PLEASANT VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
PLANNED COURSE CURRICULUM GUIDE
DIGITAL PHOTOGRPAHY
GRADE 9-12
I.
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND INTENT:
The goal of the Digital Photography Curriculum is to teach the students the basics of
digital photography and non-destructive image manipulation. The students will cover
units on the history of photography, composition, digital camera, and Adobe
Photoshop editing
II.
INSTRUCTIONAL TIME:
Class Periods: Six (6) per six (6) day cycle
Length of Class Periods (minutes): 54
Length of Course: One (1) Quarter
Unit of Credit: .25
(New format - 1-2012 Updated June 2014
COURSE: Digital Photography
STRAND: 9.1.12, 9.2.12, 9.3.12, 9.4.12
GRADE(S): 9-12
TIME FRAME: One Quarter
PA ACADEMIC STANDARDS
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9.1.12.A.B.C. F. G. H. - Production, Performance and Exhibition of Visual Arts
9.2.12.A.B.G.H. - Historical and Cultural Contexts
9.3.12.A.B.D. - Critical Response
9.4.12.A.B. - Aesthetic Response
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
ASSESSMENT ANCHORS
Teacher designed projects
Test and quizzes
Portfolio
Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
RESOURCES
Video: “Digital Photography”
Digital camera with memory cards
SLR
Computers
Software:
Adobe Photoshop
Magazine Subscriptions:
Inside Photoshop
Websites, On-line tutorials: (Photoshopuser.com) By National Association of Photoshop
Professionals.
Art supplies:
inkjet printer, ink, various types of paper for printing.
Books: Adobe Photoshop CS one-on-one by Deke McClelland, Real World Digital Photography
by Deke McClelland and Katrin Eismann, The Digital Photography Handbook by Tim Daly, The
Photographer’s Manual by John Freeman , How To Use Adobe Photoshop CS by Daniel Giordan,
Adobe Photoshop CS2 User Guide, Creative Digital Photography by Michael Busselle, Digital
Art Studio by Karin Schminke, Dorothy Simpson Krause, and Bonny Pierce Lhotka, Photo Art &
Craft by Carolyn Vosburg Hall. History of Photography Workbook
OBJECTIVES
The learner will be introduced to the digital photography workflow of image capturing,
editing/manipulation and final output requirements.
ESSENTIAL CONTENT
Formulate an understanding of the elements that were necessary for the camera to
become a functional object.
 List several historical developments, which led to the present technological state
of digital photography.
 Cite several examples of the sociological and technical impact photography has
made upon the world.
 Evaluate the various functions of the Digital Camera.
Determine differences between print and internet requirements.
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INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
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Have students read the history of Digital photography section and answer the
questions on the worksheet.
Discuss the purpose of photographs and the historical impact they have.
Show video on “Digital Photography” and have students answer questions.
Discuss pros and cons of digital and film cameras.
ASSESSMENTS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
CORRECTIVES/EXTENSIONS
Correctives:
Video on the history of Photography.
Extensions:
Complete a one page paper on the history of Photography.
COURSE Digital Photography
STRAND: 9.1.12, 9.2.12,
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




GRADE(S): 9-12
TIME FRAME: One Quarter
PA ACADEMIC STANDARDS
9.1.12.A.B.C.D. E. F. G. H. - Production, Performance and Exhibition of Visual
Arts
9.2.12.A.B.C.D.E.F.G.H. - Historical and Cultural Contexts
ASSESSMENT ANCHORS
Teacher designed projects
Test and quizzes
Portfolio
Classroom Participation
1. Research assignment presentation
RESOURCES
Video: “Digital Photography”
Digital camera with memory cards
SLR
Computers
Software:
Adobe Photoshop
Magazine Subscriptions:
Inside Photoshop
Websites, On-line tutorials: (Photoshopuser.com) By National Association of Photoshop
Professionals.
Art supplies:
inkjet printer, ink, various types of paper for printing.
Books: Adobe Photoshop CS one-on-one by Deke McClelland, Real World Digital Photography
by Deke McClelland and Katrin Eismann, The Digital Photography Handbook by Tim Daly, The
Photographer’s Manual by John Freeman , How To Use Adobe Photoshop CS by Daniel Giordan,
Adobe Photoshop CS2 User Guide, Creative Digital Photography by Michael Busselle, Digital
Art Studio by Karin Schminke, Dorothy Simpson Krause, and Bonny Pierce Lhotka, Photo Art &
Craft by Carolyn Vosburg Hall. History of Photography Workbook
OBJECTIVES
The learner will demonstrate knowledge of the digital camera, its manual functions, and how to take a
better picture. The learner will demonstrate knowledge of the non-destructive method of image
editing and self expression in PhotoShop.
ESSENTIAL CONTENT
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Explain mode dial, auto focus, white balance, and flash settings
Recite the parts of the digital camera.
Demonstrate how to use and format the digital camera.
Demonstrate how to use the digital camera, including depth of field.
Photograph images that show a main point of interest, angle of view, subject off
center, leading lines, distracting backgrounds, and foreground objects.
INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
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Describe and locate the essential parts of the camera and explain their function.
Demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to fully operate a digital camera with
shutter speeds and f-stops.
Demonstrate knowledge of non-destructive photo editing.
Discuss the use of lines, framing, and mergers in photos.
Discuss how artworks, as well as photography are effective means of expression.
Show examples of images that have a main point of interest, angle of view,
subject off center, leading lines, distracting backgrounds, and foreground objects.
Demonstrate rule of thirds and the do’s and don’t in a composition
ASSESSMENTS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
CORRECTIVES/EXTENSIONS
Correctives:
Read chapter on the camera in the Photoshop manual.
Extensions:
Create a poster depicting the parts and functions of the digital camera.
COURSE Digital Photography
STRAND: 9.1.12, 9.3.12,


GRADE(S): 9-12
TIME FRAME: One Quarter
PA ACADEMIC STANDARDS
9.1.12.A.B.C.D. E. F. G. H. - Production, Performance and Exhibition of Visual
Arts
9.3.12.A.B.D. - Critical Response
ASSESSMENT ANCHORS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
RESOURCES
Video: “Digital Photography”
Digital camera with memory cards
SLR
Computers
Software:
Adobe Photoshop
Magazine Subscriptions:
Inside Photoshop
Websites, On-line tutorials: (Photoshopuser.com) By National Association of Photoshop
Professionals.
Art supplies:
inkjet printer, ink, various types of paper for printing.
Books: Adobe Photoshop CS one-on-one by Deke McClelland, Real World Digital Photography
by Deke McClelland and Katrin Eismann, The Digital Photography Handbook by Tim Daly, The
Photographer’s Manual by John Freeman , How To Use Adobe Photoshop CS by Daniel Giordan,
Adobe Photoshop CS2 User Guide, Creative Digital Photography by Michael Busselle, Digital
Art Studio by Karin Schminke, Dorothy Simpson Krause, and Bonny Pierce Lhotka, Photo Art &
Craft by Carolyn Vosburg Hall. History of Photography Workbook
OBJECTIVES
The learner will recognize effective compositional techniques utilizing Elements and Principles of
design. Students will learn how to re-size an image, move an image, and apply simple image
adjustments.
ESSENTIAL CONTENT
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Demonstrate the use of the basic compositional techniques in his/her photographs.
Identify the design elements and principles that make up the composition of the
photograph.
 Use various re-size methods in Photoshop
 Use of move tool to drag photos to a blank canvas and create an elements photo
collage in Photoshop
 Apply image adjustments to enhance photos
 Add simple text
 Create a photo collage demonstrating the elements and principles of design
relating to a certain subject matter or activity (EX. Hands, feet, shadows, organic
forms, glass)
May also create a black and white image with color enhancement
INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
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Provide information on each compositional technique.
Demonstrate how each compositional technique is used in photographs.
Demonstrate image sizing and adjustments.
Demonstrate how to create a new canvas then move photos to create a photo
collage in Photoshop.
Review rule of thirds
Demonstrate how to desaturate an image then enhance with random color
ASSESSMENTS
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Teacher designed projects
Test and quizzes
Portfolio
Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
CORRECTIVES/EXTENSIONS
Correctives:
Video on composition.
Extensions:
 Create a paper collage of images depicting design elements
COURSE: Digital Photography
STRAND: 9.1.12, 9.4.12
GRADE(S): 9-12
TIME FRAME: One Quarter
PA ACADEMIC STANDARDS


9.1.12.A.B.C.D. E. F. G. H. - Production, Performance and Exhibition of Visual
Arts
9.4.12.A.B.C.D. - Aesthetic Response





ASSESSMENT ANCHORS
Teacher designed projects
Test and quizzes
Portfolio
Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation.
RESOURCES
Video: “Digital Photography”
Digital camera with memory cards
SLR
Computers
Software:
Adobe Photoshop
Magazine Subscriptions:
Inside Photoshop
Websites, On-line tutorials: (Photoshopuser.com) By National Association of Photoshop
Professionals.
Art supplies:
inkjet printer, ink, various types of paper for printing.
Books: Adobe Photoshop CS one-on-one by Deke McClelland, Real World Digital Photography
by Deke McClelland and Katrin Eismann, The Digital Photography Handbook by Tim Daly, The
Photographer’s Manual by John Freeman , How To Use Adobe Photoshop CS by Daniel Giordan,
Adobe Photoshop CS2 User Guide, Creative Digital Photography by Michael Busselle, Digital
Art Studio by Karin Schminke, Dorothy Simpson Krause, and Bonny Pierce Lhotka, Photo Art &
Craft by Carolyn Vosburg Hall. History of Photography Workbook
OBJECTIVES
The learner will be able to understand complex compositional concepts regarding, perspective, angles
and contrast. Artistic filters will be introduced as a method of creating modern art through
photography.
ESSENTIAL CONTENT
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Use artistic filters and paint tools in PhotoShop.
Demonstrate the effective use of the digital camera.
Be able to duplicate a layer.
Produce images that use extreme points of view.
Create several images that demonstrate the application of several filters and have
the layers named as such.
INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
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Provide information on the use of filters and the paint tools.
Demonstration of the use of the artistic filters and paint tools in PhotoShop.
Demonstration of the effective use of the digital camera.
Demonstration of how to duplicate a layer.
Demonstrate how to rename a layer and discuss its importance.
ASSESSMENTS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
CORRECTIVES/EXTENSIONS
Correctives:
Read the chapter on layers in Photoshop CS 4: The Bible.
Extensions:
Create a series of photos using different types of layers.
COURSE: Digital Photography
STRAND: 9.1.12, 9.4.12
GRADE(S): 9-12
TIME FRAME: One Quarter
PA ACADEMIC STANDARDS


9.1.12.A.B.C.D. E. F. G. H. - Production, Performance and Exhibition of Visual
Arts
9.4.12.A.B.C.D. - Aesthetic Response
ASSESSMENT ANCHORS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
RESOURCES
Video: “Digital Photography”
Digital camera with memory cards
SLR
Computers
Software:
Adobe Photoshop
Magazine Subscriptions:
Inside Photoshop
Websites, On-line tutorials: (Photoshopuser.com) By National Association of Photoshop
Professionals.
Art supplies:
inkjet printer, ink, various types of paper for printing.
Books: Adobe Photoshop CS one-on-one by Deke McClelland, Real World Digital Photography
by Deke McClelland and Katrin Eismann, The Digital Photography Handbook by Tim Daly, The
Photographer’s Manual by John Freeman , How To Use Adobe Photoshop CS by Daniel Giordan,
Adobe Photoshop CS2 User Guide, Creative Digital Photography by Michael Busselle, Digital
Art Studio by Karin Schminke, Dorothy Simpson Krause, and Bonny Pierce Lhotka, Photo Art &
Craft by Carolyn Vosburg Hall. History of Photography Workbook
.
OBJECTIVES
The learner will be introduced to studio lighting techniques. The utilization of one (1), two(2), and
multiple light for various effects will be discussed and practiced. The industry standard basic lighting
techniques will be researched and practiced..
ESSENTIAL CONTENT

Apply knowledge of selection tools, layer styles, paint brush, custom shapes,
eraser, and pattern stamp
 Create four different types of of lighting techniques. Utilize multipl light
settings to achieve desired result.
Research lighting techniques utilized in industries such as: fashion, product lighting,
journalism, and sports.
INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
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Discussion on portrait photography showing examples of famous portraits.
Students are to take photos of Portraits and other objects that will be
manipulated for use on projects.
Discuss and show examples of some of the following: reflective surface,
reflections in water, light through a window, close ups, silhouette.
ASSESSMENTS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
CORRECTIVES/EXTENSIONS
Correctives: Read the chapter on layers in Photoshop CS 2: The Bible.
Extensions:
Use editing tools to transform a scanned image
COURSE: Digital Photography
STRAND: 9.1.12, 9.4.12
GRADE(S): 9-12
TIME FRAME: One Quarter
PA ACADEMIC STANDARDS


9.1.12.A.B.C.D. E. F. G. H. - Production, Performance and Exhibition of Visual
Arts
9.4.12.A.B.C.D. - Aesthetic Response
ASSESSMENT ANCHORS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
RESOURCES
Video: “Digital Photography”
Digital camera with memory cards
SLR
Computers
Software:
Adobe Photoshop
Magazine Subscriptions:
Inside Photoshop
Websites, On-line tutorials: (Photoshopuser.com) By National Association of Photoshop
Professionals.
Art supplies:
inkjet printer, ink, various types of paper for printing.
Books: Adobe Photoshop CS one-on-one by Deke McClelland, Real World Digital Photography
by Deke McClelland and Katrin Eismann, The Digital Photography Handbook by Tim Daly, The
Photographer’s Manual by John Freeman , How To Use Adobe Photoshop CS by Daniel Giordan,
Adobe Photoshop CS2 User Guide, Creative Digital Photography by Michael Busselle, Digital
Art Studio by Karin Schminke, Dorothy Simpson Krause, and Bonny Pierce Lhotka, Photo Art &
Craft by Carolyn Vosburg Hall. History of Photography Workbook
.
OBJECTIVES
The student will utilize learned knowledge of portrait photography in order to create a
unique “personality portrait”. Students will utilize personalized props to create interesting
composition that relate to their personality.
ESSENTIAL CONTENT
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Photograph people, places or objects for use in special effects.
Create projects that demonstrate effective use of clone tool, eraser, smudge and
image adjustments. (Sample include: changing a persons head, creating a surreal
image, general special effects)
Merge layers to use clone tool.
Create a digitally manipulated artwork using layer via copy
Add props to a composition in order to create a unique portrait depicting their
personality.
Create a Pop art photograph using a portrait photograph
INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
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Review and demonstrate ideas for special effects.
Demonstrate how the clone tool can be used to switch portraiture heads.
Demonstrate layer via copy for use in special effects or cubism project
Demonstrate kaleidoscope and Litchenstein (Pop art) idea
ASSESSMENTS
 Teacher designed projects
 Test and quizzes
 Portfolio
 Classroom Participation
Research assignment presentation
CORRECTIVES/EXTENSIONS
Correctives:
Read chapter in the PhotoShop workbook.
Extensions:
Use editing tools to transform a scanned image.