Section 3

Unit Title Animation Principles

Unit Code CVA101
Programme Foundation Degree (Arts) Computer Visualisation and Animation
Credits 20 Level 1 Unit Status Mandatory

Contact Time 40 Access to Resources 40 Independent Study 120

This unit introduces students to the basic principles of animation.

Through a series of exercises that explore the techniques used to
animate a basic sequence, the learner is introduced to the
fundamental concepts behind all animation.

The unit looks at the application of these principles in traditional 2D

animation format initially. This allows the learner to comprehend
notions such as squash and stretch, and timing in a tactile way.
Having examined and understood the application of the principles in
2D, learners will learn to translate these to 3D animation. Students
will learn to evaluate the differences between traditional and digital
techniques, and how the key animation principles may be applied to
Introduction
both mediums.

The unit will look at how animation principles may be applied to

show realistic and exaggerated (unrealistic) movement. The layering
of images to form staging using appropriate tools is introduced both
in 2D traditional and 3D digital animation.

Students are introduced to the operation and use of basic 2D and

3D animation tools in the practice, capture and execution of
animation exercises including the basic use of 3D software.
Learners will be introduced to the methods of archiving their
practical animation tests, ready to build a short movie.

Topics covered in this unit are likely to include:

• Squash-and-stretch;
• Timing;
Indicative
• Spacing;
Curriculum
• Anticipation;
Outline
• Slow in and out;
• Arcs;
• Exaggeration;
• Secondary action.

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 Section 3

In order to pass this Level 1 unit students must show that the
following learning outcomes have been achieved:

Knowledge and Understanding

1. Understand the basic principles of animation and how these

are translated to the digital workshop; (LO1)
2. Appreciate the importance of planning and structure in the
Unit Learning
presentation of an animation sequence. (LO2)
Outcomes
Skills

3. Utilise the basic principles of animation to produce basic 2D

animation sequences; (LO3)
4. Use 3D digital animation software to create basic short
animation sequences; (LO4)
5. Interpret and respond personally to an animation brief. (LO5)

This unit will make use of the following:

Teaching and • Lectures;

Learning • Project introduction;
Strategies • Workshops;
• Self directed learning through research and practice;
• Assessment and critique.

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 Section 3

Students are required to complete a series of basic animation

exercises in both 2D and 3D form.

Formative Assessment
Students will receive written feedback on the 2D exercises around
the mid point of the unit, giving them an indication of their
performance in relation to the learning outcomes before final unit
Assessable submission.
Elements
Summative Assessment
Students will submit the 3D exercises specified in the project brief at
the end of the unit and these will be assessed as a single body of
work. Each assessed element will contribute to the final grade, in the
proportions shown in the following table:

Assessable Elements Percentage of Final Grade

3D Exercises. 100%

Students are assessed on:

3D Exercises
• The level of understanding of animation principles
demonstrated in the animation exercises; (LO1, LO3)
Assessment
• Evidence of planning and structure in the presentation of the
Criteria
animation sequences; (LO2)
• Competency in the application of 3D digital animation
software in the realisation of the exercises; (LO4)
• The level of personal interpretation in the execution of the
animations. (LO5)

Williams, R. (2001) The Animators Survival Kit, Faber.

Halas, J. and Whittaker, H. (2002) Timing for Animation, Focal

Press.

Indicative Learning Maya 7 – Official Alias training guide

Reading List
"Getting started" DVD bundle.

www.awn.com (Animation World Network)

www.cartoonster.com

Faculty of Communication Media Definitive Document: 21 July 2006