Description: 
Create a poster that illustrates a current issue (planet earth) through image, text, and collage on 12" x18" white or colored paper.

Grade 5 Benchmark:

Students begin sequential unit projects; extend knowledge of art media and compositional and design elements; choose new ways of using familiar tools and materials, and deepen imaginative capacities, observational and expressive skills.

Performance Indicators:

Create a graphic design that demonstrates:
integration of text and image
vivid use of color, line, and shape
clarity of message
Students will be able to: 
Describe the components of a poster
Explain the purpose of a poster and how it differs from a painting
Brainstorm ideas
Explain how designers get their messages across
Use a word map to generate ideas
Explain the difference between a shape and a form
Create simple images for words
Create an illustrated dictionary
Define symbol, pictograph, composition, emphasis, negative space, font, collage, thumbnail sketch, contrast
Create a phrase that communicates an idea
Research specific issues relating to Planet Earth
Recognize the differences in lettering styles
Create three thumbnail sketches
Work in teams to analyze their work
Design a poster that communicates a message about a current issue, i.e. Planet Earth
Participate in a critique
Write a paragraph selecting one poster that successfully accomplishes its purpose and explain why you selected it
Students will understand that: 
Posters communicate messages through expressive qualities of composition, placement, and orientation of letters
Simple shapes can become symbols that are easy to recognize
Different styles of lettering communicate a wide variety of ideas
Emphasis is an important principle of design
Color is an important element in creating a specific mood or feeling.
Designers brainstorm ideas and experiment with sketches before selecting the final ones
Artists and designers often consult one another on their work
Vocabulary:
campaign, graphic designer, design brief, posters, symbol, pictograph, composition, color, shape, form, line, space, emphasis, balance, contrast
Students should be able to:
Design an appropriate symbol in the spirit of their message
Use collage to create an awareness poster integrating text and image, vivid use of color, line, shape, and clarity of message
Identify components of a successful poster
Discuss the work of several artists/designers using posters that convey messages to the public
Discuss criteria for successful awareness posters
Write a memorable slogan
Participate in peer-and self-assessment of sketches and posters, using accountable talk and new vocabulary
Research information on the issue, using the internet and books
Use sketchbooks to document progress, process, and self-assessment (word webs, illustrated dictionary, symbols, lettering, collage compositions)