Stop-Motion Animating Adventures: Unleash Your Creativity
Unleash your child's creativity with our captivating stop-motion animation series! From basics to advanced techniques, they'll master storytelling through characters and visuals. Join now and watch their imagination soar!
Amy Maruska, M.Ed
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(233)
What's included
10 live meetings
8 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Here are some optional weekly homework assignments based on each class in the series: Week 1: Class 1 - Introduction to Stop Motion Animation Homework: Create a short stop motion animation using any objects available at home. Experiment with different movements and explore basic animation principles. Week 2: Class 2 - Bringing Inanimate Objects to Life: Basic Techniques Homework: Select a favorite toy or object and create a short stop-motion animation that showcases smooth transitions and incorporates at least three different basic techniques learned in class. Week 3: Class 3 - Crafting Characters: Character Design and Creation Homework: Design and create a unique character for your stop-motion animation. Use drawing materials or craft supplies to bring your character to life, and present it with a short backstory or description. Week 4: Class 4 - Storytelling with Stop Motion: Creating Engaging Plots Homework: Develop a storyboard for a stop-motion animation with a clear plot and well-defined characters. Include key scenes and write brief descriptions for each scene to showcase your storytelling skills. Week 5: Class 5 - Lights, Camera, Action: Advanced Techniques and Final Projects Homework: Plan and begin working on your final stop-motion animation project. Experiment with lighting techniques and incorporate at least one advanced camera movement or angle into your animation. Week 6: Class 6 - Set Design and Props: Building Dynamic Environments Homework: Create a miniature set or background for your stop-motion animation. Use various materials and props to enhance the visual appeal and storytelling elements of your scene. Week 7: Class 7 - Sound Effects and Music: Enhancing the Stop Motion Experience Homework: Add sound effects and background music to one of your previous stop-motion animations or create a new short animation with carefully selected audio elements that enhance the overall experience. Week 8: Class 8 - Mastering Motion: Advanced Movement and Timing Techniques Homework: Create a short stop motion animation that showcases advanced movement techniques learned in class, focusing on smooth and realistic motions with precise timing. Week 9: Class 9 - Special Effects and Visual Tricks: Adding Wow Factor to Animations Homework: Experiment with special effects and visual tricks to create a short stop motion animation that incorporates at least one impressive visual effect or trick to captivate your audience. Week 10: Class 10 - Film Festival Preparation: Editing, Presenting, and Showcasing Projects Homework: Edit and finalize your final stop-motion animation project. Pay attention to sequencing, pacing, and smooth transitions. Prepare a brief presentation or showcase plan to present your project to the class or family members. Please note that these homework assignments are optional and designed to encourage further exploration and practice. Students can choose to participate based on their interests and available time.Assessment
Assessments for each class in the series: Week 1: Class 1 - Introduction to Stop Motion Animation Assessment: Evaluate students' understanding of basic stop-motion animation principles through a hands-on exercise where they demonstrate their ability to create simple stop-motion animation. Week 2: Class 2 - Bringing Inanimate Objects to Life: Basic Techniques Assessment: Create a short stop motion animation using basic techniques taught in class. Assess students' ability to apply smooth transitions, capture consistent movements, and maintain appropriate timing. Week 3: Class 3 - Crafting Characters: Character Design and Creation Assessment: Students present their designed character and provide a brief explanation of the character's backstory or traits. Assess students' creativity in character design and their ability to effectively communicate the character's personality through visuals. Week 4: Class 4 - Storytelling with Stop Motion: Creating Engaging Plots Assessment: Present their storyboard for a stop-motion animation project. Evaluate their storytelling skills based on the clarity of the plot, character development, and inclusion of key scenes. Week 5: Class 5 - Lights, Camera, Action: Advanced Techniques and Final Projects Assessment: Evaluate students' final stop-motion animation projects based on their implementation of advanced techniques, such as lighting, camera movements, and visual composition. Assess the overall quality and effectiveness of their animations. Week 6: Class 6 - Set Design and Props: Building Dynamic Environments Assessment: Students present their miniature set or background design and explain how it enhances the storytelling experience. Assess creativity, attention to detail, and ability to create visually appealing environments. Week 7: Class 7 - Sound Effects and Music: Enhancing the Stop Motion Experience Assessment: Evaluate students' use of sound effects and music in stop-motion animation. Assess their ability to select appropriate audio elements that enhance the mood and storytelling, as well as the synchronization between visuals and audio. Week 8: Class 8 - Mastering Motion: Advanced Movement and Timing Techniques Assessment: Assess students' proficiency in advanced movement and timing techniques by evaluating a short stop-motion animation they create. Looking for smooth and natural movements, precise timing, and overall animation quality. Week 9: Class 9 - Special Effects and Visual Tricks: Adding Wow Factor to Animations Assessment: Evaluate students' ability to incorporate special effects and visual tricks into stop-motion animation. Assess the creativity, impact, and technical execution of the visual effects used. Week 10: Class 10 - Film Festival Preparation: Editing, Presenting, and Showcasing Projects Assessment: Evaluate students' final stop-motion animation projects based on the overall quality, editing, pacing, and presentation skills. Assess their ability to effectively showcase their work and engage an audience. Assessment will be used for the following: 1) Can help gauge students' understanding and progress in various aspects of stop-motion animation throughout the series. This allows me to adapt and adjust learning to meet their needs. 2) Adjust teaching based on the specific goals and learning outcomes and student needs.Class Experience
Ignite your imagination and embark on an incredible journey into the world of stop-motion animation! Join our exciting 10-series class designed exclusively for 10-14-year-old aspiring filmmakers and unleash your creativity through the power of animated storytelling. Series of Classes: Week 1: Class 1: Introduction to Stop Motion Animation Week 2: Class 2: Bringing Inanimate Objects to Life: Basic Techniques Week 3: Class 3: Crafting Characters: Character Design and Creation Week 4: Class 4: Storytelling with Stop Motion: Creating Engaging Plots Week 5: Class 5: Lights, Camera, Action: Advanced Techniques and Final Projects Week 6: Class 6: Set Design and Props: Building Dynamic Environments Week 7: Class 7: Sound Effects and Music: Enhancing the Stop Motion Experience Week 8: Class 8: Mastering Motion: Advanced Movement and Timing Techniques Week 9: Class 9: Special Effects and Visual Tricks: Adding Wow Factor to Animations Week 10: Class 10: Film Festival Preparation: Editing, Presenting, and Showcasing Projects CLASS DESCRIPTIONS: Week 1: Class 1 - Introduction to Stop Motion Animation Discover the enchanting world of stop-motion animation! In this introductory class, dive into the fundamentals of stop motion and learn how to bring static objects to life through the magic of animation. Explore the basic techniques that form the foundation of this art form and set the stage for your creative journey. Week 2: Class 2 - Bringing Inanimate Objects to Life: Basic Techniques Unleash your creativity as you delve deeper into the world of stop-motion animation. In this class, master the basic techniques that will breathe life into your creations. Learn how to capture smooth movements, create seamless transitions, and unlock the secrets of timing and pacing. With these essential skills, you'll be ready to animate with confidence! Week 3: Class 3 - Crafting Characters: Character Design and Creation Embark on an adventure of character creation! In this class, discover the art of crafting captivating characters for your stop-motion animations. Explore different design techniques, learn how to give your characters unique personalities, and bring them to life on the screen. From quirky creatures to heroic protagonists, unlock the secrets of character development and add depth to your storytelling. Week 4: Class 4 - Storytelling with Stop Motion: Creating Engaging Plots Step into the realm of storytelling and unleash your imagination! In this class, learn the art of creating engaging plots for your stop-motion animations. Dive into the principles of narrative structure, explore various storytelling techniques, and master the art of pacing and suspense. Whether it's a thrilling adventure or a heartwarming tale, discover how to weave compelling stories that captivate your audience. Week 5: Class 5 - Lights, Camera, Action: Advanced Techniques and Final Projects Take your stop motion skills to new heights! In this class, explore advanced techniques and dive deeper into the world of stop-motion animation. Learn how to use lighting effectively to set the mood and atmosphere for your scenes. Delve into camera angles, perspectives, and camera movements to add cinematic flair to your animations. Bring together all your newfound knowledge and create your final project that showcases your mastery of the art form. Week 6: Class 6 - Set Design and Props: Building Dynamic Environments Transform your animations with captivating environments! In this class, learn the art of set design and prop creation. Explore techniques for building dynamic and visually appealing sets that enhance the storytelling experience. From creating miniature worlds to crafting intricate details, discover how to bring depth and richness to your stop-motion animations. Week 7: Class 7 - Sound Effects and Music: Enhancing the Stop Motion Experience Immerse your audience in the world of your animations with the power of sound! In this class, explore the impact of sound effects and music in enhancing the stop-motion experience. Learn how to select and create sound effects that bring your characters and scenes to life. Discover the art of choosing the perfect music to evoke emotions and create a truly immersive storytelling experience. Week 8: Class 8 - Mastering Motion: Advanced Movement and Timing Techniques Refine your animation skills and become a master of motion! In this class, explore advanced movement and timing techniques that add finesse and realism to your stop-motion animations. Learn how to create dynamic and fluid movements, experiment with different motion styles, and master the art of timing. Elevate the quality of your animations by infusing them with captivating and natural movements. Week 9: Class 9 - Special Effects and Visual Tricks: Adding Wow Factor to Animations Unleash your creativity and add a touch of magic to your animations! In this class, explore special effects and visual tricks that bring the "wow" factor to your stop-motion projects. Learn how to create illusions, incorporate visual effects, and experiment with creative techniques to add excitement and surprise to your animations. Elevate your storytelling by wowing your audience with stunning visual spectacles. Week 10: Class 10 - Film Festival Preparation: Editing, Presenting, and Showcasing Projects It's time to shine the spotlight on your creations! In this final class, discover the essential steps for preparing your animations for a film festival or presentation. Learn the art of editing, polish your projects to perfection, and explore effective techniques for presenting and showcasing your work. Celebrate your journey as a stop-motion animator and share your masterpieces with pride!
Learning Goals
Lesson 1 - Introduction to Stop Motion Animation
1. Understand the basic principles and techniques of stop-motion animation.
2. Gain familiarity with the tools and equipment used in stop-motion animation.
Lesson 2 - Bringing Inanimate Objects to Life: Basic Techniques
1. Master basic animation techniques, such as frame-by-frame movement and capturing smooth transitions.
2. Develop an understanding of timing and pacing in stop-motion animation.
Lesson 3 - Crafting Characters: Character Design and Creation
1. Learn techniques for character design, including shape, color, and visual storytelling elements.
2. Develop skills in creating expressive and unique characters through physical attributes and movements.
Lesson 4 - Storytelling with Stop Motion: Creating Engaging Plots
1. Understand the key elements of storytelling, such as plot structure and character development.
2. Learn how to create engaging narratives in stop-motion animation through effective pacing and suspense.
Lesson 5 - Lights, Camera, Action: Advanced Techniques and Final Projects
1. Explore advanced techniques for lighting in stop-motion animation to set mood and atmosphere.
2. Gain proficiency in camera angles, perspectives, and movements to add a cinematic quality to animations.
Lesson 6 - Set Design and Props: Building Dynamic Environments
1. Develop skills in designing and constructing visually appealing sets and backgrounds.
2. Learn techniques for creating and incorporating props that enhance the storytelling experience.
Lesson 7 - Sound Effects and Music: Enhancing the Stop Motion Experience
1. Understand the role of sound effects in creating a more immersive stop-motion experience.
2. Learn how to select and use music effectively to enhance the mood and emotions of your animations.
Lesson 8 - Mastering Motion: Advanced Movement and Timing Techniques
1. Explore advanced techniques for creating natural and dynamic movements in stop-motion animation.
2. Gain proficiency in timing and pacing to bring life and realism to your characters and scenes.
Lesson 9 - Special Effects and Visual Tricks: Adding Wow Factor to Animations
1. Learn various special effects techniques to add visual impact and excitement to your stop-motion animations.
2. Experiment with creative visual tricks to create illusions and captivate your audience.
Lesson 10 - Film Festival Preparation: Editing, Presenting, and Showcasing Projects
1. Develop editing skills to refine and enhance your stop-motion projects.
2. Gain knowledge and strategies for presenting and showcasing your work effectively in a film festival or presentation setting.
Syllabus
10 Lessons
over 10 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Stop Motion Animation
Understand the basic principles and techniques of stop-motion animation.
Gain familiarity with the tools and equipment used in stop-motion animation. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Bringing Inanimate Objects to Life: Basic Techniques
Master basic animation techniques, such as frame-by-frame movement and capturing smooth transitions.
Develop an understanding of timing and pacing in stop-motion animation. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Crafting Characters: Character Design and Creation
Learn techniques for character design, including shape, color, and visual storytelling elements.
Develop skills in creating expressive and unique characters through physical attributes and movements. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Storytelling with Stop Motion: Creating Engaging Plots
Understand the key elements of storytelling, such as plot structure and character development.
Learn how to create engaging narratives in stop-motion animation through effective pacing and suspense. 50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
In this class, we use Stop Motion Studio Pro App. This can be found listed in the class resources. Students will also have homework activities to work on each week between classes. This will help them practice skills and improve their abilities.
Supply List
Here's a basic supplies list for the stop-motion animation series:
1. iPad, Tablet, Computer, or Smartphone: A device with a camera to capture the frames of your stop motion animations. It can be a web camera, a smartphone, or a tablet.
2. Tripod or Sturdy Stand: To keep your camera steady while capturing the frames, a tripod or a sturdy stand is essential. It helps maintain consistency and stability throughout the animation process.
3. Stop Motion Animation App or Software: Stop Motion Studio Pro
4. Animation Supplies:
- Toys you want to use
- Clay or Modeling Clay: For creating claymation characters and objects.
- Paper and Pencils: For sketching storyboards and designing characters.
- Craft Supplies: Various materials like colored paper, foam sheets, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes for creating props and set elements.
- Scissors, Glue, and Tape: Essential tools for crafting and assembling props, backgrounds, and set pieces.
- Wire or Armature: To provide support and structure to characters or objects during animation.
5. Lighting Equipment: Basic lighting equipment like desk lamps or LED lights can be helpful in illuminating your set and enhancing the visual quality of your animations.
6. Sound Recording Tools: If you plan to incorporate sound effects or voiceovers in your animations, consider having a microphone or a smartphone with a good quality built-in microphone for recording audio.
7. Optional Props and Backgrounds: Depending on the stories and themes you want to explore, you may need additional props, backgrounds, or miniatures to create more detailed and dynamic animations.External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined May, 2020
4.9
233reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Minnesota Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Master's Degree in Education from Concordia University
Hello! My name is Amy.
I am so happy to see that you are interested in my class.
Let me tell you a bit about me:
I am so excited about online learning and teaching. My passions encompass education, communications, and technology! Of course, you can read all about me in my Teacher Profile, but here is a little to get you started:
_____________________________
👩🏻🎓My Educational Background and Expertise👩🏻🎓
💫 Licensed teacher in the State of Minnesota
💫 Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood (specialized in Birth to Grade 3) & Elementary Education (K-6)
💫 Masters in Education in Curriculum & Instruction with a minor in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM)
💫 Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching and Learning
💫Graduate Level: Information and Communication Technology
_____________________________
🌎 Work & Life Experience 🌎
19 Years of Classroom Experience
🔸11 years in Early Childhood Settings (Prek & Kindergarten)
🔸8 years in Public Education (Kindergarten & 6th Grade)
🔸Afterschool Engineering Club Teacher
🔸Owner and Director of STEAM Summer Enrichment Program for Elementary Aged Students
🔸Credentialed Online Teacher since 2011
🔸Completed over 5,000 one-to-one ESL Online Classes
🔸TESOL
🔸Child Care Director Credential
🔸Approved Trainer for Adult Education Topics since 2013
🔸4 Years & Counting Homeschooling MomReviews
Live Group Class
$200
for 10 classes1x per week, 10 weeks
50 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
3-10 learners per class
Financial Assistance
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