3D Modeling and Animation 1

Syllabus This course articultes with Mount Hood Community College corse #135GMA 3D

Course Description:
Students will learn how interpret visual information to create 3D-models and animation
using 3D software. Students will learn various methods of communicating ideas visually
and creatively.
Students will learn to use tools to create and alter basic geometry that represents an object
or character or idea. Topics covered include: basic interface navigation and ability to
create models based on polygons, point and edges. Ability to model and animate using
visual information 3D tools and specialized techniques to create new ideas. Ability to
create and render an animation using time line, key frames, lighting, and camera angles.
Ability to communicate an idea visually, follow directions, think critically and
demonstrate basic business (employment) expectations.
The first projects will require the application of procedural textures and moving the
object to layout where the lighting and camera angle can be set. These projects establish
competency using basic geometric shapes to model, surface, move and manipulate using
3D tools. Animation of this model teaches key-frames, graph editor, camera techniques,
surface editor and timing.
The second and third projects will challenge the student to develop, design and build
ocean characters and objects with textures, and moving parts. The final project will depict
an animated story in an ocean environment. Students will learn to set complex keyframes, set pivot points, rotations and camera angles to animate the short scene.
The fourth project will teach students how to build and surface mechanical objects to
make a space vehicle.
Students will have an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge by creating a model or
animation of their own design. Students may also have an opportunity to select one of
their models to print on the 3D printer.
Criteria for grading is based on originality, quality of finished projects, creativity and
design concepts, professionalism, craftsmanship, attitude, effort, work ethic in class,
attendance, development and improvement of skills, and involvement with 3D
presentations.
Students may re-work any project for a better grade. Re-worked projects must be turned
in by the last day of class.

The student will be asked to turn in his/her sketchbook and idea development with each
project.
1.

Technical
a.

Technique (skill with materials)

b.

Problem requirements satisfied

c.

Overall level of craftsmanship

2.

Conceptual

25 points

a.

Comprehension (did you understand the idea of the project?)

b.

Communication (does your project show the idea of assignment?)

c.

Intention (does your project reflect your intentions?)

d.

Invention, Originality, Deep Thinking, problem solving

3.

4.

30 points

Aesthetic

20 points

a.

Composition (organization of formal elements)

b.

Character (individual personality, style, quality)

c.

Expression (non-verbal power, effective communication)

d.

Gestalt (unity, impact, is the effect greater than the sum of the parts?)
Participation/Attendance

15 points

5.

Sketchbook

10 points

Grading Structure
A-

An A project is excellent! The project not only meets the stated criteria of the
assignment, but also reflects a high degree of determination, thoughtfulness,
resourcefulness, and hard work. The craftsmanship is impeccable, and the
concept is clear and well executed. An A student has made full use of class
time.

B-

A B project is very well done. It meets the stated criteria and demonstrates an
understanding of the concepts and techniques involved, and shows careful
attention to detail. Craftsmanship is of a high quality. Idea is well executed, but
needs refining, and the student could have managed time more wisely.

C- A C project is satisfactory. This project meets stated criteria but does not
demonstrate ambition. This idea has been executed poorly or awkwardly. A C
project needs much more refining. Poor time management is also a factor.
D- A D project shows a lack of commitment, ambition, and understanding of stated
criteria. It attempts to fulfill the assignment, but does not demonstrate an
understanding of concepts and techniques involved. A D grade is assigned to a
project that only considers the minimum requirements for the assignment.
F- An F project is unacceptable. This project has made no effort to address the
stated criteria or assignment objectives. The idea has not been well thought out,
craftsmanship is sloppy, and a lack of care is evident. No work turned in .
Attendance

Attendance and punctuality are mandatory and critical to academic success. Most class
periods will include vital information such as demonstrations, lectures, and project

discussions. Consequently, being absent or late will put you at a serious disadvantage in
the class. Your individual contribution to the class is absolutely necessary and active
participation in class discussions is expected. Three or more unexcused tardies will result
in a lowering of your final grade.

Please make every effort to attend class and to be

there on time.
Schedule of Work;
Week 1-History of animation. Box design project:
Bird house or jack in the box project. Using
modification tools on basic shapes.

Week 10 Continue to make adjustments in

animation. Prepare for render. scene editor

Week 2- Learning more modification and building

tools. Pivot points, key frames. Applying color to
images, animating and rendering project

Week -11: Finish and render animation. Critique,

share assess.

Week 3-Animating the box project. Setting a

background. Rendering

Week 12: Mechanical Project: Research, design,

build Space ship model

Week 4- applying procedural textures. Modification

tools. Graph editor.

Week 13: New building tools, boolean, stencil,

lathe, sub-D, radial tool.

Week 5 Underwater assignment. Building rocks,

coral, fish, sand and water.

Week 14: finish spaceship project. Assess & present

to audience.

Week 6- - Modeling the octopus, shells, grass,

treasure chest. Surfacing and texturing.

Week 15. Final self-directed special project.

Portfolio development.

Week 7- Continue modeling and texturing

characters and objects. Create endomorphs. Moving
textures.

Week 16- Final self-directed special project. 3D

print object. Portfolio completion. Week 17: Final
self-directed special project. Portfolio development.

Week 8 -.Adjust endomorphs and animate them in

layout. Demonstrate ability to use modeling tools
and animation techniques. Intro to lighting and
envelope programming.

17: Special Effects, hypervoxels, emitters. More

procedural textures

Week 9 - Begin animating objects the underwater

scene to tell story. Attention to lighting and camera
angles. Graph editor.

18: Finals- Presentation of best project. Career

search. Portfolio development.