Digital Photography 1-2

Leland High School Room: J-3 and J-10

Instructor: Ms. Cydney DeBenedetto Phone: (408) 535-6290 x62341
E-mail: cdebenedetto@sjusd.org Tutorial: Wed/Thu/Fri (closed Tue)
Website: cydneyd.weebly.com
Text: Various Resource Materials

Description
In this yearlong course, students cover the basic theories and skills of digital photography. Photographic history is
covered and the introductions of technology within the photographic field is presented. Students learn how to use the
digital camera, develop an eye for good composition and work with Adobe Photoshop software to produce a
photographic portfolio. Students also have the opportunity to work on outside projects in coordination with the district
and the community. Students will explore artistic theory and design in order to create high quality digital art.

Course Objectives
Students will be able to:
Use art vocabulary to discuss and write about digital art and photography
Apply elements and principles of design to create digital art
Improve upon current skills in photography and design
Demonstrate applicable skills to create different works of art in a variety of media
Study the history of art and its influence on todays creations
Practice time management to meet deadlines and create quality work
Demonstrate an understanding of art theory and criticism
Identify various career opportunities in digital art and photography

Materials
To be brought to class each period:
Memory card (if utilizing school equipment) and a Flash drive to transfer work between computers
o card readers are available in class
Digital Camera with accompanying manual (advanced students: DSLR recommended but not required)
Camera or smartphone cord to transfer images to computer (if using for assignments)
Folder/Binder to store handouts/pencils/erasers/pencil pouch for materials
Notebook, composition book or sketchbook (required)
Interesting props and/or equipment for artwork

Course Expectations, Rules and Procedures

PRACTICE GOOD CITIZENSHIP!!!!
Listen to instructions, ask for clarification when needed
Bring supplies EVERY day
Be respectful and courteous toward others, the classroom and school property
Be responsible: arrive to class on time, turn work in on time, if absent - get make up work, keep assignment
handouts in binder, take unfinished work home or set up a time that you can work in studio, remember to
bring projects back to class on the next working day if you take them home.
Be original and creative
Computer is for classwork only. You will lose privileges and grades if you are found downloading, hacking,
chatting, game playing, or otherwise using the computer for inappropriate personal usage.
Students are expected to consistently improve upon their personal levels of achievement

Working outside the classroom: As a photo student, you may find yourself working outside of class. It is essential
(and mandatory) that you conduct yourself professionally at all times. DO NOT DISRUPT ANY CLASSES. Display
your Photo ID at all times. DO NOT PHOTOGRAPH ANYONE WITHOUT THEIR CONSENT. Anything else violates
this contractual agreement and you will lose the privilege of participating, and ultimately jeopardize your grade in this
class. If this happens, you must complete the work on your own time.

Pass/Restroom Policy: Restroom passes should be no longer than 5 minutes. You will not need your cell
phone for this event. Passes will not be written during the first or last 10 minutes of class. Students will make request
and sign out in log book. Abuse of this privilege will result in lose of privilege and disciplinary actions will be taken if
appropriate. Only one student will be excused at any one time.
Cell Phone Policy: Smart Phones are a useful tool in art and photography. Therefore they are allowed to be
utilized for the purposes of this class only. However, it is a privilege to use them in the academic setting. The use of
the device for games, chat and text, and the like is not allowed. An initial warning will be given for mishandling the
device -- after that, it will be confiscated. First time, until the end of the period. Second or more, submitted to the office
for administrative and/or parent release.

Discipline Procedures: It is expected that students will follow rules and procedures, however, sometimes
violations will occur. The response to intervention will be as follows:
st
1 offense: warning and individual consultation
nd
2 offense: as above, parent contact, possible in-class detention
3rd offense: contact with parent, Assistant Principal of Discipline, possible school referral, reduction in
citizenship grade, loss of privileges

Homework
Research any artists, images, resource information that can inform and support your work
Review of project materials/notes and vocabulary
Completion of any class work that was not finished at school to meet grading deadlines
Practice, practice, practice!!

Grading Policy
Artwork will be graded on the successful completion according to a predetermined rubric. In general, most rubrics will
be based upon following: assignment instructions, practice of techniques and skills of the project,
originality/creativity, composition, craftsmanship, effort and participation, and timeliness of submission. The
General Guide for Visual Art Rubric is available upon request and details how artwork is assessed and graded. Art
process often entails research and experimentation, and can require additional attempts at success. While projects
and assignments are expected on the due date, please be sure to let the teacher know of extenuating circumstances
and the need of additional time. If a second attempt is made on the project, the highest grade will be entered in the
grade book.

Independent assignments from books, handouts, practice sheets, video notes, quizzes, etc., are expected on the due
date. In addition, participating in school productions (pullouts, etc) does not excuse you from assigned deadlines
plan accordingly.

Assessment of this class will cover four categories: products, process & knowledge, and participation.
Products (40% of overall grade)
Products are what you create in projects and final artworks
Process & Knowledge (50% of overall grade)
Process is how you conduct research, practice skill-building exercises, develop your ideas and skills
through sketchbook practice. Knowledge is what you know. You will demonstrate what you know and
have learned through the products you create, your journal entries, quizzes and tests.
Participation (10% of overall grade)
Participation covers taking part in all aspects of class. This includes, but is not limited to, completing
assignments and homework, contributing to class discussions, class cleanup and handling of materials,
and providing your peers with critique.
Grades: A = 100 90, B = 89 80, C = 79 70, D = 69 - 60, F = 59 and below

Policy for Resubmitted and Late work

If you miss class, it is your responsibility to find out what you have missed and make arrangements to make up the
missed work. If a completed assignment does not meet a proficient level, the student is given the opportunity to fix or
redo the assignment. Revised work is due one week following the return of the graded project to the student. If there
is significant evidence of work and improvement, the grade will be positively adjusted. Late work will be accepted, but
the grade is reduced by one grade (or equivalent points) every two days it is late. It is wise to stay on task and
complete the work within a reasonable amount of time. Incomplete work will be graded at a maximum of 50%. If you
know time management is a problem for you, come talk to me, and I'll help you out. Many people get let down by their
time management don't let yourself be one of them!
Loaned materials: During the course of the year materials may be loaned out on an as needed basis. In
signing this contract, students agree to accept full responsibility for all materials loaned them. This includes ALL
equipment used in the lab. Students will be billed for any lost or damaged materials (this includes all class materials-
camera and computer equipment, scissors, rulers, etc.). A replacement cost list will be available online.

Cheating/Stealing/Vandalism: Students found cheating, copying or stealing others work will receive an
automatic F for that particular assignment or quiz. Artistic plagiarism is an offense that holds serious consequences.
Strive for your individual voice, originality and creativity. Vandalism of any type will not be tolerated and disciplinary
measures will result if students are found abusing school, student or staff property. Referrals will be made
immediately to the Assistant Principal of Discipline and parents will be contacted. Respect yourself, others and
your environment.

California State Standards for Visual Arts

All instructional units will be based upon and contain the following standards:
1.0 ARTISTIC PERCEPTION
Processing, Analyzing, and Responding to Sensory Information Through the Language and Skills Unique to
the Visual Arts
2.0 CREATIVE EXPRESSION
Creating, Performing, and Participating in the Visual Arts Students apply artistic processes and skills, using a
variety of media to communicate meaning and intent in original works of art.
3.0 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT
Understanding the Historical Contributions and Cultural Dimensions of the Visual Arts
4.0 AESTHETIC VALUING
Responding to, Analyzing, and Making Judgments About Works in the Visual Arts
5.0 CONNECTIONS, RELATIONSHIPS, APPLICATIONS
Connecting and Applying What Is Learned in the Visual Arts to Other Art Forms and Subject Areas and to
Careers

SJUSDs 21st Century Skills: This course is designed to promote SJUSDs commitment to the 5 Cs:
1. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills
2. Creative Thinking Skills
3. Communication Skills
4. Collaboration Skills
5. Citizenship (Global)

Mature Content: Although not frequently presented, students may be exposed to mature content in the photos
and films that we will share, analyze, and discuss for their educational relevance. Students are expected to behave in
an appropriately mature manner when reviewing this material. The following is a list of the proposed mature photos
and/or movies (rated R by the MPAA), their potentially sensitive material, and our motive for including them in our
curriculum.

We have a well-stocked library of photo books, historical and contemporary that contain artistic nudes. Students will
be able to browse through this library collection. In signing the attached contract, students and their parents give
permission to participate in a mature review of content. Parents objections to specific content will be respected and
the student will be given an alternative assignment. Please note any specific objections on the signature portion of the
contract.

Material Motive Sensitive Content

Various Photos Historical significance Artistic Nudity

Death in War/Conflict
Flags of Our Fathers Tells story of Flag Raising at Iwo Jima War/Violence
(and/or Heroes of Iwo Jima)
Born Into Brothels Tells story of how learning photography Drug use/Brief Infant Nudity/Domestic
transformed the lives of children in India Violence/Language
Digital Photo Contract
Notice: I have read all the above information regarding Digital Photo and I agree to abide by all rules, regulations,
policies and standards set forth by the instructor in this document. I have read the information regarding the mature
content that my student may receive in this program and I give my consent for his/her participation in those lessons
(with the below listed exemptions).

_____________________________________________ ___________________________________________
Movie/Photos for exemption Reason for exemption

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ ______________

Students name Students signature Date

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ ______________

Parents name Parents signature Date

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Parents preferred method of contact (include number and/or address if different from Infinite Campus)

Please detach this portion and return to Ms. DeBenedetto in Room J1 by Friday, August
25, 2017. Thank you!

Also, would you be willing to chaperone in the case that we can get off campus for a
field trip? Yes __________ No _______

The world of Art and Photography can open up the creativity that exists within everyone. Those
students who work hard will have a rewarding experience that will remain with them for many
years to come. I am looking forward to working with each one of you to help you achieve your
vision and goals for this class. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please do not
hesitate to contact me. Thank you!

Lets have a GREAT YEAR!! GO CHARGERS!!!!