Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

When creating animated content for production, it is important to develop a solid methodology that allows an animator to work quickly and creativley while maintaining an acceptable level of quality.Being able to take direction and creativly respond to a brief while finding the best way to communicate an idea to an audience is a core skill that takes time to develop. The core communication skills of illustration, motion, blocking and layout follow industry standards in pre-production, and are required for the generation and presentation of ideas, as well as the exploration of form and character.

Aims

This unit aims to provide you with an understanding of how to take an animated shot through the process of conceptual design, blocking and layout to final animated performance. The focus is on developing a strong methodology for communicating character and story through motion, gesture and expression of three-dimensional characters.

Objectives

On completion of this unit you should be able to:

1. Illustrate motion using concept sketches for later implementation in 3D software
2. Demonstrate the principles of animation and mechanics of motion applied to 3D Characters and objects
3. Visualise a concept through blocking and layout in response to a storyboard, story reel, or recorded dialogue
4. Plan a shot in response to recorded audio track
5. Communicate personality of a character through motion, gesture and expression
6. Actively participate in critique sessions for the purpose of critical reflection and iterative design

Content

Through the combination of theory, practice and crtical reflection, this unit addresses the creative process of constructing an animated shot by interpreting and responding to storyboards, story reels, recorded audio tracks, set layout and direction. Content is derived from both historical and contemporary industry practice aimed at developing students awarness of the intracies involved with communicating character through motion.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

This unit will utilise a studio teaching approach which combines theory and practice. Studios will be structured to combine presentations on pre-production principles and processes with industry examples of potential outcomes, as well as applied practical exercises. You will engage in critique sessions where you, your colleagues, and academic staff or visitors will discuss the development, iteration and resolution of animated outcomes.

Assessment

LATE ASSIGNMENTS
An assignment submitted after the due date without an approved extension will not be marked. If you are unable to complete your assignment on time, you should submit on time whatever work you have done.

Faculty Assessment Information
To access complete Creative Industries Faculty Assessment Information please refer to the Blackboard site for this unit.FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
You will receive formative feedback on your progress in this unit during tutorials and discussions throughout the semester. Weight 0%

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
You will be awarded a final grade on a 1 to 7 scale.

Assessment name: Laboratory/Practical
Description: A series of character animation exercises focussing on the mechanics of motion and animation layout.
Relates to objectives: 1,2
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Mid Semester

Assessment name: Laboratory/Practical
Description: Using the supplied audio file (containing dialogue) you are required to create a 'polished' animated shot making all decisions from concept through to final render.
Relates to objectives: 1 to 6
Weight: 60%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End of Semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

strong>Required Text

Hooks, E., (2011). Acting for animators. Taylor and Francis.

Williams, R. (2009). The animators survival kit. London: Faber and Faber.

Recommended References

Beiman, N., Johnston, L., (2010). Animated performance: bringing imaginary animal, human and fantasy characters to life. AVA Publishing.

Kerlow, I. (2009). The art of 3D computer animation and effects (fourth edition).New Jersey: Wiley.

Roberts, S., (2004). Character animation in 3D: use traditional drawing techniques to produce stunning CGI animation. Elsevier.

Thomas, F. and Johnston, O. (1981). The illusion of life. New York: Walt Disney Productions

Risk assessment statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 22-Oct-2012