This document provides instructions for a graphic design history writing assignment. Students must choose a design work from one of four periods and write a 1500-2000 word essay connecting the formal design elements like color, shape, and composition to the content of the work. Research on the design work from at least three reputable sources must be included with citations. The paper should be printed, stapled, include an image of the design work with caption, and submitted directly to the instructor by the due date.

1. Graphic Design History
Asst. Prof. Dale Konstanz
Writing Assignment Form and Content
Due Thursday, March 28th in class
Read the instructions carefully and follow the guidelines.
1. Choose one design work from the Bauhaus, International Typographic Style, New York
School, or Postmodern Period.
2. Write a 1500 – 2000 word essay connecting the form and content in the work. The essay
should describe the use of color, shape, line, texture, space, light and shadow, and
composition and connect it to the content. For example, why were those particular colors
used in relation to the subject matter? How do the formal elements (color, line, shape,
space, texture, composition) help communicate the meaning and or / convey a feeling in
the work?
3. Start by compiling research about the design work to better understand the work. Use at
least 3 reputable sources (museum websites, articles from design magazines, design
books, etc.) Any information gleaned from research should involve the citation of
references. Include a Bibliography using APA format. Any writing that is not your own will
be considered plagiarism and will result in failure of this assignment.
4. It is unnecessary to include any additional historical information or research unless it
relates to the objective of connecting the form and content.
5. The paper should be printed on white A4 paper. Use a readable font such as Verdana,
Helvetica, or Tahoma. The text should be single-spaced.
6. Include an image of the design work on a separate page. The image should be labeled
with the name of the designer, title / description, date, and medium.
7. Include your name and student id number on the top right of each page. Staple the pages
together.
8. Submit a hard copy of the paper directly to the instructor. Papers that are emailed will not
be accepted. Papers submitted late will be downgraded for each class session that it is
late. The paper must be competed to pass this course.
The paper will be evaluated on the depth of discussion, topic focus and cohesiveness, integration
of knowledge, mechanics of writing, and inclusion of an image with a caption.