This document defines and provides examples of the main types of typefaces: 1) Serif typefaces have short lines or "serifs" at the end of strokes. Examples include Times New Roman and Georgia. They are easy to read and commonly used in books and newspapers. 2) Sans serif typefaces do not have serifs. Examples include Arial and Helvetica. They are used for computer screens and newspaper headlines due to their clarity. 3) Decorative typefaces are ornamental and not intended for body text. Examples include Party LET and Broadway. They are eye-catching and used in advertisements. 4) Script typefaces are based on handwriting styles. Examples include Z

1. S
Types of Type
Unit 39 Typefaces & Letter Forms

2. Learning outcomes
S On completion of this unit a learner should:
S Understand historical and contemporary developments of
typefaces and letter forms
S Know how typeface styles and letter forms communicate a
message
S Know correct terminology for typefaces and letter forms
S Be able to create design work that explores typefaces and
letter forms.

3. Task 1 P3, M3, D3

4. Describe the different types of type….
Include examples both of different
types and find an example when it is
used on a book cover….

6. Serif
S Serif is a type classification which is evident by the short lines
attached to the end of the stroke in a letter. Typography
sources often calls this type as ‘Roman’, due to the fact that the
origin of serif comes from inscription all writing carved into
stone during the Roman period. The short lines are not added
decoration – they were created to neaten the ends of the lines
as the letters were chiseled into stone.
S Some examples of serif-type fonts are: Georgia, Baskerville,
and Times New Roman. These fonts appear as easily
readable, yet elegant. Serif-type fonts are mainly seen in books
(including e-book readers), newspaper columns, and
magazines.

7. Sans Serif
S Sans Serif, also known as ‘Gothic’, is the opposite of serif – it is
a type classification which does not have the short line on the
end of the stroke in a letter. The term comes from the French
word ‘sans’, meaning ‘without’. This type of font originates from
as early as 5 B.C., which can be found in Greek and Latin
inscriptions.
S Some examples of sans serif-type fonts are: Arial, Helvetica,
and Verdana. Sans serif-type fonts are used for the display of
text on computer screens as lower resolution displays are able
to clearly show the text whereas serif-type fonts may disappear.
It is also used for newspaper headlines due to its typical
blacker colour, and are seldom used in body text.

8. Decorative
S Decorative type, also known as ‘Display’ or ‘Ornamental’, is a
type classification which is identified by its decorative style and
use of ornaments. These type fonts became popular in the 19th
Century during the Victorian era, as well as the time during the
Art Noveau movement. Evident by its name, decorative-type
fonts should only be used for decorative purposes and should
not be used for body text.
S Some examples of decorative-type fonts are: Party LET,
Broadway, and Jokerman. This type classification is used in
many advertisements and posters due to its eye-catching and
artistic designs.

9. Script
S Script typefaces are based on handwriting, particularly
the cursive style. The fonts of this type classification are
based on the letterforms of 17th and 18th century writing
masters such as George Shelley and George Bickham.
These typefaces began appearing in the 19th century
which were used for formal matters such as invitations
and diplomas as the fonts presented an elegant and
elevated look.
S Some examples of script-type fonts are: Zapfino, Bradley
Hand, and Snell Roundhand.

10. Task 2
Book Cover Research
Find 10 book covers that
use appealing and
interesting typographic
design. Describe the type
used using correct
terminology and what the
type is trying to
communicate

12. Task 3
Choose your favorite book
or one you studies at
school – you need to know
the story.
Write a brief synopsis of
the book and using DaFont
find 10 possible type faces
that you feel fit them theme
/ style of the book and
explain why you feel they

13. Choose your favourite 3 song lyrics and
produce a typographic design using
illustrator