Overview

In this unit, students will gain a better understanding of the basics of graphic design by studying the elements and principles that govern effective design and page layout. Graphic design is the process and art of combining text and graphics, while conveying an effective message in the design of visual communication. Visual communication includes things like logos, graphics, brochures, newsletters, posters, signs, and elements of webpages.

Designers achieve their goals by utilizing the elements and principles of graphic design. By following these concepts, those with no formal graphic design training can improve their page layout and text compositions. Recognizing whether or not graphic design has been successful, and understanding its foundational principles, is important for entrepreneurs, who must oversee and sometimes help to produce a variety of visual communication elements for their businesses.

Big Idea

• Effective graphic design, based on universal principles of visual communication, is essential in helping a business to communicate with its audience of both customers and prospective customers.

Essential Questions

• What is graphic design?
• What makes a design effective at visual communication?
• What examples of graphic design do we encounter in our daily lives?
• Why is effective graphic design important for a business?

Concepts 

• Defining graphic design
• Defining and identifying visual communication, including examples of its use in daily life
• Identifying and understanding the elements of design, including line, shapes, mass, texture, and color
• Methods of visual communication employed by businesses to gain brand recognition and sales from a desired audience