Unit 1 - Photoshop Basics:  Graphic Design (TastyTuts)

ARE YOU READY TO LEARN PHOTOSHOP!!!  By the end of this intro unit you will know the basic inner workings of Photoshop from its tools to its options to its pallets.  You will also discover different file types, their functions and the difference between raster and vector files.  

Through formative assignments you will explore design scenarios and produce cover artwork for a children’s book.  

Click on the link button, "Basics: Graphic Design Book Cover", below to access the website, overviews and tutorials:
Formative Assignments (from TastyTuts page):
All formative assignments will be uploaded / posted to Schoology.  You will submit your work as jpeg copy files to Schoology when turning in your work, unless otherwise noted.  
  1. Overview Video (Vid #1)
  2. Download Project Folder (pg 5)
  3. Section 1 - Introduction
    1. Episode 1: Interface Introduction
    2. Episode 2: Panels & Workspaces
    3. Episode 3: Raster Image Principles
    4. Episode 4: Image Size, Dimension & Resolution
    5. Episode 5: Layers
    6. Episode 6: Common File Types
    7. Episode 7: Color
    8. Episode 8: Ten Handy Tips for Beginners
  4. Section 2 - Essential Practice
    1. Episode 9: Making Selections
    2. Episode 10: Copy & Paste
    3. Episode 11: Transform Tools
    4. Episode 12: Using Brushes
    5. Episode 13: Eraser Tool & Layer Masking
    6. Episode 14: Shape Tool
    7. Episode 15: Type Principles
    8. Episode 16: Layer Styles
    9. Episode 17: Paths & The Pen Tool
    10. Episode 18: Smart Objects
    11. Episode 19: Color Adjustments
    12. Episode 20: Adjustment Layers
    13. Episode 21: Filters
    14. Episode 22: Blending Modes
    15. Episode 23: Saving
  5. Section 3 - Creating a Project
    1. Episode 24: Setting Up a Document
    2. Episode 25: 3D Paper Type Effect
    3. Episode 26: Rainbow & Clouds Illustration
    4. Episode 27: Manage Complexity & Working Smart
    5. Episode 28: Decorating an Origami Paper Bird
    6. Episode 29: Creating an Origami Bird Logo
    7. Episode 30: Adding Type to the Design
    8. Episode 31: Save for Print in Adobe Photoshop
    9. Episode 32: Adapt a Print Design for a Web Banner
    10. Episode 33: Save for Web in Adobe Photoshop

Summative Project

Option 1 - Original Book Cover Graphic Design
Choose a topic you are passionate about.  Do not use copyrighted ideas; ie. pop culture characters, video games, tv shows, movies, etc. Acceptable ideas could include a social issue, a personal story, a historical event, etc.  Create a book cover that illustrates your chosen theme.  Apply what you've learned about design, layout, and organization from the previous lessons to this summative project.  Your work should be original and no images from the internet will be allowed.  
Option 2 - Appropriated Book Cover Graphic Design
Appropriation means, in the artworld, to take (something) for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission and putting a new contemporary spin on it.  Take a preexisting story, book, novel, or topic that you enjoy and create a new, original, unique, book cover design.
Option 3 - "Art Prompts" Book Cover Graphic Design
Click on the following link button below:
Try to go with the first response given; however, if it doesn't float your boat, click the "refresh" button and choose a theme to suit your fancy.