Introduction to Desktop Publishing

Digital Media Department, Harper Woods High School

Course Syllabus
Course Title: ​Introduction to Desktop Publishing
Teacher:​ Tanika Rucker
Room:​ A201
Prep Period:​ 5th Period
Email: ​tanika.rucker@hwschools.org
Telephone: ​313-245-3000, ext. 53078

Course Description​: ​the production of printed matter by means of a printer linked to a

desktop computer, with special software. The system enables reports, advertising
matter, company magazines, etc., to be produced cheaply with a layout and print quality
similar to that of typeset books, for xerographic or other reproduction. In short, Desktop
Publishing is the creation of the print or digital materials we read each and every day.
The Multimedia Productions classroom is designed to function as a working production
environment. Therefore, students will learn the discipline of utilizing teams to produce
original works efficiently to meet deadlines.​ ​In addition, students will learn to think
critically while using digital tools to strategically use visuals tell an influential story.​ ​In
addition, this course will explain essential professional production principles through
examining successful commercial works in order to understand the power, responsibility,
and influence of Desktop Publishing.

Course Objectives:​ A core objective will be for students to develop and produce their
original creative concepts using media to influence audiences. Individual students will
successfully develop, manage, and produce professional Desktop Publishing works that
will be displayed publicly. Students will develop proficiency in use of vocabulary and a
variety of software including but not limited to: Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator,
Adobe PhotoShop, Canva.com, Pixlar.com, and Pages.

Recommended Materials​:
● Pen/Pencil

Project Based Learning:​ This course follows the Project Based Learning model, which
is composed of instruction time and project time. Students will focus on acquiring skills
through hands on applications during real world situations. Due to the nature of
project-based learning, time spent on each topic and projects will change regularly
depending on student and class proficiency levels, and the nature and scope of the various
types of media production projects taking place on an ongoing basis.

Grading Procedure: ​ Below is the grading scale used for this class. Assignments will
fall into one of six categories; Do Now, Exit Ticket, Discussions, Class Assignments,
Projects, Quizzes/Tests. Each assignment will have a designated point value attached to it

Desktop Publishing 3rd Hour Janurary 2018

with the final student grade being a direct reflection/percentage of the total possible
points and % based on catagory.

A 100% - 93% C 76% - 73%

A- 92% - 90% C- 72% - 70%
B+ 89% - 87% D+ 69% - 67%
B 86% - 83% D 66% - 63%
B- 82% - 80% D- 62% - 60%
C+ 79% - 77% E 59% and below

Final semester grades will be based on the following:

Do Now 10%
Exit Tickets 5%
Discussions 10%
Quizes/Final 15%
Assignments 20%
Projects 40%

Attendance: ​Regular punctual attendance is vital to the success of any student. This
class adheres to the official attendance policy of Harper Woods Schools. Daily ​Do Now
& Exit​ assignments ​cannot be made up​ when a student is present, a grade of 0 will be
given for these assignments when not completed in time instructed. Absent student,
however, will be excused from ​Do Now & Exit​ assignments ONLY. All other
assignments can be made up during an absence. It is the student's responsibility to get and
complete ​all​ missing assignments.

Sub Work:​ Is not an option! Sub work can only be completed on the day it is assigned.

Classroom Expectations: ​We expect each student to demonstrate a positive attitude and
positive behavior. Students must adhere to the Harper Woods School’s Code of Conduct.
Refusal to comply will result in disciplinary actions. Expectations include the following:

1. Always respect your fellow students, teachers, administrators, and guests.

2. Respect the lab equipment and classroom environment.
3. Come to class every day prepared with writing utensil and ​in dress code.
4. Stay focused on the task and complete assignments on time
5. Students are responsible for seeking make-up work and turning it in during the
allotted time ​(1 week after absence)​. Any work accepted after this time will
recieve ½ credit.
6. Collaborate, ask questions, teach others and learn.
7. During appropriate listening times, ALL SOUND must remain in headphones.

Desktop Publishing 3rd Hour Janurary 2018

 PARENTS/GUARDIANS

PLEASE NOTE: You are welcome to call the teacher during school hours at ​(313)
245-3000, extension 53078 ​or visit the school to check on your child’s progress.
(Please check in at the main office to announce upon your arrival before visiting the
classroom.) We are happy to have your child in our school and encourage you to be
an active Harper Woods High School parent. We look forward to working with you
to provide a quality education for your child!

Return Agreement Below (100pts)

AGREEMENT

Directions:​ After reading and discussing the course syllabus, please sign and date
this agreement page (Students and Parent/Guardian). The student will ​return this
page only​ to me. The syllabus should be kept at home and referred to as needed.

STUDENT

I have read and understand the course syllabus and agree to abide by the policies,
rules and regulations therein.

__________________________________ ______________
Print Student Name Date

__________________________________ ______________
Student’s Signature Date

PARENT/GUARDIAN

I have read and understand the course syllabus, discussed it with my child, and agree
to assist him/her to abide by the rules and regulations therein.

__________________________________ ______________
Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date

_____________________________________________ ___________________
Email Phone Number

Desktop Publishing 3rd Hour Janurary 2018