 Visual Presentation 1 Syllabus
VP1 Art 148
– Visual Presentation 1
Instructor: Philip Matzigkeit
Office: 302 next to printer
Cell: 619 709 3148
Email: pmatzigk@mail.sdsu.edu or philipmatzigkeit@yahoo.com
Class Content:
Just as in learning music, where it is necessary to first learn the scales and how to play your instrument
before you can make real music, emphasis in this first drafting class, is not so much about creativity as it is
about the discipline. Art 148 stresses basic drafting practice to consistently achieve effective and accurate
architectural communications. Traditionally, drafting is drawing with the aid of straight edges, triangles,
templates, compasses and scales. This remains relevant in an increasingly technical world. Drawing a line
with a pen or pencil incorporates a kinesthetic sense of direction and length, and is a tactile act that feeds
back into the mind in a way that reinforces the structure of the resulting graphic image. Art 148 is also the
introductory class for AutoCAD which for many years now, has been the primary digital drafting program
in use in the USA.
Curriculum:
Lettering, Lines and Line quality
Floor Plans, Elevations,
Paraline Drawings, (Isometric and Axonometric)
Introduction to AutoCAD in 2 dimensions
Introduction to Perspective Drawing
Introduction to Perspective in AutoCAD
Optional Text: Ching, Francis D.K. Architectural Graphics. 3d,4th or 5th edition John Wiley and
Sons, Inc. New York ISBN 0-471-20906-6
Project Deadline Policy:
Submit projects on time for the full grade. If unable to complete by the deadline turn in what you have on
time and you will have one week to finish. Each student will be allowed 2 late drawings for the semester
after which the grade will drop by one letter grade per week. Work that does not meet with acceptable
standards will be returned "NO CREDIT" and must be repeated before a grade is awarded. You will have
the opportunity to improve your projects after they are graded and returned for a maximum of one letter
grade.
In the event of illness or emergency I must receive an email from you by the time class begins otherwise
late work will receive no credit.
Grading Policy:
"Will Work For Grades"
Projects are graded on a scale of 1–10 where 10 = A 9 = A- 8 = B 7 = C
6=D
Grade awarded are based on: Overall Presentation including Neatness, Cleanliness, Accuracy, Line
Quality, Correct Line Hierarchy, Lettering Skill.
Points deducted for: Messy presentation, torn papers, smudges, inaccuracies, poor lettering, poor line
quality, lack of line hierarchy.
Student Learning Outcome:
Demonstrate an understanding of clear and effective drafting using good line weights, line quality, and
superb accuracy.
Communicate intentions successfully through various 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional drawings both by
hand and with digital technology.
Be curious, inquisitive, and unafraid to ask questions. There are no "dumb" questions.
"Repetition is the mother of excellence."
Title Block:
All assignments must convey the following information in a title block:
Assignment number in the 1.5" x 1.5" box.
Name of Drawing on the first line.
Your first and last name on the second line.
Visual Presentation or Art 148. SDSU and date including year on the third line.
Project Binder:
On Final Exam day submit all projects stapled together neatly on the left side.
Final:
A Drawing in AutoCAD or hand drawn within a time limit.

Visual Presentation 1 DRAFTING EQUIPMENT
Note:
We have been instructed to post all communications online this semester. Photocopies have been severely
limited. SO you don't get all the pretty pictures I pasted in anymore.
After I do the show and tell you will understand your shopping list. The supplies you will need for the
second class are typed
IN BOLD COLOR.
1. Drafting Tables are provided but I will describe your options for obtaining your own at home if you
wish.
2. T-Square or Parallel Bar
3. Adjustable Triangle and/or 45/45/90 triangle, 30/60/90
triangle in different sizes
4. Fixture Template 1/4" scale
5. Compass (The kind you use for drafting. The other kind might be helpful to find your way from the
trolley station or a parking place.)
6. Circle Template (Optional)
7. French Curves (Optional but I want you know what they are.)
8. Drafting Tape
9. Lead Holders, Mechanical Pencils, Wooden Pencils
10. Pencil Leads and Lead Pointer
11. Plastic Eraser
12. Papers: One pad of 24" x 18" and one pad 8.5" x 11"
Drafting Vellum.
Be very careful in choosing the brand as tough mylar does
not work well with pencil.
Roll of "Flimsy" (Optional)
13. Drafting Brush
14. Architectural Scale (Be certain that it says "Architect" and NOT "Engineer."
want 1/2" 1/4" 3/8" 3/16" etc NOT 20,50,100 etc.)
15. Erasing Shield
You
16. Ames Lettering Guide
17. Portfolio or Tube in which to carry your drawings and paper.
18. Toolbox, tackle box or suitcase for your supplies.