The basic principles of graphic communication
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify and apply the basic principles of graphic communication in my designs.
Key learning points
- Graphic communication involves the use of visual elements to convey messages.
- Key principles include balance, contrast, hierarchy, emphasis, unity, variety and movement.
- Understanding how different elements can be arranged to create effective communication.
- Ability to critique and improve designs based on principles of graphic communication.
Keywords
Balance - the distribution of visual weight in a work of art
Contrast - the arrangement of opposite elements to create visual interest
Emphasis - the part of the design that catches the viewer's attention
Hierarchy - the arrangement of elements to show importance, guiding the viewer’s eye
Unity - the feeling of harmony between all parts of the artwork
Common misconception
Graphic communication is mainly about making things look pretty.
While aesthetics are important, graphic communication focuses on conveying information effectively through visual principles like balance, hierarchy and alignment.
Teacher tip
Use real-world examples that pupils can relate to, like social media graphics or product packaging, to illustrate key principles. This helps connect theory to practice and help to keep pupils engaged.
Equipment
Printed or digital examples of graphic design (flyers, posters, logos). Sketching materials (paper, pens, pencils, rulers). Digital design software if available.
Licence
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Why is colour important in art and design?
Q2.Which of these is an example of graphic communication?
Q3.What is meant by analysing artwork?
Q4.What is the main purpose of graphic communication?
Q5.What are the basic visual elements in design?
Q6.A visual hierarchy arranges elements in order of ...
To help you plan your 10 art and design lesson on: The basic principles of graphic communication, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 art and design lesson on: The basic principles of graphic communication, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 art and design lessons from the Graphic Communications unit, dive into the full secondary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.