BMAVX260B – Stop Motion Animation

Module code

BMAVX260B

Module title

Stop Motion Animation

Prescription

This course introduces styles of stop motion animation within a workshop environment. Historical aspects and key practioners are considered in context. In depth consideration of motivation, style, originality and appropriateness of formal and structural elements are considered. Students have the opportunity to create both 2D and 3D stop motion animations.

NZQA Level

Level 6

NZQA Credits

Delivery method

Not Web enabled

Learning hours

Total learning hours: 150

Resources required

Learning Outcomes: 2.1 Understand a design process which advances the systematic and reflective development, refinement and resolution of a design situation
- identify the situations and issues set in the course brief
- complete self-directed research and reflect upon design processes
- demonstrate the systematic resolution of a process through the generation, regeneration, manipulation and refinement of ideas
- discuss with peers and tutors the design process adopted
- show evidence of independent and interdependent processes for working
- initiate and participate in class discussion.

2.2 Understand basic animation concepts and technology
- discuss the historical, social and technical developments within stop motion animation
- consider the impact of technology on animation style

2.3 Produce animated sequences which embody conceptual and technical considerations
- apply knowledge of animation techniques to a range of briefs
- demonstrate practical and logistical ability
- locate and discuss the implications of work as 'cultural or aesthetic approximations'.

2.4 Understand relevant aspects of the discourses and practices in contemporary animation
- produce written and oral analyses of selected texts, identifying relevant issues
- review and write descriptions and analyses of selected texts
- reflect critically upon relationships between representative texts, examples of work and self practice
- produce oral and written interpretations of and comparisons between selected works
- develop and test rationales for self practice
- conduct conventional presentations of outcomes

2.5 Comprehend summative assessment
- employ a vocabulary for describing work
- demonstrate the ability to write objectives and assessment criteria
- actively participate in group and class critiques
- consider and reflect upon self and peer design processes and decisions
- initiate on-going formative assessment
- consider, discuss and document self and peer performances for summative assessment.
Content: 3.1 Animation Techniques
- 2 Dimensioonal approaches to stop motion animation
- 3 Dimensional approaches to stop motion animation
- Armatures and character building
- Sets and lighting.
- Historical context and viewing of key animators work

3.2 Themes & Scripting
- Initiating ideas, and developing those ideas to their potential within the parameters of the project.
- Developing the idea to its best potential before shooting.

3.3 Design and Images
- Appropriate use of framing and lighting.
- Storyboarding and frame counting. Timing
- Consideration of art direction, colour, lighting, framing, etc, and achievement of a visual style harmonious with the project's intent.
- Appropriate and imaginative coverage/mise-en-scene, good pacing.

3.4 Production & Post Production
- Making the best visual, story-telling and imaginative use of the material shot.
- Use of sound and music to add further layers to the project.
- Appropriate selection and use of animation technqiue.
- How to structure both ideas and material.

3.5 Contextual Research
- Contextual research into contemporary stop motion animation values and constructs
- Case studies with selected readings and viewing media
- Research strategies and reports
Learning and Teaching Resource: Tutor supports students developing autonomy in working processes and methods
students initiate researching
students participate in summative assessment
tutor directs student research presentations
tutor / student discussions oriented toward process - potential paths and developments.
Assessment Criteria: Pixillation exercise 20 percent
Animation Techniques exercise 30 percent
Group Animation Project 50 percent

To pass this course students must pass all assignments and accumulate
an overall course mark of no less than 50 percent