This module centres on the further development of fundamental cognitive and psychomotor graphical skills with an initial focus on the philosophy and structure of junior cycle Graphics. Freehand and measured drawings, physical modelling and 3D parametric CAD will be utilised in exploring various projection systems for the communication of descriptive geometry principles. Knowledge and understanding of projection systems will be further developed in this module as geometry becomes increasingly complex and subject to manipulation. Students will be expected to analyse the various projection systems and be able to make informed decisions when selecting a suitable system for communicating graphical information. As the study of geometry becomes more descriptive in nature, a significant emphasis will be placed on harnessing the development of freehand sketching and modelling skills to support internal dialogue while graphically problem solving. These skills will be of particular importance in solving problems which require exploration and synthesis of various geometric principles in different applied contexts. Considering the importance of graphicacy across the general population, students will also explore different non-graphical methods communicating geometric information to different audiences across different disciplines.

Analysis of Junior Cycle Graphics specification and Leaving Certificate Design and Communication Graphics syllabus, Spatial skill development, Axonometric Projection, Inclined solids, First auxiliary projections, Rotation of solid objects, Introduction to the oblique plane, Traces, True lengths, Inclinations of lines and edges, True shape of surfaces, Surface development and envelopment (right solids) Solids in contact. Parametric CAD: Modelling strategies, bi-directional associativity, robust and flexible models, robust sketching strategies, bottom-up assembly modelling, design intent, Boolean operations. Generate part, assembly and drawing files to support and communicate design thinking. Utilisation of 3D CAD and other digital media to support understanding of descriptive geometry principles, Freehand sketching to support problem solving, Model making to support visualisation.

On successful completion of this module students will: Critically analyse the philosophy and structure of the Junior Cycle Graphics specification and Leaving Certificate Design and Communication Graphics syllabus and discuss how it contributes to the development of graphical capability Discuss how spatial skill development can be developed in the graphics classroom Discriminate between the various projection systems and be able to select an appropriate system to communicate graphical information and/or solve graphical problems Select and apply appropriate geometric principles when solving descriptive and applied geometry problems Demonstrate the capacity to construct and deconstruct artefacts into primitives to support strategic CAD modelling Apply numeracy and digital literacy skills in the strategic design and creation of parametric models that integrate the concept of design intent Support internal graphical dialogue of geometric principles through the medium of freehand sketching and modelling

On successful completion of this module students will: Develop an appreciation of the role of spatial skills as core competencies in graphical education Develop an awareness of the value of Technical Graphics in general education

On successful completion of this module students will: Demonstrate the capacity to utilise physical materials, 3D parametric CAD and associated digital skills to support the communication of graphical principles through the creation of models. Further develop the ability to externalise graphical information through manual freehand sketching and modelling techniques

Lectures will challenge students understanding of the philosophy of graphical education at Junior Cycle in addition to facilitating the analysis of various descriptive geometry principles. Lab sessions will be predicated on synthesising knowledge of plane geometry principles with descriptive geometry applications. The manufacture of physical models and CAD resources during labs will support visualization and understanding of geometric principles. The module will be assessed through both summative and formative methods. A portfolio will be utilised to demonstrate the development of analytical problem-solving skills associate with plane geometry principles. In addition, students will be required to demonstrate capability in relation to strategic CAD modelling.