Are you a fan of cartoon network? Do read graphic novels regularly? Do you enjoy creating cartoon characters in your notebooks? Do you like working with the computer? If you said yes to any of the previous questions, this is the class for you!

In the cartoon/animation classroom you will learn how to draw characters, make comic books, create flipbooks and how to color animate your images using computer software.

Cartoon Animation 1-2

Teacher Contact Info:
Mrs. Vance      e-mail: erinvance@u-46.org *best form of communication*
Voicemail: (630) 213-5500 ext. 8649

What’s this class about?
This first year course in cartoon/animation is designed to increase a student’s visual and motor skills in the cartoon genre.  The class will concentrate the elements of design: line, value, shape, and color throughout the year.  Drawing styles will be up to the student.  I am going to help each student keep a consistent style and help create scenes and other characters to match their preferred style.  Animation will be the main focus of second semester.

What are we going to do?
You will learn and discuss the history of cartooning and animation. You will master various techniques in pencil, pen, colored pencil, and using the computer.  These techniques will be used in the following exercises and projects: Character building, Computer Animation, Animation Cell, Comic Book Cover, Photoshop Coloring, Family CaricaturesHistorical/Political Comic, Flip Book, Storyboarding

Do I need to buy supplies?                                              
You will only need to bring pencils to class.  All other supplies will be given to you once the $10 class fee is paid.  This payment gives you access to all cartoon animation supplies and you will get your very own sketchbook as well as some technical pens and erasers.

When are assignments due?
You will get ample amount of time to complete each project.  Unless otherwise announced, all projects can be turned in up to one week after the last day we work in class.  Smaller assignments and homework will be due the day specified and will not be accepted late unless there is an excused absence. 

Can I work during Study Hall and before or after school?
I am at school till at least 3:30pm everyday.  You are always welcome to come in after school and work on any artwork.  To come during a free period or study hall, you must get a pass before coming to work. 
*Note: I am at Elgin HS in the morning, so you must talk to another art teacher to get permission to work before school*

How will I be graded?
Your grade consists of small exercises and worksheets, large projects, work ethic and participation, which will be awarded after each unit.  Your grade will be based on execution of art techniques and skills, craftsmanship, productivity, and creativity.
           
     Large Projects will be the majority of your grade and will be graded as seen below:
                       
90 and above – A         exceeds requirements
80 and above – B         meets requirements
70 and above – C         meets requirements minimally
60 and above – D         attempt made, but requirements not met
59 and below – F         used little to no effort

**Field Trips:  Students must have a C or above in all Art classes, No referrals in all Art classes, and no truancies or excessive tardies to attend any field trip.*

What are Mrs. Vance’s Rules?

1. RESPECT your teachers, classmates, and the supplies
2. Keep all supplies in your art bin, do not keep them in your locker
3. Quiet talking is allowed if working productively
4. No Food or Drinks, ingesting clay is not good for your health!
5. No MP3 players – there will be music, don’t worry

*Remember:  Think before you act.  All actions have consequences!

So... How can I succeed in Mrs. Vance’s class?

• Enjoy the class! –if you do not, we can work together so you can!
• Turn in all your work on time, remember you get an extra week!
• Experiment – the best ideas come from trial and error
• Start keeping a sketchbook to record all of your ideas (especially if you plan on taking more art classes or make a career in art)
• Believe in yourself and your art!!

  

Cartoon Animation 3-4

Teacher Contact Info:
Mrs. Vance      e-mail: erinvance@u-46.org *best form of communication*
Voicemail: (630) 213-5500 ext. 8649

What’s this class about?
This second year course in cartoon/animation is designed to advance a student’s cartooning and animation skills, focusing on creativity and technical ability.  The class will concentrate the elements of design: line, value, shape, and color throughout the year.  Drawing styles will be up to the student.  I am going to help each student keep a consistent style and help create scenes and other characters to match their preferred style. 

What are we going to do?
You will learn and discuss the history of cartooning and animation. You will master various techniques in pencil, pen, colored pencil, and using the computer.  These techniques will be used in the following exercises and projects: Animation Cel, Comic Book, Stop Motion Animation, Weekly Comic Strip, Photoshop Drawing, Computer Animation
                                                                       
Do I need to buy supplies?                                              
You will only need to bring pencils to class.  All other supplies will be given to you once the $10 class fee is paid.  This payment gives you access to all cartoon animation supplies and you will get your very own sketchbook as well as some technical pens and erasers.

When are assignments due?
You will get ample amount of time to complete each project.  Unless otherwise announced, all projects can be turned in up to one week after the last day we work in class.  Smaller assignments and homework will be due the day specified and will not be accepted late unless there is an excused absence. 

Can I work during Study Hall and before or after school?
I am at school till at least 3:30pm everyday.  You are always welcome to come in after school and work on any artwork.  To come during a free period or study hall, you must get a pass before coming to work. 
*Note: I am at Elgin HS in the morning, so you must talk to another art teacher to get permission to work before school*

How will I be graded?
Your grade consists of small exercises and worksheets, large projects, work ethic and participation, which will be awarded after each unit.  Your grade will be based on execution of art techniques and skills, craftsmanship, productivity, and creativity.

     Large Projects will be the majority of your grade and will be graded as seen below:

90 and above – A         exceeds requirements
80 and above – B         meets requirements
70 and above – C         meets requirements minimally
60 and above – D         attempt made, but requirements not met
59 and below – F         used little to no effort

What are Mrs. Vance’s Rules?

1. RESPECT your teachers, classmates, and the supplies
2. Keep all supplies in your art bin, do not keep them in your locker
3. Quiet talking is allowed if working productively
4. No Food or Drinks, ingesting clay is not good for your health!
5. No MP3 players – there will be music, don’t worry

*Remember:  Think before you act.  All actions have consequences!

So... How can I succeed in Mrs. Vance’s class?

• Enjoy the class! –if you do not, we can work together so you can!
• Turn in all your work on time, remember you get an extra week!
• Experiment – the best ideas come from trial and error
• Start keeping a sketchbook to record all of your ideas (especially if you plan on taking more art classes or make a career in art)
• Believe in yourself and your art!!