modeling tools and game engines that support scripting for 3D environments. Assets modeled in 3D space will be used in the creation of computer programs written by the students. These courses extend the programming design skills introduced in Game Programming 1,2 or Java Programming Honors or IB Computer Science. Game Programming 4 moves students toward completely independent creations of games and animations in 3D environments.
JAVA PROGRAMMING 1,2 H
Course Length: 2 Semesters Gr. Level: 11–12
Credit per Semester: 1 (Computer Ed/Tech)
Prerequisite: Instructor Approval
Java is a multi-platform, widely-adopted higher-level computer programming language that is relatively easy to understand. The course focuses on software development, fundamentals of computer systems, and the relationship between computing systems and society. Students will be expected to acquire mastery of multiple aspects of Java. Students will learn the fundamentals of object-oriented programming. Mastery of a particular aspect (or mechanism) of computer science is defined as the ability to use that aspect appropriately for some non-trivial purpose that is well documented. Students will work to create programs from tutorials in class as well as planning a program of their own design. By the end of the course students will take their design for a program and will develop that program. Students will focus on learning a software development cycle as well as project management techniques, and will work to create a software solution that can be shared with a wider audience. With extra studying outside of class, students will have the opportunity to take the Java certification exam.
IB COMPUTER SCIENCE 5,6 STANDARD LEVEL (SL)
IB assessments (internal and external) are a requirement for this course.
Course Length: 2 Semesters Gr. Level: 11, 12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Computer Ed/Tech)
Prerequisite: Java Programming 1,2 or Game Programming 3 or 4
The IB Computer science SL course requires an understanding of the fundamental concepts of computational thinking as well as knowledge of how computers and other digital devices operate. The course, underpinned by conceptual thinking, draws on a wide spectrum of knowledge, and enables and empowers innovation, exploration and the acquisition of further knowledge. Students study how computer science interacts with and influences cultures, society and how individuals and societies behave, and the ethical issues involved. During the course the student will develop computational solutions by: Identifying a problem or unanswered question; designing, prototyping and testing a proposed solution; and liaising with clients to evaluate the success of the proposed solution and make recommendations for future development.
VIDEO PRODUCTION 1,2 (Honors option available)
Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade Level: 10-12
Credits per Semester: 1.0 (Postsecondary Workforce Readiness)
Prerequisite: None
This introductory course is project-based and collaborative. The students demonstrate proficiency through a variety of hands-on productions that are shot on HD camcorders, uploaded and edited with Final Cut Pro—an industry- standard video editing application—and finally exported into a usable format for the intended audience. Students learn and practice professional video production techniques, including preproduction, production, and post-production phases. Quality (of audio, lighting, shots, composition, effects, story, and editing) is stressed throughout the course. Students will also explore the ways video communicates with viewers and the methods by which it does so effectively.
Media literacy, project planning, and creative production are equally balanced. This course is appropriate for students preparing for careers in communications and media production, as well as for those students who desire to create personal videos of professional quality. Introduction to Video articulates to Pikes Peak State College (RTV 208) and is college-level in many respects.
For Honors credit: The Introduction to Video (Honors) course is an extension of Video Production 1,2 (see above). It’s intended for highly motivated and capable students who are prepared to meet the challenge of additional projects and assignments. There will be a reflective writing component as well.
ADVANCED VIDEO PRODUCTION 1,2 (Honors option available)
Course Length: 2 Semesters Gr. Level: 11, 12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Postsecondary Workforce Readiness)
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in Video Production 1,2 and Instructor Approval
This course builds on the skills developed by students in Video Production. It is a laboratory-workshop class of students who produce TerrorTV, Palmer’s videomagazine, which is broadcast to the school weekly, and on Channel 16, the D-11 cable channel. The duties of the students include writing, videotaping, editing, and performing in segments that include news, skits, events and personalities connected to life at school. Students will be expected to produce both individually and in groups. This course is appropriate for students who are preparing for careers in communications and media production, as well for those who want to develop advanced communication and collaboration skills that are valuable in college as well as in the workplace. Available for honors credit. Advanced Video articulates to Pikes Peak State College (RTV 218) and is college-level in many respects.
BROADCAST VIDEO PRODUCTION 1,2 (Honors option available)
Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade Level: 12
Credit per semester: 1.0 (PWR)
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in Advanced Video Production and Instructor Approval
This course builds on the skills developed by students in Advanced Video Production 1-2. Third-year students in the video program are the senior producers of TerrorTV. At this level, they must meet higher expectations for evaluating segments for inclusion in the show, demonstrate superior collaboration and leadership skills and a commitment to broadcast quality television production standards. Available for honors credit. Introduction to Video articulates to Pikes Peak Community College (MGD 164) and is college-level in many respects.
BEGINNING FILMMAKING 1, 2 (Honors option available)
Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade Level: 9-12
Credit Per Semester: 1.0 (Postsecondary Workforce Readiness or Humanities)
Prerequisite: None
This project-based course is focused on creating & making short films. Career & workforce readiness will be a part of the curriculum. A study of media & popular culture is also part of the class to enable students to understand the genres place & popularity, including an extended unit or documentaries & associated research skills in creating this genre of short film. Students will learn about the concepts, tools, & activities essential to getting started in filmmaking, video broadcasting, & media production (including screenwriting, storytelling, editing). Students will study video technologies, equipment operation, composition, lighting, sound recording, & audio production planning. Students will use production equipment in a classroom, virtual studio, and/or field environment & apply numerous studio & field production techniques. The class is geared toward application of hands-on approaches to video, film, & media broadcasting, as well as a study of short films & documentaries from which to learn. Students will receive instruction in using digital camcorders & professional video editing software, & then demonstrate their learning & skills in full production projects over the course of the class. Students will be able to work individually on some projects & collaborate in small groups as they create short films, videos, & audio projects. Final Cut Pro is the software used for editing.
DIGITAL AUDIO AND MUSIC PRODUCTION 1
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 10-12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Humanities)
Prerequisite: None
In this course students will be introduced to the hardware and software tools needed to create high-quality digital recordings. Logic Pro is the production/editing software used. Students will learn the basics of digital audio interface, how to build/create a song, and then how to arrange, edit, and mix their projects. The course includes editing audio, recording & editing MIDI, beats, as well as adding filters and tempo changes. There will be elements of creating specific genres of music, producing Foley effects for video, as well as opportunity for students to create songs of their choice.
Keyboards, microphones, and other equipment are available to the members of the class. This course is open to all students who want to be introduced to digital audio creation and recording technology. You do not have to be a musician or singer to enjoy and learn from this class. Digital Music and
Audio Production 1 articulates to Pikes Peak State College and is college-level in many aspects.
DIGITAL AUDIO AND MUSIC PRODUCTION 2
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 10-12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Postsecondary Workforce Readiness)
Prerequisite: Digital Music and Audio Production 1
Students will continue using Logic Pro, be introduced to other digital audio software applications, and will learn more advanced concepts of audio. The class will also learn the fundamentals of digital electronics and arithmetic. The projects will require a more advanced understanding of Logic Pro. This will include recording and editing audio, recording via MIDI, programming and editing MIDI, programming beats, manipulating tempo and time, and automating the mix using control surfaces. Students will learn how to install, maintain, and troubleshoot hardware used in both recording and as sound effects. The hardware component will also introduce the student to the different types of computer equipment used in a recording studio. The students will also be introduced to basic electronics and acoustics in order to design a functional sound studio or isolation booth.
Numerous keyboards, microphones, and other instruments are available to the students. Digital Music and Audio Production 2 articulates to Pikes Peak State College and is college-level in many respects.
DIGITAL AUDIO AND MUSIC PRODUCTION 3 and 4
Course Length: 1 Semester Grade Level: 11,12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Postsecondary Workforce Readiness)
Prerequisite: Digital Music and Audio Production 1 & 2
Students will move from a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) into more career-oriented skills and experiences. Using DAW proficiencies achieved in earlier courses, students will explore available careers in audio technology and learn real- world studio operations. Students taking this course may be able to work in apprenticeships with approved partners, growing in understanding of audio operations and adding to skills already achieved. New skills include setting up analog and digital audio for live events, stage productions as well as competencies associated with and studio recording. Studies include acoustics, audio-board interfaces & operations, microphone placement, monitor-speaker function and placement, wired and wireless audio systems, cabling, trouble-shooting and problem solving. Expectations include career research, practical studio experience, mentoring Digital Audio I & II students, creating a portfolio of work, and live audio management of school or other productions.
Students’ projects will build their resumes and prepare them for post-secondary studies and/or workforce placement
JOURNALISM 1,2
Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade Level: 9-12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Humanities or Elective)
Prerequisite: None
This is an introductory course to the fundamentals of journalism. Course content includes basic news writing, features, editorials, straight news, newspaper layout, copy reading, some photojournalism, and techniques of production. The course is a prerequisite for working on the staff of the school newspaper. Class members will be given the opportunity to report for the school newspaper.
JOURNALISM 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Course Length: Up to 6 Semesters Grade Level: 9-12
Credit per Semester: 1.0 (Humanities or Elective)
Prerequisite: Journalism 1, 2; Application Required
The newspaper course is a laboratory-workshop class of students responsible for the publication of the school newspaper. Each staff member assumes and/or delegates responsibility for the following: reporting and writing assigned stories, planning and editing sections, planning page layouts and content, assigning and taking pictures, and copy- proofreading stories. These responsibilities are determined by the staff member's position.