Communications
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This major is designed for students who are interested in combining communication
skills, digital technology and creativity. Communication majors will be immersed in
consumer driven activities using 21st Century technology and software programs
to design digital products and address a wide variety of media needs and concerns.
William Penn offers three different pathways: Digital Media, Digital Communication
(Graphic Design) and Journalism.
Recommended Program of Study
Grade 9
- English I
- Integrated Math I
- Science I
- Geography/Civics
- Physical Education/Health
- Communication or Media (Level 1)
- World Language
- Elective
Grade 10
- English II
- Integrated Math II
- Biology
- Economics
- Physical Ed/Drivers Ed
- Journalism I
- Communication or Media
(Level 2) - World Language
Grade 11
- English III
- Integrated Math III
- Science course
- US History
- Communication or Media
(Level 3) - Journalism II
- Marketing Essentials
- Elective
Grade 12
- English IV
- Mathematics class
- Creative Writing
- Penn Publications
- World History
- Elective
- Elective
- Elective
Additional courses or electives that relate to this major:
• Marketing
• Art Design (Levels I, II, III)
• Legal Studies courses
• Penn Publications
Online courses:
• Sports & Entertainment Marketing
• Digital Information Technology
• Art in World Cultures
• Art History and Criticism Honors
• Fashion and Interior Design
• Introduction to Social Media
• Mythology and Folklore
• Philosophy; Social Problems
• Your Digital Footprint on Social Media
• Foundation of Programming
After School:
• Penn Publications
Below are recommended courses for each Communications’ pathways. Communication majors are encouraged to take as many of the Communication courses that are offered for a balanced curriculum and transcript.
Graphic Design
Graphic Design I
Graphic Design II
Graphic Design III
Graphic Design IV
Digital Media *
• Digital Media Essentials (Level 1)
• Web Design and Development (Level 2)
• Video Production & Special Effects (Level 3)
• Communication, Technology, Research & Development (Level 4)
Journalism
Journalism I
Journalism II
Creative Writing I
Creative Writing II
Creative Writing III
Digital Communication Technology Pathway
The Digital Communication Technology (DCT) program of study is a three course instructional program of study that requires students to apply the skills and tools of digital designers used in graphic design, pixel-based imagery manipulation, HTML coding, digital video production, vector image manipulation, digital illustration, and digital publishing. Students utilize strategies to solve open-ended problems while learning how to apply technical skills, creative skills, industry knowledge, documentation techniques, and processes using modern, industry-leading technology and software. Client based learning experiences and industry-mentored projects introduce students to a wide array of related careers in public relations, marketing, web and digital communications and printing.
Courses:
• Foundations of Digital Design (Level 1)
• Processes of Digital Production (Level 2)
• Applications of Digital Design (Level 3)
• WBL: Penn Publications
Journalism
• Journalism I
• Journalism II
• Creative Writing I
• Creative Writing II
• Creative Writing III
In the Digital Media program of study, students are asked to use communication practices such as web design, video production, and Game Design within the context of problems that are relevant to their lives. They are also introduced to topics such as interface design, limits of computers, as well as societal and ethical issues. Students explore a range of careers in Digital Media as they learn to connect their informal knowledge, technology skills, and beliefs about Digital Media to the theoretical and foundational tenets of communication. Students apply communication skills to hands-on projects. They explore the roles of digital media specialists as they study the required technical skill set, soft skills, educational pathways, and ongoing training required for communication careers. Students examine communication problems that are culturally-relevant, and address social and ethical issues while engaging in several in-depth projects to demonstrate real-world applications.