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Elements and Principles of Design
 
Length - 50 minutes
Objectives
    Students will create abstract drawings utilizing elements and principles of design.
Materials
    11 X 17 copy paper
    crayons, markers
    construction paper
Anticipatory Set
    Outline the elements (line, shape, color, texture) and principles (balance, proportion, rhythm, unity, focus/emphasis) of design.
 Elements:
    LINE - any of the marks that make up the formal design of a picture.  Line can be sharp and
     jagged or curved and flowing.
    SHAPE - something distinguished from its surroundings by its outline.
    COLOR - the appearance of objects or light sources described in terms of the individual's perception of them.  For example, red (love, anger, passion); blue (sorrow, peace); yellow (happiness, vibrant); green (youth, life, growth); black (power, strength, death); purple (royal, rich)
    TEXTURE - the appearance and feel of a surface.  The most basic kinds of textures are rough
    or smooth.
    SPACE (SCALE) - how large or small a particular drawing or model is.
  Principles:
    BALANCE - in design, harmonious or satisfying arrangement of parts or elements.  Weighing
    down one side of the stage with too many set pieces creates an imbalance.
    PROPORTION - like balance, but related to the size difference between set pieces.
    RHYTHM - a regular or harmonious pattern.  Created by using balance and proportion.
    UNITY - ordering of all elements in a work of art so that each contributes to a unified aesthetic.
    FOCUS/EMPHASIS - where a designer want the audience to look.
Abstract Creations
    Use available materials to create drawings of abstract concepts using elements and principle of design.  Example concepts: depression, elation, youth, old age, life, death, love, loneliness, happiness, indifference, etc.  Students will do two drawings, identical except for the addition of color in the second drawing.  The first will be done in black and white and the second will have color added.
Discussion
    Students will be asked to present drawings and justify choices using elements and principles previously discussed.
    Offer feedback regarding effective design elements and encourage others to provide feedback as well.
                                                                           Designed by M.S.