Glossary · word list
English terms: Arts
921 words and terms, A–Z, from School Launch lessons. Each links to the lesson where it is taught.
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60-30-10 ruleEnglish
A proportion rule of thumb: about 60% of the design in the dominant (usually quiet) color, 30% in a secondary, 10% in the accent.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
A proportion rule of thumb: about 60% of the design in the dominant (usually quiet) color, 30% in a secondary, 10% in the accent.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
8-point gridEnglish
A spacing discipline where every margin, padding and gap is a multiple of 8 (with 4 for fine adjustment): 8, 16, 24, 32, 48, 64. Popularized by Google's Material Design (2014).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
A spacing discipline where every margin, padding and gap is a multiple of 8 (with 4 for fine adjustment): 8, 16, 24, 32, 48, 64. Popularized by Google's Material Design (2014).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
A
AA and AAAEnglish
WCAG conformance levels: AA requires 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (18 pt, or 14 pt bold); AAA raises text to 7:1.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
WCAG conformance levels: AA requires 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (18 pt, or 14 pt bold); AAA raises text to 7:1.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
abstract markEnglish
A non-representational shape built to acquire meaning through use — strong for companies whose work has no obvious picture.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
A non-representational shape built to acquire meaning through use — strong for companies whose work has no obvious picture.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
acid-freeEnglish
Paper made without the acids that cause cheap paper to yellow and crumble over time.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6)
Paper made without the acids that cause cheap paper to yellow and crumble over time.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6)
acrylic paintEnglish
Paint made of pigment in an acrylic polymer (a kind of plastic) that dries into a flexible, waterproof film.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
Paint made of pigment in an acrylic polymer (a kind of plastic) that dries into a flexible, waterproof film.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
actionableEnglish
The test of useful feedback: it names a change the artist could actually make. "The focal point loses to the border" is actionable; "I don't like it" is not.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
The test of useful feedback: it names a change the artist could actually make. "The focal point loses to the border" is actionable; "I don't like it" is not.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
actual textureEnglish
Texture you can really touch, like the bumps of thick paint or the grain of a carving.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4)
Texture you can really touch, like the bumps of thick paint or the grain of a carving.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4)
additive and subtractiveEnglish
Adding clay to build up shapes, or carving clay away to cut down into the surface.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
Adding clay to build up shapes, or carving clay away to cut down into the surface.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
additive color (RGB)English
Mixing light: red, green and blue beams add to make lighter colors, and all three at full strength make white. Screens work this way.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12)
Mixing light: red, green and blue beams add to make lighter colors, and all three at full strength make white. Screens work this way.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12)
additive sculptureEnglish
Sculpture made by adding or building up material, such as modeling clay or welding metal.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4)
Sculpture made by adding or building up material, such as modeling clay or welding metal.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4)
Adobe Creative CloudEnglish
Adobe's subscription licensing: roughly $60 a month for all apps or about $23 for one, rented, not owned; free trials and discounted student plans exist.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
Adobe's subscription licensing: roughly $60 a month for all apps or about $23 for one, rented, not owned; free trials and discounted student plans exist.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
advance against royaltiesEnglish
Money paid to the author or illustrator before publication; the book must "earn out" the advance from royalties before further payments begin.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12)
Money paid to the author or illustrator before publication; the book must "earn out" the advance from royalties before further payments begin.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12)
advertising illustrationEnglish
Art commissioned by an agency or brand to sell a product; the highest day rates and the most layers of approval.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
Art commissioned by an agency or brand to sell a product; the highest day rates and the most layers of approval.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
Affinity suiteEnglish
Serif's one-time-purchase alternatives (Affinity Photo, Designer, Publisher), professional tools positioned against the subscription model.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
Serif's one-time-purchase alternatives (Affinity Photo, Designer, Publisher), professional tools positioned against the subscription model.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
affordanceEnglish
What an object's appearance tells you about how to use it. A raised, shadowed rectangle affords pressing; underlined colored text affords clicking. The term came through psychologist James J. Gibson and designer Don Norman.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
What an object's appearance tells you about how to use it. A raised, shadowed rectangle affords pressing; underlined colored text affords clicking. The term came through psychologist James J. Gibson and designer Don Norman.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
afterimageEnglish
The faint complementary color you see after staring at a strong color.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 5) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
The faint complementary color you see after staring at a strong color.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 5) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
alignmentEnglish
Lining up the edges of text and images so the design looks orderly and connected.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Shop & Trades, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
Lining up the edges of text and images so the design looks orderly and connected.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Shop & Trades, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
alla primaEnglish
Italian for “at the first attempt”: painting wet into wet in one session, with confident visible strokes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
Italian for “at the first attempt”: painting wet into wet in one session, with confident visible strokes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
alpha lock / clippingEnglish
Restricting paint to a layer's existing pixels (or to the layer below), so shading stays inside the flats without re-selecting.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
Restricting paint to a layer's existing pixels (or to the layer below), so shading stays inside the flats without re-selecting.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
alt textEnglish
The written description attached to an image, read aloud by screen readers and shown when images fail to load — mandatory craftsmanship in email, where many readers block images.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 6.3 (grade 12)
The written description attached to an image, read aloud by screen readers and shown when images fail to load — mandatory craftsmanship in email, where many readers block images.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 6.3 (grade 12)
altarpieceEnglish
A painting or carving placed above or behind the altar in a church.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Composition & Creative Writing: Comparison, Characterization and Description, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8)
A painting or carving placed above or behind the altar in a church.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Composition & Creative Writing: Comparison, Characterization and Description, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8)
alternating patternEnglish
A pattern that switches back and forth between two or more motifs, like bird, flower, bird, flower.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2)
A pattern that switches back and forth between two or more motifs, like bird, flower, bird, flower.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2)
ambient lightEnglish
The general light that fills a space, such as cool blue light from the sky outdoors.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8)
The general light that fills a space, such as cool blue light from the sky outdoors.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8)
analogousEnglish
Using three to five colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel, such as yellow, yellow-green and green.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
Using three to five colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel, such as yellow, yellow-green and green.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
analogous colorsEnglish
Three to five colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel, like yellow, yellow-orange and orange.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
Three to five colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel, like yellow, yellow-orange and orange.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
analysisEnglish
The second step: explaining how the elements and principles are organized.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 3.2 (grade 11)
The second step: explaining how the elements and principles are organized.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 3.2 (grade 11)
analyzeEnglish
Step 2: explain how the elements and principles are used.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6)
Step 2: explain how the elements and principles are used.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6)
anatomyEnglish
The study of the structure of a body: its bones, muscles and joints.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Explore Dinosaurs · Ranger, Stop 2.2 (Ages 10–13) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5)
The study of the structure of a body: its bones, muscles and joints.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Explore Dinosaurs · Ranger, Stop 2.2 (Ages 10–13) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5)
anchor point / nodeEnglish
A point on a vector path where the curve is defined; its handles set the curve's direction and tension on each side.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
A point on a vector path where the curve is defined; its handles set the curve's direction and tension on each side.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
AngelusEnglish
A prayer said three times a day when a church bell rings, in the morning, at noon and in the evening.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 1)
A prayer said three times a day when a church bell rings, in the morning, at noon and in the evening.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 1)
annotationEnglish
A short note written next to a drawing to explain or label it.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 6.1 (grade 10) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 2.4 (grade 11) · +1 more
A short note written next to a drawing to explain or label it.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 6.1 (grade 10) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 2.4 (grade 11) · +1 more
AnnunciationEnglish
The announcement by the angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would bear the Son of God (Luke 1:26–38).
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5) · Explore Heroines of History and Faith · Expert, Stop 1.8 (Ages 14+) · Explore Heroines of History and Faith · Ranger, Stop 1.8 (Ages 10–13)
The announcement by the angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would bear the Son of God (Luke 1:26–38).
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5) · Explore Heroines of History and Faith · Expert, Stop 1.8 (Ages 14+) · Explore Heroines of History and Faith · Ranger, Stop 1.8 (Ages 10–13)
AP sealEnglish
A label (“Approved Product”) from the Art and Creative Materials Institute showing that a product has been reviewed and is considered non-toxic when used as directed.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
A label (“Approved Product”) from the Art and Creative Materials Institute showing that a product has been reviewed and is considered non-toxic when used as directed.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
apseEnglish
The rounded or many-sided end of the church behind the altar.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
The rounded or many-sided end of the church behind the altar.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
armatureEnglish
An inside support, like a ball of foil, that helps a sculpture keep its shape and saves clay.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 2.5 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
An inside support, like a ball of foil, that helps a sculpture keep its shape and saves clay.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 2.5 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
arrangementEnglish
The way the artist places the objects before drawing them.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 7.3 (grade 10) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 5.2 (grade 12) · +3 more
The way the artist places the objects before drawing them.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 7.3 (grade 10) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 5.2 (grade 12) · +3 more
art criticismEnglish
Careful, organized thinking and talking about an artwork; not the same as complaining or finding fault.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6)
Careful, organized thinking and talking about an artwork; not the same as complaining or finding fault.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6)
art directorEnglish
The experienced designer or illustrator who sets the visual direction of a project, hires artists, and approves or revises their work.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
The experienced designer or illustrator who sets the visual direction of a project, hires artists, and approves or revises their work.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
art director (AD)English
The person who hires illustrators, writes the brief, approves sketches and defends the work inside the client's organization; your most important professional relationship.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
The person who hires illustrators, writes the brief, approves sketches and defends the work inside the client's organization; your most important professional relationship.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
art director's notesEnglish
The written or spoken change requests that come back on professional work — the normal mechanism of the trade, not a verdict on the artist.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
The written or spoken change requests that come back on professional work — the normal mechanism of the trade, not a verdict on the artist.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
art editorEnglish
The magazine or publisher staff member who chose and hired illustrators, assigned stories and approved sketches — the ancestor of today's art director.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
The magazine or publisher staff member who chose and hired illustrators, assigned stories and approved sketches — the ancestor of today's art director.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
art showEnglish
A time to hang up artwork so other people can come and enjoy it.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade K)
A time to hang up artwork so other people can come and enjoy it.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade K)
artist statementEnglish
A few sentences in which the artist tells about the work.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2)
A few sentences in which the artist tells about the work.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2)
artist’s statementEnglish
A short piece of writing in which an artist explains his or her work, aims and methods.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8)
A short piece of writing in which an artist explains his or her work, aims and methods.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8)
ascender / descenderEnglish
The stroke of b, d, h, k, l rising above the x-height; the tail of g, j, p, q, y dropping below the baseline.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
The stroke of b, d, h, k, l rising above the x-height; the tail of g, j, p, q, y dropping below the baseline.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
ascender and descenderEnglish
The parts of letters that rise above the x-height (b, d, h) or drop below the line (g, p, y).
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 3.3 (Ages 10–13)
The parts of letters that rise above the x-height (b, d, h) or drop below the line (g, p, y).
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 3.3 (Ages 10–13)
aspect ratioEnglish
The proportion of width to height, written like 16:9 or 4:5. Height follows from width: a 16:9 frame 1280 wide is 1280 \times 9/16 = 720 tall.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · +2 more
The proportion of width to height, written like 16:9 or 4:5. Height follows from width: a 16:9 frame 1280 wide is 1280 \times 9/16 = 720 tall.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · +2 more
ASTM and Blue Wool ratingsEnglish
Standard lightfastness ratings printed on good paint tubes: ASTM I is excellent and II very good; on the Blue Wool Scale, 8 is the most lightfast and 1 the least.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
Standard lightfastness ratings printed on good paint tubes: ASTM I is excellent and II very good; on the Blue Wool Scale, 8 is the most lightfast and 1 the least.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
ASTM ratingEnglish
A lightfastness rating printed on many artist paints: I is excellent and II is very good; III or lower will fade.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5)
A lightfastness rating printed on many artist paints: I is excellent and II is very good; III or lower will fade.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5)
asymmetrical balanceEnglish
Balance where the two sides are different but still feel equal in weight.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8)
Balance where the two sides are different but still feel equal in weight.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8)
atmosphereEnglish
The air around the earth, with its tiny bits of water and dust.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
The air around the earth, with its tiny bits of water and dust.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
atmospheric perspectiveEnglish
Showing distance by making faraway things paler, bluer, softer and less detailed (also called aerial perspective).
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 5) · +3 more
Showing distance by making faraway things paler, bluer, softer and less detailed (also called aerial perspective).
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 5) · +3 more
B
B pencilEnglish
A soft pencil with more graphite; it makes dark, rich marks. 6B is softer than 2B.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3)
A soft pencil with more graphite; it makes dark, rich marks. 6B is softer than 2B.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3)
backgroundEnglish
The back part of a picture; the things that look farthest away, like the sky and far hills.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
The back part of a picture; the things that look farthest away, like the sky and far hills.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
backlightingEnglish
When the light is behind an object, so the side we see is in shadow.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 2)
When the light is behind an object, so the side we see is in shadow.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 2)
balanceEnglish
How the parts of a picture are arranged so it feels steady, not tipping to one side.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
How the parts of a picture are arranged so it feels steady, not tipping to one side.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
banner adEnglish
The web's original ad unit. The first ran on HotWired on 27 October 1994; its descendants fund much of the internet, and designing them honestly is part of the trade.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
The web's original ad unit. The first ran on HotWired on 27 October 1994; its descendants fund much of the internet, and designing them honestly is part of the trade.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
barkEnglish
The rough outer skin of a tree trunk and branches.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade K) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
The rough outer skin of a tree trunk and branches.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade K) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
BaroqueEnglish
The style of European art from about 1600 to 1750, known for drama, movement and strong light.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 7)
The style of European art from about 1600 to 1750, known for drama, movement and strong light.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 7)
barrelEnglish
The large, rounded middle of an animal’s body between the front and back legs.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Earth Science: Earth Resources and Careers, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8) · +3 more
The large, rounded middle of an animal’s body between the front and back legs.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Earth Science: Earth Resources and Careers, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8) · +3 more
baselineEnglish
The invisible line all letters sit on; the foundation of every measurement in typography.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12) · Geography and History: Why Borders Fall Where They Do, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
The invisible line all letters sit on; the foundation of every measurement in typography.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12) · Geography and History: Why Borders Fall Where They Do, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
baseline gridEnglish
A set of evenly spaced horizontal lines, one leading-increment apart, that the baselines of text sit on so lines align across columns and through the paper.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12)
A set of evenly spaced horizontal lines, one leading-increment apart, that the baselines of text sit on so lines align across columns and through the paper.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12)
basic shapesEnglish
Simple shapes like circles, ovals, rectangles and triangles that can build bigger things.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1)
Simple shapes like circles, ovals, rectangles and triangles that can build bigger things.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1)
behindEnglish
Farther from you. The thing behind is partly hidden.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2)
Farther from you. The thing behind is partly hidden.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2)
Bézier curveEnglish
The standard curve of all vector graphics, defined by two end nodes and their handles; named for Pierre Bézier of Renault.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
The standard curve of all vector graphics, defined by two end nodes and their handles; named for Pierre Bézier of Renault.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
big shapesEnglish
The three to five largest areas in a composition, which carry the design before any details are added.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 7)
The three to five largest areas in a composition, which carry the design before any details are added.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 7)
billable hoursEnglish
Hours actually charged to clients. Even busy freelancers bill only ~60% of working time; the rest goes to finding work, administration, learning and estimating — necessary, but unpaid.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
Hours actually charged to clients. Even busy freelancers bill only ~60% of working time; the rest goes to finding work, administration, learning and estimating — necessary, but unpaid.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
binderEnglish
The sticky part of paint that holds the pigment and glues it to the paper.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
The sticky part of paint that holds the pigment and glues it to the paper.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
binder (in a pencil)English
Fine clay mixed with graphite to hold it together and control its hardness.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6)
Fine clay mixed with graphite to hold it together and control its hardness.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6)
bird’s-eye viewEnglish
A view looking steeply down, as from a tower or airplane; the third vanishing point is far below.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places, Stop 1.8 (Ages 7–9) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · +1 more
A view looking steeply down, as from a tower or airplane; the third vanishing point is far below.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places, Stop 1.8 (Ages 7–9) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · +1 more
bit depthEnglish
How many bits describe each channel of each pixel: 8 bits per channel gives 256 levels, and three channels give 256^3 = 16{,}777{,}216 colors.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
How many bits describe each channel of each pixel: 8 bits per channel gives 256 levels, and three channels give 256^3 = 16{,}777{,}216 colors.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
blackletterEnglish
The dense, angular letter style of medieval manuscripts, which Gutenberg's type imitated; also called textura or gothic.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
The dense, angular letter style of medieval manuscripts, which Gutenberg's type imitated; also called textura or gothic.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
blanket cylinderEnglish
The rubber-covered cylinder that receives the inked image from the plate and lays it on the paper; its softness prints cleanly even on textured stock.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
The rubber-covered cylinder that receives the inked image from the plate and lays it on the paper; its softness prints cleanly even on textured stock.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
bleedEnglish
Artwork extended past the trim line, standardly 1/8 in (0.125 in, about 3 mm), so a slightly off cut never leaves a white sliver.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
Artwork extended past the trim line, standardly 1/8 in (0.125 in, about 3 mm), so a slightly off cut never leaves a white sliver.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
blendEnglish
To mix two colors on the paper so they melt into each other with no hard line.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
To mix two colors on the paper so they melt into each other with no hard line.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
blend modeEnglish
The arithmetic a layer uses against what is below it: normal covers, multiply darkens (like ink glazes), screen lightens (like projected light).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
The arithmetic a layer uses against what is below it: normal covers, multiply darkens (like ink glazes), screen lightens (like projected light).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
blendingEnglish
Smoothing tones together so there are no hard lines between them.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3)
Smoothing tones together so there are no hard lines between them.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3)
blending stumpEnglish
A tightly rolled stick of soft paper, pointed at the ends, used to smooth and blend graphite, charcoal and pastel.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
A tightly rolled stick of soft paper, pointed at the ends, used to smooth and blend graphite, charcoal and pastel.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
blind contourEnglish
A contour drawing made while looking only at the object, never at the paper.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
A contour drawing made while looking only at the object, never at the paper.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
blocking inEnglish
Drawing the big, simple shapes of a subject lightly first, so that size and placement are right before details are added.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 7)
Drawing the big, simple shapes of a subject lightly first, so that size and placement are right before details are added.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 7)
body languageEnglish
What gesture, posture and expression tell us about a person’s feelings.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7) · Grade 2 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · +1 more
What gesture, posture and expression tell us about a person’s feelings.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7) · Grade 2 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · +1 more
body of workEnglish
What a portfolio shows as a whole: range plus consistency. Reviewers read the collection as one argument about what kind of designer you are.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
What a portfolio shows as a whole: range plus consistency. Reviewers read the collection as one argument about what kind of designer you are.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
bold colorEnglish
A strong, bright color that you notice right away.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
A strong, bright color that you notice right away.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
Boolean operationsEnglish
Shape arithmetic: union joins shapes, difference subtracts the top from the bottom, intersection keeps only the overlap.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
Shape arithmetic: union joins shapes, difference subtracts the top from the bottom, intersection keeps only the overlap.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
borderEnglish
A band of design around the edge of something, like a frame.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade K) · Explore Crafts and Making, Stop 2.6 (Ages 7–9) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places, Stop 2.6 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
A band of design around the edge of something, like a frame.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade K) · Explore Crafts and Making, Stop 2.6 (Ages 7–9) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places, Stop 2.6 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
bounce lightEnglish
Another name for reflected light.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5)
Another name for reflected light.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5)
brandEnglish
The reputation attached to a mark: everything people believe and feel about the maker. The designer draws the mark; the company's conduct fills it with meaning.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · Economics & the History of Money, Lesson 3.2 (grade 11–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
The reputation attached to a mark: everything people believe and feel about the maker. The designer draws the mark; the company's conduct fills it with meaning.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · Economics & the History of Money, Lesson 3.2 (grade 11–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
brand guide (brand guidelines)English
The written document of the identity system's rules, from a one-pager for a small shop to a bound manual for a government agency.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The written document of the identity system's rules, from a one-pager for a small shop to a bound manual for a government agency.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
brand paletteEnglish
The named colors of the identity with exact values in every needed system — hex and RGB for screens, CMYK for print (Unit 4.3) — plus rules for how much of each to use.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The named colors of the identity with exact values in every needed system — hex and RGB for screens, CMYK for print (Unit 4.3) — plus rules for how much of each to use.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
brayerEnglish
A small rubber roller used to spread ink evenly on a plate.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
A small rubber roller used to spread ink evenly on a plate.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
breakpointEnglish
A width at which the layout changes — for example, from one column to three at 768 px. Chosen where the content starts to break, not from a list of devices.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12) · Investment Adviser Exam Prep: Series 65, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
A width at which the layout changes — for example, from one column to three at 768 px. Chosen where the content starts to break, not from a list of devices.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12) · Investment Adviser Exam Prep: Series 65, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
briefEnglish
The client's written description of the job: deliverable, size and format, content direction, usage, deadline and fee. If it isn't written, write it back to them yourself.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
The client's written description of the job: deliverable, size and format, content direction, usage, deadline and fee. If it isn't written, write it back to them yourself.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
bristle and sableEnglish
Hog bristle is stiff and springy, used for thick oil paint; sable (from the tail of a weasel-like animal) is soft and holds a fine point, prized for watercolor. Synthetic (nylon) fibers imitate both.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
Hog bristle is stiff and springy, used for thick oil paint; sable (from the tail of a weasel-like animal) is soft and holds a fine point, prized for watercolor. Synthetic (nylon) fibers imitate both.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
bristlesEnglish
The hairs of a brush that hold the paint.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
The hairs of a brush that hold the paint.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
broad-edged penEnglish
A pen with a flat, chisel-shaped tip that makes thick and thin strokes depending on its direction.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+)
A pen with a flat, chisel-shaped tip that makes thick and thin strokes depending on its direction.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+)
broken colorEnglish
Placing separate strokes of different colors side by side so they mix in the viewer’s eye, giving a vibrant, shimmering effect.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
Placing separate strokes of different colors side by side so they mix in the viewer’s eye, giving a vibrant, shimmering effect.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
bronzeEnglish
A metal made mostly of copper and tin, used for casting sculptures.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4)
A metal made mostly of copper and tin, used for casting sculptures.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4)
brow lineEnglish
The horizontal line at the eyebrows, one third of the way down the face from the hairline.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8)
The horizontal line at the eyebrows, one third of the way down the face from the hairline.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8)
browserEnglish
The program (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Edge) that requests a page from a server, reads the HTML and CSS it gets back, and draws — renders — the page on your screen.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 3 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 6.3 (grade 6)
The program (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Edge) that requests a page from a server, reads the HTML and CSS it gets back, and draws — renders — the page on your screen.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 3 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 6.3 (grade 6)
brunailleEnglish
A painting or underpainting done in shades of brown, like grisaille in browns.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 7)
A painting or underpainting done in shades of brown, like grisaille in browns.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 7)
burnishingEnglish
Pressing hard with a light color or white at the end to make the colors smooth and shiny.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 2)
Pressing hard with a light color or white at the end to make the colors smooth and shiny.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 2)
Byzantine styleEnglish
A style of sacred art from the Eastern Roman Empire, with flat, gold backgrounds and graceful, patterned figures.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5)
A style of sacred art from the Eastern Roman Empire, with flat, gold backgrounds and graceful, patterned figures.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5)
C
calligraphyEnglish
Beautiful handwriting, from the Greek for “beautiful writing.”
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+) · +2 more
Beautiful handwriting, from the Greek for “beautiful writing.”
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+) · +2 more
cameEnglish
A grooved strip of lead that holds pieces of stained glass together.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6)
A grooved strip of lead that holds pieces of stained glass together.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6)
camera obscuraEnglish
A dark box or room with a small hole or lens that projects an image of the outside scene onto a surface.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
A dark box or room with a small hole or lens that projects an image of the outside scene onto a surface.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
canon of proportionEnglish
A set of rules for how big each part of the body is compared with the others, often measured in heads.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 7)
A set of rules for how big each part of the body is compared with the others, often measured in heads.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 7)
canvasEnglish
The document's pixel grid, set at creation: width, height, resolution and color model. Everything in Lesson 5.4 about sizing applies here first.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
The document's pixel grid, set at creation: width, height, resolution and color model. Everything in Lesson 5.4 about sizing applies here first.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
cap heightEnglish
The height of a capital letter, the practical measure for how far away type can be read.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
The height of a capital letter, the practical measure for how far away type can be read.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
carbon inkEnglish
Black ink made from soot (lamp black) and a binder such as gum arabic. India ink is a waterproof carbon ink.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4)
Black ink made from soot (lamp black) and a binder such as gum arabic. India ink is a waterproof carbon ink.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4)
case studyEnglish
A portfolio entry told as a story: the brief, the constraints, the process (sketches, rejected directions), the finished work and the result — proof you can think, not just finish.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
A portfolio entry told as a story: the brief, the constraints, the process (sketches, rejected directions), the finished work and the result — proof you can think, not just finish.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
cast drawingEnglish
Drawing from a plaster cast of a sculpture, used in academies to teach light, shadow and proportion.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
Drawing from a plaster cast of a sculpture, used in academies to teach light, shadow and proportion.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
cast shadowEnglish
The shadow an object throws onto the ground or a wall.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
The shadow an object throws onto the ground or a wall.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
category auditEnglish
Collecting the actual colors used by the brands in one market and charting them, so a decision to blend in or stand out is made with evidence.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
Collecting the actual colors used by the brands in one market and charting them, so a decision to blend in or stand out is made with evidence.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
cellulose fiberEnglish
The tiny, tough threads that make up plant cell walls; paper is a mat of these fibers.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6)
The tiny, tough threads that make up plant cell walls; paper is a mat of these fibers.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6)
center lineEnglish
A vertical guideline down the middle of the face, through the nose and mouth.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 6)
A vertical guideline down the middle of the face, through the nose and mouth.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 6)
center of interestEnglish
The most important part of a picture, where the eye goes first.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 2)
The most important part of a picture, where the eye goes first.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 2)
centrally planned buildingEnglish
A building arranged around a central point, such as a round or many-sided temple with a dome.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
A building arranged around a central point, such as a round or many-sided temple with a dome.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
chalk pastelEnglish
A dry, powdery stick of pigment mixed with chalk and a little gum. It smudges easily.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2)
A dry, powdery stick of pigment mixed with chalk and a little gum. It smudges easily.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2)
channelEnglish
One color's worth of data in each pixel. Screen images carry red, green and blue channels; print-ready images carry C, M, Y and K.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Earth Science: The Earth's Surface, Lesson 9.2 (grade 2) · Explore Great Battles, Stop 3.1 (Ages 7–9)
One color's worth of data in each pixel. Screen images carry red, green and blue channels; print-ready images carry C, M, Y and K.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Earth Science: The Earth's Surface, Lesson 9.2 (grade 2) · Explore Great Battles, Stop 3.1 (Ages 7–9)
charcoalEnglish
The black, mostly carbon material left when wood is heated with very little air, so it chars instead of burning to ash.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6) · Grade 6 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.1 (grade 6)
The black, mostly carbon material left when wood is heated with very little air, so it chars instead of burning to ash.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6) · Grade 6 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.1 (grade 6)
chiaroscuroEnglish
An Italian word (say “kee-ar-oh-SKOOR-oh”) meaning “light-dark”: strong contrast between light and shadow in a picture.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
An Italian word (say “kee-ar-oh-SKOOR-oh”) meaning “light-dark”: strong contrast between light and shadow in a picture.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
chromaEnglish
How strong or pure a color is compared with a gray of the same value; also called intensity or saturation. Low chroma colors are grayed; high chroma colors are vivid.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 6)
How strong or pure a color is compared with a gray of the same value; also called intensity or saturation. Low chroma colors are grayed; high chroma colors are vivid.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 6)
chroma (saturation)English
How intense or muted a color is, from vivid down to gray; Munsell's word is chroma, digital pickers usually say saturation.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12)
How intense or muted a color is, from vivid down to gray; Munsell's word is chroma, digital pickers usually say saturation.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12)
circleEnglish
A perfectly round shape with no corners, like a coin or the full moon.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade K) · Grade 5 Earth Science: The Sky: Sun, Moon and Stars, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5) · Geometry, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–10) · +2 more
A perfectly round shape with no corners, like a coin or the full moon.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade K) · Grade 5 Earth Science: The Sky: Sun, Moon and Stars, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5) · Geometry, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–10) · +2 more
clayEnglish
A soft, smooth kind of earth. It bends and squishes when wet and gets hard when it dries.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4) · +3 more
A soft, smooth kind of earth. It bends and squishes when wet and gets hard when it dries.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4) · +3 more
clear spaceEnglish
The protected empty zone around the mark that nothing may enter, usually defined by a unit taken from the mark itself (a letter height, the symbol's width).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The protected empty zone around the mark that nothing may enter, usually defined by a unit taken from the mark itself (a letter height, the symbol's width).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
client briefEnglish
The written description of a job: who the client is, what must be made, for whom, by when, and within what limits.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
The written description of a job: who the client is, what must be made, for whom, by when, and within what limits.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
CMYK (process color)English
The four printing inks: cyan, magenta, yellow and key (black), printed as layered tiny dot screens; each channel is given as a percentage of ink coverage.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
The four printing inks: cyan, magenta, yellow and key (black), printed as layered tiny dot screens; each channel is given as a percentage of ink coverage.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
coilEnglish
A long rope or snake of clay.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 4.4 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
A long rope or snake of clay.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 4.4 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
collageEnglish
A picture made by gluing pieces of paper or other things onto a background.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade K) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade K)
A picture made by gluing pieces of paper or other things onto a background.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade K) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade K)
colorEnglish
What our eyes see when light bounces off things: red, blue, green and all the rest.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade K)
What our eyes see when light bounces off things: red, blue, green and all the rest.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade K)
color checkEnglish
Holding a dab of mixed paint on a palette knife or card next to the real object to compare them directly.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8)
Holding a dab of mixed paint on a palette knife or card next to the real object to compare them directly.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8)
color conventionEnglish
A learned association between colors and categories in a market: blue for banks and tech, green for garden and organic, red for food and urgency; conventions are habits of buyers, not laws of nature.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
A learned association between colors and categories in a market: blue for banks and tech, green for garden and organic, red for food and urgency; conventions are habits of buyers, not laws of nature.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
color harmonyEnglish
The feeling that the colors in a picture belong together.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
The feeling that the colors in a picture belong together.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
color keyEnglish
The overall color of the light in a painting, such as the warm gold of late afternoon or the cool gray of an overcast day.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8)
The overall color of the light in a painting, such as the warm gold of late afternoon or the cool gray of an overcast day.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8)
color noteEnglish
A quick, small painting that records the main colors and values of a scene, to be used later as reference.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 7)
A quick, small painting that records the main colors and values of a scene, to be used later as reference.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 7)
color recipeEnglish
Red + yellow = orange. Yellow + blue = green. Blue + red = purple.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade K)
Red + yellow = orange. Yellow + blue = green. Blue + red = purple.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade K)
color schemeEnglish
A plan for which colors to use in an artwork.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
A plan for which colors to use in an artwork.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
color temperatureEnglish
Whether a color feels warm (like fire and sun) or cool (like water, ice and shade).
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7) · +2 more
Whether a color feels warm (like fire and sun) or cool (like water, ice and shade).
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7) · +2 more
color vision deficiency (CVD)English
Reduced ability to distinguish certain hues, most commonly red from green; affects about 8% of men and about 0.5% of women of Northern European descent.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
Reduced ability to distinguish certain hues, most commonly red from green; affects about 8% of men and about 0.5% of women of Northern European descent.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
color wheelEnglish
A circle that shows the colors in rainbow order, so we can see how they go together.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · +2 more
A circle that shows the colors in rainbow order, so we can see how they go together.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · +2 more
colored pencilEnglish
A stick of pigment mixed with wax or oil and a little clay, held inside a wooden case.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 2)
A stick of pigment mixed with wax or oil and a little clay, held inside a wooden case.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 2)
columnEnglish
A vertical band of the grid that text and images are poured into. More columns give a layout more possible positions, not more clutter.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Earth Science: The Earth's Surface, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2) · +3 more
A vertical band of the grid that text and images are poured into. More columns give a layout more possible positions, not more clutter.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Earth Science: The Earth's Surface, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2) · +3 more
combination markEnglish
Symbol plus wordmark designed to work together and apart; the most common identity package today.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
Symbol plus wordmark designed to work together and apart; the most common identity package today.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
comparative measurementEnglish
Checking a drawing by comparing one length or angle to another, such as the width of a hand to its length.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
Checking a drawing by comparing one length or angle to another, such as the width of a hand to its length.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
competitor auditEnglish
Research into the marks of similar businesses so your design can be deliberately different — distinctiveness is relative to the field it must stand out in.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
Research into the marks of similar businesses so your design can be deliberately different — distinctiveness is relative to the field it must stand out in.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
complementaryEnglish
Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel, such as blue and orange; they make each other look brighter side by side.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel, such as blue and orange; they make each other look brighter side by side.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
complementary colorsEnglish
Two colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, like red and green.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · +3 more
Two colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, like red and green.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · +3 more
complementary schemeEnglish
Using a pair of opposite colors, such as blue and orange, often with one as the main color and the other as an accent.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
Using a pair of opposite colors, such as blue and orange, often with one as the main color and the other as an accent.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
composite viewEnglish
Showing each part of a subject from its most recognizable angle in one image: a head in profile with a front-view eye, shoulders from the front, legs from the side.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6)
Showing each part of a subject from its most recognizable angle in one image: a head in profile with a front-view eye, shoulders from the front, legs from the side.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6)
compressed charcoalEnglish
Powdered charcoal pressed with a binder into dense sticks that make rich black marks.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6)
Powdered charcoal pressed with a binder into dense sticks that make rich black marks.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6)
concept artEnglish
Working design art for games, film and animation — characters, environments, props — made to guide a production team, not to be published as-is.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
Working design art for games, film and animation — characters, environments, props — made to guide a production team, not to be published as-is.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
condition reportEnglish
A written and illustrated record of a work’s state: its materials, damage and any past repairs.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
A written and illustrated record of a work’s state: its materials, damage and any past repairs.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
coneEnglish
A form with a round bottom that comes to a point, like an ice-cream cone.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Life Science: Classification, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
A form with a round bottom that comes to a point, like an ice-cream cone.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Life Science: Classification, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
conservationEnglish
Protecting and stabilizing a work of art so that it lasts, with as little change as possible.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8) · Insurance Agent Exam Prep: Life, Health, Property & Casualty, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12) · Explore Animals, Stop 1.10 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
Protecting and stabilizing a work of art so that it lasts, with as little change as possible.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8) · Insurance Agent Exam Prep: Life, Health, Property & Casualty, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12) · Explore Animals, Stop 1.10 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
consistencyEnglish
The ability to make many pieces that clearly belong together — what art directors actually buy when they 'buy a style.'
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · +2 more
The ability to make many pieces that clearly belong together — what art directors actually buy when they 'buy a style.'
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · +2 more
constructionEnglish
Building a drawing from simple shapes and forms before adding details.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Geometry, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–10)
Building a drawing from simple shapes and forms before adding details.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Geometry, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–10)
construction gridEnglish
The guides, circles and consistent radii used to tidy a chosen mark: equal weights, aligned terminals, deliberate curves.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
The guides, circles and consistent radii used to tidy a chosen mark: equal weights, aligned terminals, deliberate curves.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
continuing educationEnglish
The career-long habit of re-learning the toolchain every few years while the foundations — drawing, composition, type, color — stay fixed. The tools of this course will change; the course will not.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
The career-long habit of re-learning the toolchain every few years while the foundations — drawing, composition, type, color — stay fixed. The tools of this course will change; the course will not.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
continuous lineEnglish
A line drawn without lifting the pencil from the paper.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3)
A line drawn without lifting the pencil from the paper.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3)
contour drawingEnglish
A slow line drawing that follows the subject's real edges and surface edges, eye and hand moving together.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
A slow line drawing that follows the subject's real edges and surface edges, eye and hand moving together.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
contour hatchingEnglish
Hatching lines that curve around a form, following its surface, to help it look round.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4)
Hatching lines that curve around a form, following its surface, to help it look round.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4)
contour lineEnglish
A line that follows the outside edge of a thing, like a fence around a yard.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
A line that follows the outside edge of a thing, like a fence around a yard.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
contrappostoEnglish
A natural standing pose with weight on one leg, so the hips and shoulders tilt in opposite directions.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8)
A natural standing pose with weight on one leg, so the hips and shoulders tilt in opposite directions.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8)
contrastEnglish
A big difference between two things that makes them stand out.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3) · +3 more
A big difference between two things that makes them stand out.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3) · +3 more
contrast principleEnglish
Pair typefaces that are clearly different (different classifications, different jobs) or do not pair at all; near-twins clash like two radios tuned a half-station apart.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
Pair typefaces that are clearly different (different classifications, different jobs) or do not pair at all; near-twins clash like two radios tuned a half-station apart.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
contrast ratioEnglish
The WCAG comparison of two luminances, (L_1 + 0.05)/(L_2 + 0.05), running from 1:1 (identical) to 21:1 (black on white).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
The WCAG comparison of two luminances, (L_1 + 0.05)/(L_2 + 0.05), running from 1:1 (identical) to 21:1 (black on white).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
converging linesEnglish
Lines that come closer together as they go back toward a vanishing point.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5)
Lines that come closer together as they go back toward a vanishing point.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5)
cool colorsEnglish
Green, blue and purple: the colors of water, sky, shade and grass.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade K)
Green, blue and purple: the colors of water, sky, shade and grass.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade K)
copyrightEnglish
The exclusive legal right to copy, distribute, display and make derivatives of an original creative work. Under U.S. law it begins automatically the moment the work is fixed in tangible form — drawn, saved, recorded.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4)
The exclusive legal right to copy, distribute, display and make derivatives of an original creative work. Under U.S. law it begins automatically the moment the work is fixed in tangible form — drawn, saved, recorded.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4)
core shadowEnglish
The darkest band of the form shadow on a round object, where it turns most fully away from the light.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4) · +3 more
The darkest band of the form shadow on a round object, where it turns most fully away from the light.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4) · +3 more
cornerEnglish
The point where two sides of a shape meet.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade K) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3–5)
The point where two sides of a shape meet.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade K) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3–5)
costumed modelEnglish
A clothed, often historically dressed model — the standard working reference of the Pyle school and of this course.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
A clothed, often historically dressed model — the standard working reference of the Pyle school and of this course.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
counterEnglish
The enclosed or partly enclosed empty space inside a letterform — the hole in an o, the trapped air of an e — a preview of Unit 3.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 1.2 (grade 1) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
The enclosed or partly enclosed empty space inside a letterform — the hole in an o, the trapped air of an e — a preview of Unit 3.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 1.2 (grade 1) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
counter and apertureEnglish
The enclosed or partly enclosed space inside a letter (the hole in o, the opening of c); open apertures generally read better at small sizes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
The enclosed or partly enclosed space inside a letter (the hole in o, the opening of c); open apertures generally read better at small sizes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
court painterEnglish
An artist employed by a king or noble household to paint portraits and decorate palaces.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7)
An artist employed by a king or noble household to paint portraits and decorate palaces.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7)
critiqueEnglish
A careful, reasoned discussion of a work of art: what it is, how it works, what it means and how well it succeeds.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 5.2 (grade 11)
A careful, reasoned discussion of a work of art: what it is, how it works, what it means and how well it succeeds.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 5.2 (grade 11)
croppingEnglish
Deciding where the edges of the picture cut off the scene.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 7)
Deciding where the edges of the picture cut off the scene.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 7)
cross-hatchingEnglish
Shading made by laying a second set of parallel lines across the first, and sometimes a third and fourth.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4)
Shading made by laying a second set of parallel lines across the first, and sometimes a third and fourth.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4)
CSSEnglish
Cascading Style Sheets: the file that holds a page's appearance — fonts, sizes, colors, spacing, layout — kept separate from the HTML content.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
Cascading Style Sheets: the file that holds a page's appearance — fonts, sizes, colors, spacing, layout — kept separate from the HTML content.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
cubeEnglish
A form with six square faces, like a block or a die.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6–8)
A form with six square faces, like a block or a die.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6–8)
cumulusEnglish
Puffy, heaped clouds with flat bottoms and rounded tops, which show clear light and shadow sides.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 4.1 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · +1 more
Puffy, heaped clouds with flat bottoms and rounded tops, which show clear light and shadow sides.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 4.1 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · +1 more
curationEnglish
Choosing and ordering work deliberately. The curator's rule: you are judged by your weakest piece, so ten strong pieces beat thirty mixed ones every time.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 6.4 (grade 12)
Choosing and ordering work deliberately. The curator's rule: you are judged by your weakest piece, so ten strong pieces beat thirty mixed ones every time.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 6.4 (grade 12)
curlEnglish
A line that bends around and back on itself, like the top of a wave.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade K)
A line that bends around and back on itself, like the top of a wave.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade K)
curved lineEnglish
A line that bends smoothly, like a rainbow or a smile.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade K)
A line that bends smoothly, like a rainbow or a smile.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade K)
cylinderEnglish
A form like a tube or a can, round at both ends.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4) · +1 more
A form like a tube or a can, round at both ends.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4) · +1 more
D
dark colorEnglish
A color made deeper by adding black, like navy blue or dark green. (Artists call it a shade.)
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade K)
A color made deeper by adding black, like navy blue or dark green. (Artists call it a shade.)
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade K)
day rateEnglish
The price of a full working day of the designer's time — hourly rate × 8 in this course — commonly quoted for on-site or open-ended work.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
The price of a full working day of the designer's time — hourly rate × 8 in this course — commonly quoted for on-site or open-ended work.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
deliberate practiceEnglish
Practice aimed at a specific weakness with feedback — drawing fifty hands and comparing them against the model, not doodling the same comfortable faces. Minutes of it outweigh hours of repetition.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
Practice aimed at a specific weakness with feedback — drawing fifty hands and comparing them against the model, not doodling the same comfortable faces. Minutes of it outweigh hours of repetition.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
deliverablesEnglish
Exactly what files you hand over at the end — format, resolution, color mode, naming — matching the spec in the brief.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
Exactly what files you hand over at the end — format, resolution, color mode, naming — matching the spec in the brief.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
descreen / despeckleEnglish
Cleanup filters: despeckle removes scanner dust and paper noise; descreen removes halftone patterns when scanning printed sources.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
Cleanup filters: despeckle removes scanner dust and paper noise; descreen removes halftone patterns when scanning printed sources.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
describeEnglish
Step 1: list what you see, only facts, as if to someone who cannot see the picture.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 9.1 (grade 1)
Step 1: list what you see, only facts, as if to someone who cannot see the picture.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 9.1 (grade 1)
describe–analyze–interpret–judgeEnglish
The four-step critique order: what is literally there; how its elements and principles work; what it communicates; and only then, how well it succeeds.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
The four-step critique order: what is literally there; how its elements and principles work; what it communicates; and only then, how well it succeeds.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
descriptionEnglish
The first step: naming what you can see, without opinion.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Life Science: Plants and Animals Together, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3)
The first step: naming what you can see, without opinion.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Life Science: Plants and Animals Together, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3)
design briefEnglish
The written foundation of a logo job: what the business does and believes, who its customers are, what feeling the mark must carry, where it will live, and what already exists.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · Textile Science & Clothing Construction, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
The written foundation of a logo job: what the business does and believes, who its customers are, what feeling the mark must carry, where it will live, and what already exists.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · Textile Science & Clothing Construction, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
design handoffEnglish
Delivering a design to developers: the organized file, exported assets, measurements and specs, plus written notes on behavior the pictures cannot show.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
Delivering a design to developers: the organized file, exported assets, measurements and specs, plus written notes on behavior the pictures cannot show.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
design tokensEnglish
The named values of a design system — color/primary, spacing/md, font/heading — shared between the design file and the code so both sides speak one vocabulary.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
The named values of a design system — color/primary, spacing/md, font/heading — shared between the design file and the code so both sides speak one vocabulary.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
detailEnglish
A small part added last, like eyes, ears or a tail.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · +2 more
A small part added last, like eyes, ears or a tail.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · +2 more
detail studyEnglish
A small, close-up drawing of one part of a subject, such as the edge of a leaf or the eye of a bird.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5)
A small, close-up drawing of one part of a subject, such as the edge of a leaf or the eye of a bird.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5)
deuteranomaly / protanopiaEnglish
The common forms of red-green CVD: weakened green sensitivity (most common) and missing red sensitivity; both collapse reds, greens, oranges and browns toward one another.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
The common forms of red-green CVD: weakened green sensitivity (most common) and missing red sensitivity; both collapse reds, greens, oranges and browns toward one another.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
diagonalEnglish
Slanting, like a slide. Diagonal lines feel like they are moving.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Geometry, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–10)
Slanting, like a slide. Diagonal lines feel like they are moving.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Geometry, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–10)
diagonal lineEnglish
A line that leans or slants, like a slide or falling rain.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 1)
A line that leans or slants, like a slide or falling rain.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 1)
Didone (modern)English
The high-contrast, vertical-axis, hairline-serif style of Didot and Bodoni, from the 1780s–90s.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
The high-contrast, vertical-axis, hairline-serif style of Didot and Bodoni, from the 1780s–90s.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
differentiationEnglish
Deliberately breaking a category's color convention so the brand is findable at a glance among rivals; powerful, and only safe when done knowingly.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
Deliberately breaking a category's color convention so the brand is findable at a glance among rivals; powerful, and only safe when done knowingly.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
diminutionEnglish
The way objects of the same size look smaller and closer together the farther away they are.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 7)
The way objects of the same size look smaller and closer together the farther away they are.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 7)
directionEnglish
One of the few (usually three) distinct concepts chosen from the sketch pages to refine — different ideas, not three versions of one idea.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · +1 more
One of the few (usually three) distinct concepts chosen from the sketch pages to refine — different ideas, not three versions of one idea.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · +1 more
direction of lightEnglish
The way the light travels, from the light source toward the objects.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 5)
The way the light travels, from the light source toward the objects.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 5)
directional brushworkEnglish
Brushstrokes that follow the form or movement of a subject, as in Van Gogh’s swirling skies and flame-like cypresses.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
Brushstrokes that follow the form or movement of a subject, as in Van Gogh’s swirling skies and flame-like cypresses.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
disclosureEnglish
Telling the client plainly what tools and sources a work involved — AI assistance included. The professional default, and a contractual duty when the client's policy addresses it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Economics & the History of Money, Lesson 8.4 (grade 11–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
Telling the client plainly what tools and sources a work involved — AI assistance included. The professional default, and a contractual duty when the client's policy addresses it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Economics & the History of Money, Lesson 8.4 (grade 11–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
display face / text faceEnglish
A face designed for large sizes and short bursts (headlines, posters) versus one designed to be read comfortably for pages at 9–12 pt.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
A face designed for large sizes and short bursts (headlines, posters) versus one designed to be read comfortably for pages at 9–12 pt.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
display typeEnglish
Type designed for large sizes and short texts: posters, headlines, packaging; often higher contrast, tighter spacing and stronger personality than text faces.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
Type designed for large sizes and short texts: posters, headlines, packaging; often higher contrast, tighter spacing and stronger personality than text faces.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
distanceEnglish
How far away something is.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade K) · +2 more
How far away something is.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade K) · +2 more
distinctivenessEnglish
How strongly a mark can identify one source: invented and arbitrary marks are strong; descriptive ones are weak; generic words cannot be trademarks at all.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
How strongly a mark can identify one source: invented and arbitrary marks are strong; descriptive ones are weak; generic words cannot be trademarks at all.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
dominanceEnglish
Letting one color or temperature take up most of a picture, with others as smaller accents.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
Letting one color or temperature take up most of a picture, with others as smaller accents.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
dominant colorEnglish
The color that covers the most area and sets the overall mood.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
The color that covers the most area and sets the overall mood.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
don'ts pageEnglish
The gallery of forbidden abuses — stretching, recoloring, shadowing, crowding, busy backgrounds — shown crossed out, because people copy pictures faster than they read rules.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The gallery of forbidden abuses — stretching, recoloring, shadowing, crowding, busy backgrounds — shown crossed out, because people copy pictures faster than they read rules.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
draperyEnglish
Cloth arranged in folds, in a still life or as clothing on a figure.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
Cloth arranged in folds, in a still life or as clothing on a figure.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
drawing from lifeEnglish
Making a drawing of a real object that is in front of you, rather than from a photo or from memory.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6)
Making a drawing of a real object that is in front of you, rather than from a photo or from memory.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6)
drawn textureEnglish
Texture that only looks real because of lines and marks; the paper itself is still smooth. Also called implied texture.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade K)
Texture that only looks real because of lines and marks; the paper itself is still smooth. Also called implied texture.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade K)
drop foldEnglish
Folds that fall in a curved, swinging shape when cloth hangs between two points (also called a diaper fold or swag).
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
Folds that fall in a curved, swinging shape when cloth hangs between two points (also called a diaper fold or swag).
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
dry brushEnglish
Dragging a brush with very little paint over the surface so the color catches only on the high points, creating texture.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
Dragging a brush with very little paint over the surface so the color catches only on the high points, creating texture.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
dummyEnglish
A hand-made mock-up of the whole book with sketches in place, used to test pacing and page turns before any final art is painted.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12)
A hand-made mock-up of the whole book with sketches in place, used to test pacing and page turns before any final art is painted.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12)
dyeEnglish
A coloring substance that dissolves in liquid, used in most markers and inks; dyes usually fade faster than pigments.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5)
A coloring substance that dissolves in liquid, used in most markers and inks; dyes usually fade faster than pigments.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5)
E
earth colorsEnglish
Browns, tans and dull reds and yellows like the colors of soil and rock.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8)
Browns, tans and dull reds and yellows like the colors of soil and rock.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8)
earth pigmentEnglish
A pigment made from colored clay or minerals dug from the ground, such as yellow ochre or burnt umber.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6)
A pigment made from colored clay or minerals dug from the ground, such as yellow ochre or burnt umber.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6)
earth pigmentsEnglish
Pigments made from colored clay, soil and rock, mainly ochres, siennas, umbers and green earth.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7)
Pigments made from colored clay, soil and rock, mainly ochres, siennas, umbers and green earth.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7)
edgeEnglish
The place where one shape or value meets another. In drawing, an edge is not the same as a line.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
The place where one shape or value meets another. In drawing, an edge is not the same as a line.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
editionEnglish
A set of matching prints from the same plate, each numbered, such as 1/4, 2/4, 3/4, 4/4.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
A set of matching prints from the same plate, each numbered, such as 1/4, 2/4, 3/4, 4/4.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
editorial illustrationEnglish
Art commissioned to accompany an article or opinion piece in a magazine, newspaper or website; it must capture an idea, fast, at small size.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
Art commissioned to accompany an article or opinion piece in a magazine, newspaper or website; it must capture an idea, fast, at small size.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
egg temperaEnglish
Paint made with egg yolk as the binder, used by painters before oil paint.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
Paint made with egg yolk as the binder, used by painters before oil paint.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
Egyptian blueEnglish
A blue pigment made by heating sand, copper and lime together; one of the first man-made pigments in history.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6)
A blue pigment made by heating sand, copper and lime together; one of the first man-made pigments in history.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6)
elementEnglish
A raw ingredient an image is built from. This course uses the working five: line, shape, value, texture and space.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
A raw ingredient an image is built from. This course uses the working five: line, shape, value, texture and space.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
element of artEnglish
One of the basic visual ingredients every artwork is made of: line, shape, form, value, color, texture, space.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6)
One of the basic visual ingredients every artwork is made of: line, shape, form, value, color, texture, space.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6)
elements of artEnglish
The building blocks of art: line, shape, form, color, value, texture and space.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8)
The building blocks of art: line, shape, form, color, value, texture and space.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8)
elevationEnglish
An architect’s flat drawing of one side of a building, without perspective.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
An architect’s flat drawing of one side of a building, without perspective.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
emEnglish
A square as wide as the type size; the unit letters are designed on. At 12 pt type, one em is 12 pt.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
A square as wide as the type size; the unit letters are designed on. At 12 pt type, one em is 12 pt.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
em (relative)English
A unit equal to the current type size: at 14 px text, 1 em is 14 px and 1.5 em is 21 px; used so layouts scale when the base size changes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
A unit equal to the current type size: at 14 px text, 1 em is 14 px and 1.5 em is 21 px; used so layouts scale when the base size changes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
emblemEnglish
Name and symbol locked inside one container shape, like a badge or seal — dignified, but the least flexible at small sizes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
Name and symbol locked inside one container shape, like a badge or seal — dignified, but the least flexible at small sizes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
emphasisEnglish
Making one part of an artwork stand out as the most important.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
Making one part of an artwork stand out as the most important.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
emulsionEnglish
A mixture of oily and watery liquids held together, like egg yolk, milk or mayonnaise.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8) · Culinary Arts & Meal Planning, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
A mixture of oily and watery liquids held together, like egg yolk, milk or mayonnaise.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8) · Culinary Arts & Meal Planning, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
encausticEnglish
Painting with pigment mixed into hot, melted beeswax.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 6)
Painting with pigment mixed into hot, melted beeswax.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 6)
engravingEnglish
A print made from lines cut into a metal plate; old engravers shaded everything with hatching.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 3) · Explore Animals · Ranger, Stop 2.9 (Ages 10–13) · Explore Animals, Stop 2.9 (Ages 7–9)
A print made from lines cut into a metal plate; old engravers shaded everything with hatching.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 3) · Explore Animals · Ranger, Stop 2.9 (Ages 10–13) · Explore Animals, Stop 2.9 (Ages 7–9)
exhibitionEnglish
An art show where artwork is hung for people to see.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2)
An art show where artwork is hung for people to see.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2)
exitEnglish
A strong line that runs straight out of the edge of the picture, carrying the eye away.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
A strong line that runs straight out of the edge of the picture, carrying the eye away.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
expressive lineEnglish
A line that shows a feeling, such as a calm wavy line or an excited zigzag.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
A line that shows a feeling, such as a calm wavy line or an excited zigzag.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
eye levelEnglish
The height of your eyes; everything above it you look up at, and everything below it you look down on.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
The height of your eyes; everything above it you look up at, and everything below it you look down on.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
eye level (horizon line)English
A horizontal line at the height of the viewer’s eyes; in perspective, the horizon is always at eye level.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8)
A horizontal line at the height of the viewer’s eyes; in perspective, the horizon is always at eye level.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8)
eye lineEnglish
A horizontal guideline about halfway down the head where the eyes sit.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 6)
A horizontal guideline about halfway down the head where the eyes sit.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 6)
eye pathEnglish
The route the viewer’s eye travels through a picture.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
The route the viewer’s eye travels through a picture.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
eye socketEnglish
The hollow under the brow in which the eye sits; it usually holds a shadow when light comes from above.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8)
The hollow under the brow in which the eye sits; it usually holds a shadow when light comes from above.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8)
eye-level ruleEnglish
On flat ground, the heads of standing people about your height line up on the horizon line, no matter how near or far they are.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 6)
On flat ground, the heads of standing people about your height line up on the horizon line, no matter how near or far they are.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 6)
F
facial proportionsEnglish
The usual positions of the features: eyes halfway down the head, the face divided into three equal parts from hairline to brow, brow to nose, and nose to chin.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 7)
The usual positions of the features: eyes halfway down the head, the face divided into three equal parts from hairline to brow, brow to nose, and nose to chin.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 7)
facial thirdsEnglish
The equal thirds of the face: hairline to brow, brow to base of nose, nose to chin.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
The equal thirds of the face: hairline to brow, brow to base of nose, nose to chin.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
falloffEnglish
The way light gets dimmer the farther it travels from a small source.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6)
The way light gets dimmer the farther it travels from a small source.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6)
farEnglish
A long way from you. Far things look small.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade K)
A long way from you. Far things look small.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade K)
feathersEnglish
The light, soft covering of birds.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade K) · Explore Horses and Ponies, Stop 1.4 (Ages 7–9)
The light, soft covering of birds.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade K) · Explore Horses and Ponies, Stop 1.4 (Ages 7–9)
featureEnglish
A part of the face, such as an eye, the nose, the mouth or an ear.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Life Science: Classification, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4)
A part of the face, such as an eye, the nose, the mouth or an ear.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Life Science: Classification, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4)
featuresEnglish
The parts of the face: eyes, nose, mouth, ears and eyebrows.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 5) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade K)
The parts of the face: eyes, nose, mouth, ears and eyebrows.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 5) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade K)
feedback translationEnglish
Converting a client's vague reaction ('make it pop,' 'too plain') into the design variable actually at issue — contrast, size, color, weight — before touching anything.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
Converting a client's vague reaction ('make it pop,' 'too plain') into the design variable actually at issue — contrast, size, color, weight — before touching anything.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
ferruleEnglish
The metal band that holds the bristles onto the handle.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
The metal band that holds the bristles onto the handle.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
fiberEnglish
A tiny thread, like the threads in wood, cotton or plant bark. Paper is made of fibers.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Culinary Arts & Meal Planning, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
A tiny thread, like the threads in wood, cotton or plant bark. Paper is made of fibers.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Culinary Arts & Meal Planning, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
fibersEnglish
Tiny threads from wood, cotton or other plants that are tangled and pressed together to make paper.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade K)
Tiny threads from wood, cotton or other plants that are tangled and pressed together to make paper.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade K)
Fibonacci sequenceEnglish
The numbers 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21… in which each number is the sum of the two before; neighboring numbers approach the golden ratio.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6)
The numbers 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21… in which each number is the sum of the two before; neighboring numbers approach the golden ratio.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6)
figure–groundEnglish
The eye's sorting of a picture into subject (figure) and background (ground); designers can stabilize it, or deliberately flip it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
The eye's sorting of a picture into subject (figure) and background (ground); designers can stabilize it, or deliberately flip it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
figure–ground reversalEnglish
A design where the ground reads as a second figure — the arrow hidden between letterforms, the profile in a goblet's sides.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
A design where the ground reads as a second figure — the arrow hidden between letterforms, the profile in a goblet's sides.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
filbertEnglish
A flat brush with a rounded, oval tip, for soft-edged strokes and blending.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
A flat brush with a rounded, oval tip, for soft-edged strokes and blending.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7)
filbert brushEnglish
A flat brush with a rounded tip, good for soft edges, petals and leaves.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
A flat brush with a rounded tip, good for soft edges, petals and leaves.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
file packageEnglish
The complete delivery: vector masters (SVG, PDF), PNGs at stated sizes, one-color and reversed versions, favicon, the brand one-pager, and a read-me — named so a stranger can navigate them.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
The complete delivery: vector masters (SVG, PDF), PNGs at stated sizes, one-color and reversed versions, favicon, the brand one-pager, and a read-me — named so a stranger can navigate them.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
fill and strokeEnglish
A path's interior color (fill) and its outline (stroke, with a width). A stroke's width is a property, not drawn pixels, so it can change at any time.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
A path's interior color (fill) and its outline (stroke, with a width). A stroke's width is a property, not drawn pixels, so it can change at any time.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
fill the pageEnglish
Use all the paper, from edge to edge, so there are no big empty spaces.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade K)
Use all the paper, from edge to edge, so there are no big empty spaces.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade K)
Fitts's lawEnglish
Paul Fitts's 1954 finding that the time to hit a target grows with distance and shrinks with target size. Big, close targets are fast; small, far ones are slow and error-prone.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
Paul Fitts's 1954 finding that the time to hit a target grows with distance and shrinks with target size. Big, close targets are fast; small, far ones are slow and error-prone.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
fixativeEnglish
A thin resin dissolved in a fast-drying solvent and sprayed as a mist; when the solvent evaporates, the resin glues loose particles to the paper.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
A thin resin dissolved in a fast-drying solvent and sprayed as a mist; when the solvent evaporates, the resin glues loose particles to the paper.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
flatEnglish
A brush with long hairs cut square, for broad strokes, crisp edges and covering areas.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7) · Kindergarten Geography: God Made the Earth: My First Maps, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
A brush with long hairs cut square, for broad strokes, crisp edges and covering areas.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7) · Kindergarten Geography: God Made the Earth: My First Maps, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
flat brushEnglish
A brush with a square, flat end, good for wide strokes, filling areas and sharp edges.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
A brush with a square, flat end, good for wide strokes, filling areas and sharp edges.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
flat colorEnglish
Areas of a single unshaded ink, the signature look of classic posters; each flat color was a separate stone or plate.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
Areas of a single unshaded ink, the signature look of classic posters; each flat color was a separate stone or plate.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
flattingEnglish
Laying flat local color under the line art, shape by shape, the comics industry's name for the patient base-coloring pass (and an actual entry-level paid job).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
Laying flat local color under the line art, shape by shape, the comics industry's name for the patient base-coloring pass (and an actual entry-level paid job).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
fluid gridEnglish
A grid whose columns are percentages of their container rather than fixed pixels, computed by target ÷ context.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
A grid whose columns are percentages of their container rather than fixed pixels, computed by target ÷ context.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
flying buttressEnglish
An arched stone support outside a wall that carries the push of the roof vault down to the ground.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8) · +3 more
An arched stone support outside a wall that carries the push of the roof vault down to the ground.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8) · +3 more
focal pointEnglish
The place in an artwork where the eye goes first; the center of interest.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5) · +3 more
The place in an artwork where the eye goes first; the center of interest.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5) · +3 more
foldEnglish
To bend paper over and press a sharp line, called a crease.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade K) · Grade 2 Earth Science: The Earth's Surface, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · +3 more
To bend paper over and press a sharp line, called a crease.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade K) · Grade 2 Earth Science: The Earth's Surface, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · +3 more
folioEnglish
The page number as a designed element, usually with a fixed position and style on the master page.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Explore Animals · Ranger, Stop 2.9 (Ages 10–13)
The page number as a designed element, usually with a fixed position and style on the master page.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Explore Animals · Ranger, Stop 2.9 (Ages 10–13)
follow-upEnglish
The thank-you note within a day, the patient silence afterward, the gracious reply to rejection. Etiquette is strategy: every reviewer is a future colleague in a small industry.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
The thank-you note within a day, the patient silence afterward, the gracious reply to rejection. Etiquette is strategy: every reviewer is a future colleague in a small industry.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
foregroundEnglish
The front part of a picture; the things that look closest to you.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
The front part of a picture; the things that look closest to you.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
foreground, middle ground, backgroundEnglish
The near, middle and far zones of a picture.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
The near, middle and far zones of a picture.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
foreshorteningEnglish
When a part pointing toward you looks shorter than it really is.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
When a part pointing toward you looks shorter than it really is.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
formEnglish
A solid object that takes up space and can be seen from all sides, like a ball or a box.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
A solid object that takes up space and can be seen from all sides, like a ball or a box.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
form shadowEnglish
The darker side on the object itself, away from the light.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
The darker side on the object itself, away from the light.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
form shadow edgeEnglish
The edge of the shadow on the object itself, which is soft on rounded forms and hard on angular ones.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
The edge of the shadow on the object itself, which is soft on rounded forms and hard on angular ones.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
formatEnglish
The shape and orientation of the picture: horizontal (landscape), vertical (portrait) or square.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 7)
The shape and orientation of the picture: horizontal (landscape), vertical (portrait) or square.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 7)
found edgeEnglish
An edge that is clearly visible. Artists use lost and found edges together to make a drawing breathe.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7)
An edge that is clearly visible. Artists use lost and found edges together to make a drawing breathe.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7)
frame (artboard)English
A fixed-size canvas representing one screen — 375 × 812 for a phone screen, for example. A screen set is a row of named frames.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
A fixed-size canvas representing one screen — 375 × 812 for a phone screen, for example. A screen set is a row of named frames.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
frescoEnglish
A painting made on wet plaster, so the colors become part of the wall as it dries.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
A painting made on wet plaster, so the colors become part of the wall as it dries.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
friarEnglish
A member of a religious order, such as the Dominicans, who lives in community and preaches.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5)
A member of a religious order, such as the Dominicans, who lives in community and preaches.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5)
frieze arrangementEnglish
Figures placed side by side across the foreground, like a carved band of figures on a building.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
Figures placed side by side across the foreground, like a carved band of figures on a building.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
fugitiveEnglish
Describes a color that fades quickly in light.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
Describes a color that fades quickly in light.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
fulcrumEnglish
The balance point; in a picture, the place around which the visual weights seem to balance.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.2 (grade 9–12) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
The balance point; in a picture, the place around which the visual weights seem to balance.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.2 (grade 9–12) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
furEnglish
The thick, soft hair that covers many animals, like rabbits, cats and bears.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade K) · Grade 2 Life Science: Animal Families, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
The thick, soft hair that covers many animals, like rabbits, cats and bears.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade K) · Grade 2 Life Science: Animal Families, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
G
gableEnglish
The triangular top part of a wall under the two slopes of a pitched roof.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8)
The triangular top part of a wall under the two slopes of a pitched roof.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8)
gamutEnglish
The range of colors a system can produce. Screen RGB reaches vivid glowing colors that CMYK ink on paper cannot; out-of-gamut colors shift when printed.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
The range of colors a system can produce. Screen RGB reaches vivid glowing colors that CMYK ink on paper cannot; out-of-gamut colors shift when printed.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
gamut mappingEnglish
A palette-planning idea from painters: draw a shape over the wheel and allow only hues inside it; a narrow shape guarantees harmony because nothing outside it can intrude.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
A palette-planning idea from painters: draw a shape over the wheel and allow only hues inside it; a narrow shape guarantees harmony because nothing outside it can intrude.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
generative AI image toolEnglish
Software trained on vast image sets that produces new images from text prompts or image inputs. A tool with real uses and real limits — and no claim to authorship under current U.S. law.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
Software trained on vast image sets that produces new images from text prompts or image inputs. A tool with real uses and real limits — and no claim to authorship under current U.S. law.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
genericideEnglish
The death of a trademark that becomes the common word for the product itself — as happened in the United States to aspirin, escalator and thermos.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
The death of a trademark that becomes the common word for the product itself — as happened in the United States to aspirin, escalator and thermos.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
genre paintingEnglish
A painting of everyday life, such as people working, cooking or reading at home.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
A painting of everyday life, such as people working, cooking or reading at home.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
geometric shapeEnglish
A neat, regular shape with a name, like a circle, square, triangle or rectangle.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2)
A neat, regular shape with a name, like a circle, square, triangle or rectangle.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2)
gessoEnglish
A white primer of chalk and glue spread on wood or canvas so paint sticks well and stays bright.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7) · +1 more
A white primer of chalk and glue spread on wood or canvas so paint sticks well and stays bright.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7) · +1 more
gestureEnglish
The movement or action of a body: running, rearing, bending, resting.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8) · +1 more
The movement or action of a body: running, rearing, bending, resting.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8) · +1 more
gesture drawingEnglish
A quick, loose drawing that shows the action and movement of a figure rather than its details.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7)
A quick, loose drawing that shows the action and movement of a figure rather than its details.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7)
giornataEnglish
Italian for “a day’s work”: the patch of fresh plaster a fresco painter could paint before it dried.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5)
Italian for “a day’s work”: the patch of fresh plaster a fresco painter could paint before it dried.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5)
glazeEnglish
A thin, transparent layer of paint brushed over a dry layer, so the two colors mix on the paper.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8) · Culinary Arts & Meal Planning, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12) · +1 more
A thin, transparent layer of paint brushed over a dry layer, so the two colors mix on the paper.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8) · Culinary Arts & Meal Planning, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12) · +1 more
gold leafEnglish
Gold beaten into extremely thin sheets, applied to panels as backgrounds and halos in sacred paintings.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8)
Gold beaten into extremely thin sheets, applied to panels as backgrounds and halos in sacred paintings.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8)
Golden Age of IllustrationEnglish
Roughly the 1880s to the 1920s, when mass magazines and illustrated books made illustrators famous, well paid and central to American visual life.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
Roughly the 1880s to the 1920s, when mass magazines and illustrated books made illustrators famous, well paid and central to American visual life.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
golden ratioEnglish
A proportion of about 1 to 1.618, found when a line is divided so that the whole is to the long part as the long part is to the short part. Written with the Greek letter φ (phi).
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
A proportion of about 1 to 1.618, found when a line is divided so that the whole is to the long part as the long part is to the short part. Written with the Greek letter φ (phi).
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
golden ratio (φ)English
The proportion \varphi = \tfrac{1+\sqrt{5}}{2} \approx 1.618, where the whole relates to the larger part as the larger part relates to the smaller; one honest tool among several for choosing related sizes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
The proportion \varphi = \tfrac{1+\sqrt{5}}{2} \approx 1.618, where the whole relates to the larger part as the larger part relates to the smaller; one honest tool among several for choosing related sizes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
golden rectangleEnglish
A rectangle whose long side is about 1.618 times its short side.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6)
A rectangle whose long side is about 1.618 times its short side.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6)
golden spiralEnglish
A spiral drawn through a series of squares cut from a golden rectangle, growing by the golden ratio each quarter turn.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6)
A spiral drawn through a series of squares cut from a golden rectangle, growing by the golden ratio each quarter turn.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 6)
GothicEnglish
A style of church building from the Middle Ages with tall pointed arches and huge windows.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
A style of church building from the Middle Ages with tall pointed arches and huge windows.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
gradationEnglish
A smooth, gradual change from light to dark.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
A smooth, gradual change from light to dark.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
gradation (in the sky)English
The gradual change of the sky’s color and value, usually deeper blue overhead and paler, warmer near the horizon.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7)
The gradual change of the sky’s color and value, usually deeper blue overhead and paler, warmer near the horizon.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7)
graphic designEnglish
The art of arranging words and images to communicate a message clearly and attractively.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
The art of arranging words and images to communicate a message clearly and attractively.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
graphiteEnglish
A soft, dark gray mineral made of carbon; it is the gray part of a pencil.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
A soft, dark gray mineral made of carbon; it is the gray part of a pencil.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
grayEnglish
A color between white and black, made by mixing them.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Expert, Stop 1.8 (Ages 14+)
A color between white and black, made by mixing them.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Expert, Stop 1.8 (Ages 14+)
grayscaleEnglish
A picture or scale made only of grays, from white to black, showing values without hue.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 5)
A picture or scale made only of grays, from white to black, showing values without hue.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 5)
gridEnglish
A hidden framework of columns and margins used to place elements consistently.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
A hidden framework of columns and margins used to place elements consistently.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
grisailleEnglish
A painting done entirely in shades of gray (from the French gris, gray), either as a finished work or as an underpainting.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
A painting done entirely in shades of gray (from the French gris, gray), either as a finished work or as an underpainting.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
grotesque / geometric / humanist sansEnglish
The three working families of sans serifs: nineteenth-century plainness refined into Helvetica (1957); compass-and-ruler shapes like Futura (1927); and sans letters with calligraphic bones like Gill Sans (1928).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
The three working families of sans serifs: nineteenth-century plainness refined into Helvetica (1957); compass-and-ruler shapes like Futura (1927); and sans letters with calligraphic bones like Gill Sans (1928).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
groundEnglish
The prepared layer between the support and the paint, which gives the paint a stable, even surface to stick to.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
The prepared layer between the support and the paint, which gives the paint a stable, even surface to stick to.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
ground lineEnglish
A line near the bottom of a picture that things stand on.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade K)
A line near the bottom of a picture that things stand on.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade K)
ground planeEnglish
The flat surface the scene stands on; objects on it shrink lawfully with distance, which lets you scale figures correctly.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
The flat surface the scene stands on; objects on it shrink lawfully with distance, which lets you scale figures correctly.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
groutEnglish
The material that fills the gaps between mosaic pieces.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 2)
The material that fills the gaps between mosaic pieces.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 2)
guidelineEnglish
A light line drawn to help place things correctly; it is erased later.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 5) · +1 more
A light line drawn to help place things correctly; it is erased later.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 5) · +1 more
guidelinesEnglish
Light lines that help you place the features, later erased.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2)
Light lines that help you place the features, later erased.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2)
gum arabicEnglish
The binder in watercolor. It is a sap that comes from acacia trees.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · +2 more
The binder in watercolor. It is a sap that comes from acacia trees.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · +2 more
gutterEnglish
The inner margins where the pages meet at the binding.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · +1 more
The inner margins where the pages meet at the binding.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · +1 more
H
H and BEnglish
Pencil grades: H means hard (more clay, lighter lines); B means black or soft (more graphite, darker lines). HB is in the middle.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6)
Pencil grades: H means hard (more clay, lighter lines); B means black or soft (more graphite, darker lines). HB is in the middle.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6)
H pencilEnglish
A hard pencil with more clay; it makes light, thin lines. 4H is harder than 2H.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3)
A hard pencil with more clay; it makes light, thin lines. 4H is harder than 2H.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3)
halftoneEnglish
The middle values on the lit side of a form, between the light and the shadow.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7) · +2 more
The middle values on the lit side of a form, between the light and the shadow.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7) · +2 more
halftone / LPIEnglish
Printing simulates tones with grids of dots; lines per inch (LPI) is the dot-grid frequency: newspapers about 85, magazines 133–150.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
Printing simulates tones with grids of dots; lines per inch (LPI) is the dot-grid frequency: newspapers about 85, magazines 133–150.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
hallmarkEnglish
An official purity mark struck on gold or silver at an assay office; English law required the leopard's head on silver from 1300, and the word comes from Goldsmiths' Hall in London.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 4.6 (Ages 10–13)
An official purity mark struck on gold or silver at an assay office; English law required the leopard's head on silver from 1300, and the word comes from Goldsmiths' Hall in London.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 4.6 (Ages 10–13)
handle (control point)English
The lever attached to a node that sets the curve's direction and depth on that side; the curve bends toward handles it never touches.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
The lever attached to a node that sets the curve's direction and depth on that side; the curve bends toward handles it never touches.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
hard edgeEnglish
A sharp, clear boundary between light and shadow.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7)
A sharp, clear boundary between light and shadow.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7)
harmonyEnglish
When the parts of an artwork look like they belong together.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5)
When the parts of an artwork look like they belong together.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5)
hatchingEnglish
Shading made of many short parallel lines going the same direction.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5)
Shading made of many short parallel lines going the same direction.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5)
hatching (in tempera)English
Building tone and color with many small parallel strokes, because tempera dries too quickly to blend.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8)
Building tone and color with many small parallel strokes, because tempera dries too quickly to blend.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8)
head unitEnglish
The height of the head from chin to crown, used as a measuring unit for the whole figure.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
The height of the head from chin to crown, used as a measuring unit for the whole figure.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
heads tallEnglish
How many head-lengths fit in the whole height of a figure. A grown man is about 7½ to 8 heads tall; a child your age is about 6.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4)
How many head-lengths fit in the whole height of a figure. A grown man is about 7½ to 8 heads tall; a child your age is about 6.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4)
heighteningEnglish
Adding white or light chalk to the lights of a drawing on toned paper, as Dürer did in Praying Hands.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
Adding white or light chalk to the lights of a drawing on toned paper, as Dürer did in Praying Hands.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
hexadecimal (hex)English
Base-16 numbers using digits 0–9 and A–F (A=10 … F=15); a hex color like #2E86C1 packs the three RGB channels into six digits, two per channel.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
Base-16 numbers using digits 0–9 and A–F (A=10 … F=15); a hex color like #2E86C1 packs the three RGB channels into six digits, two per channel.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
hierarchical scaleEnglish
Making the most important figure the largest, regardless of distance.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6)
Making the most important figure the largest, regardless of distance.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6)
hierarchyEnglish
The planned ranking of a composition's parts: what is seen first, second and third. If the designer doesn't set it, accident will.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
The planned ranking of a composition's parts: what is seen first, second and third. If the designer doesn't set it, accident will.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
high key and low keyEnglish
A high-key picture uses mostly light values; a low-key picture uses mostly dark ones.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
A high-key picture uses mostly light values; a low-key picture uses mostly dark ones.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
high reliefEnglish
A relief whose shapes stand out far from the background, sometimes almost free.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
A relief whose shapes stand out far from the background, sometimes almost free.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
High RenaissanceEnglish
The short peak of the Renaissance, about 1495–1520, the time of Leonardo, Michelangelo and Raphael.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
The short peak of the Renaissance, about 1495–1520, the time of Leonardo, Michelangelo and Raphael.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
highlightEnglish
The brightest little spot where light shines on something.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
The brightest little spot where light shines on something.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
history paintingEnglish
In the tradition of European art, large paintings of scenes from Scripture, history or literature, once considered the highest kind of painting.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7)
In the tradition of European art, large paintings of scenes from Scripture, history or literature, once considered the highest kind of painting.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7)
hockEnglish
The joint halfway down a horse’s back leg that bends backward, like a human heel lifted high.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Expert, Stop 2.1 (Ages 14+) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Ranger, Stop 2.1 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
The joint halfway down a horse’s back leg that bends backward, like a human heel lifted high.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Expert, Stop 2.1 (Ages 14+) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Ranger, Stop 2.1 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
horizonEnglish
The faraway line where the land or sea seems to meet the sky.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade K) · Grade 6 Earth Science: The Dynamic Earth, Lesson 9.2 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Earth Science: Earth Resources and Careers, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8) · +3 more
The faraway line where the land or sea seems to meet the sky.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade K) · Grade 6 Earth Science: The Dynamic Earth, Lesson 9.2 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Earth Science: Earth Resources and Careers, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8) · +3 more
horizon lineEnglish
The line far away where the land or sea seems to meet the sky.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
The line far away where the land or sea seems to meet the sky.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
horizon line (eye level)English
The horizontal line at the height of the viewer's eye; in a drawing the two terms mean the same line, whether or not a real horizon is visible.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
The horizontal line at the height of the viewer's eye; in a drawing the two terms mean the same line, whether or not a real horizon is visible.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
horizon rule for figuresEnglish
On flat ground, the heads of standing adults are all near the horizon line if the viewer is standing.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8)
On flat ground, the heads of standing adults are all near the horizon line if the viewer is standing.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8)
horizontalEnglish
Lying down flat, like the horizon or a sleeping person.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
Lying down flat, like the horizon or a sleeping person.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
hourly rateEnglish
What an hour of your work must earn: (\text{target income} + \text{overhead}) \div \text{billable hours} — the foundation under every package price.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
What an hour of your work must earn: (\text{target income} + \text{overhead}) \div \text{billable hours} — the foundation under every package price.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
HTMLEnglish
HyperText Markup Language: the file that holds a page's content and structure — headings, paragraphs, links, images — each wrapped in labeled tags like <h1> and <p>.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
HyperText Markup Language: the file that holds a page's content and structure — headings, paragraphs, links, images — each wrapped in labeled tags like <h1> and <p>.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
Hudson River SchoolEnglish
A group of American landscape painters, about 1825–1875, who painted the wilderness of the Hudson River valley and beyond in grand, detailed views.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8)
A group of American landscape painters, about 1825–1875, who painted the wilderness of the Hudson River valley and beyond in grand, detailed views.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8)
hueEnglish
The name of a color on the color wheel, such as red, blue-green or yellow-orange.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
The name of a color on the color wheel, such as red, blue-green or yellow-orange.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
human authorshipEnglish
The U.S. Copyright Office's requirement for protection: copyright covers what a human actually created. Output generated by a machine from a prompt is not registrable; a work combining both is protected only in its human-authored parts.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
The U.S. Copyright Office's requirement for protection: copyright covers what a human actually created. Output generated by a machine from a prompt is not registrable; a work combining both is protected only in its human-authored parts.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
humectantEnglish
An additive, such as honey or glycerin, that holds a little moisture so dried watercolor can be rewetted easily.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8)
An additive, such as honey or glycerin, that holds a little moisture so dried watercolor can be rewetted easily.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8)
I
iconEnglish
A sacred image of Christ, the Virgin Mary or a saint, traditionally painted in egg tempera on wood.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 6) · Explore Hospitality and Home · Expert, Stop 3.2 (Ages 14+)
A sacred image of Christ, the Virgin Mary or a saint, traditionally painted in egg tempera on wood.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 6) · Explore Hospitality and Home · Expert, Stop 3.2 (Ages 14+)
idealizedEnglish
Made more perfect and harmonious than ordinary life, showing beauty as it ought to be.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5)
Made more perfect and harmonious than ordinary life, showing beauty as it ought to be.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5)
identity systemEnglish
The complete designed kit a mark commands — logo versions, color, type, spacing and imagery rules — so everything a company shows looks like one hand made it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The complete designed kit a mark commands — logo versions, color, type, spacing and imagery rules — so everything a company shows looks like one hand made it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
illuminatedEnglish
Lit up. An illuminated book is decorated with bright colors and sometimes real gold.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Explore Crafts and Making, Stop 3.3 (Ages 7–9)
Lit up. An illuminated book is decorated with bright colors and sometimes real gold.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Explore Crafts and Making, Stop 3.3 (Ages 7–9)
illuminated manuscriptEnglish
A handwritten book decorated with painted pictures, ornaments and often gold, which “illuminates” (lights up) the page.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6)
A handwritten book decorated with painted pictures, ornaments and often gold, which “illuminates” (lights up) the page.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6)
illuminationEnglish
Decoration in a manuscript with bright colors and often real gold, which seems to light up the page.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4)
Decoration in a manuscript with bright colors and often real gold, which seems to light up the page.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4)
illustrationEnglish
A picture made to go with a text, to explain, decorate or tell its story.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
A picture made to go with a text, to explain, decorate or tell its story.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
impastoEnglish
Paint put on so thickly that the brushstrokes stand up from the canvas and make real texture.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
Paint put on so thickly that the brushstrokes stand up from the canvas and make real texture.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
implied lineEnglish
A line we sense but that is not drawn, such as the direction a person is looking or pointing, or a row of separate objects.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6)
A line we sense but that is not drawn, such as the direction a person is looking or pointing, or a row of separate objects.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6)
implied textureEnglish
Texture that is drawn or painted so it looks rough or soft, but the paper is really flat.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4)
Texture that is drawn or painted so it looks rough or soft, but the paper is really flat.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4)
impositionEnglish
Arranging pages on the press sheet so they come out in order after folding; in a saddle-stitched booklet each printed pair of facing pages sums to the page count plus one.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 5.3 (grade 12)
Arranging pages on the press sheet so they come out in order after folding; in a saddle-stitched booklet each printed pair of facing pages sums to the page count plus one.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 5.3 (grade 12)
impressionEnglish
A mark made by pressing an object into a soft surface like clay.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3)
A mark made by pressing an object into a soft surface like clay.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3)
ImpressionismEnglish
A movement begun in France in the 1870s by painters who tried to capture the momentary effects of light and atmosphere, often painting outdoors with quick, broken strokes.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
A movement begun in France in the 1870s by painters who tried to capture the momentary effects of light and atmosphere, often painting outdoors with quick, broken strokes.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
in frontEnglish
Closer to you. The thing in front is drawn whole.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2)
Closer to you. The thing in front is drawn whole.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2)
incipitEnglish
The opening words of a text, often written very large and decorated in medieval manuscripts.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8)
The opening words of a text, often written very large and decorated in medieval manuscripts.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8)
indirect paintingEnglish
Building a painting in separate layers (underpainting, then glazes), as opposed to direct painting in one layer.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
Building a painting in separate layers (underpainting, then glazes), as opposed to direct painting in one layer.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
industry standardEnglish
The tools most studios and printers assume: Adobe Photoshop (raster), Illustrator (vector) and InDesign (layout), plus Figma for interface design and Procreate for iPad painting.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
The tools most studios and printers assume: Adobe Photoshop (raster), Illustrator (vector) and InDesign (layout), plus Figma for interface design and Procreate for iPad painting.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
influence dietEnglish
The set of artists and images you regularly study; vary it, because a single influence produces an imitator while many influences digest into a voice.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
The set of artists and images you regularly study; vary it, because a single influence produces an imitator while many influences digest into a voice.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
informational interviewEnglish
A 20-minute conversation you request with a working designer not to ask for a job, but to ask about the work — the lowest-pressure, highest-yield door-opener in the field.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
A 20-minute conversation you request with a working designer not to ask for a job, but to ask about the work — the lowest-pressure, highest-yield door-opener in the field.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
infringementEnglish
Using a copyrighted work without permission. Innocence of the law is no defense, and 'it was on the internet' is not a license.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Fabrics & Sewing II, Lesson 4.1 (grade 6–8)
Using a copyrighted work without permission. Innocence of the law is no defense, and 'it was on the internet' is not a license.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Fabrics & Sewing II, Lesson 4.1 (grade 6–8)
in-house designerEnglish
A designer employed by one company to serve its own brand — steady salary and benefits, deep knowledge of one audience, less variety. The employer owns the work (Lesson 10.2).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
A designer employed by one company to serve its own brand — steady salary and benefits, deep knowledge of one audience, less variety. The employer owns the work (Lesson 10.2).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
initialEnglish
The first letter of a word, a name or a page.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
The first letter of a word, a name or a page.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
inkEnglish
A liquid of very fine pigment or dye with a binder, made for writing and drawing.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4) · Explore Animals, Stop 4.2 (Ages 7–9) · Grade 1 Life Science: Animal Homes and Habits, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1)
A liquid of very fine pigment or dye with a binder, made for writing and drawing.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4) · Explore Animals, Stop 4.2 (Ages 7–9) · Grade 1 Life Science: Animal Homes and Habits, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1)
ink corrosionEnglish
Damage to old documents caused when too much acid and iron in iron gall ink slowly eats through the paper.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
Damage to old documents caused when too much acid and iron in iron gall ink slowly eats through the paper.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
inpaintingEnglish
Carefully painting only inside areas where the original paint is lost, using removable materials, never painting over original paint.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
Carefully painting only inside areas where the original paint is lost, using removable materials, never painting over original paint.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
intensityEnglish
How bright or dull a color is.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 5) · +1 more
How bright or dull a color is.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 5) · +1 more
intensity (chroma)English
How pure and bright a color is, compared with a gray of the same value.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8)
How pure and bright a color is, compared with a gray of the same value.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8)
interlaceEnglish
A pattern of bands that weave over and under each other, as in a knot or basket.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6)
A pattern of bands that weave over and under each other, as in a knot or basket.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6)
interlocking shapesEnglish
Dark and light shapes that fit into each other like puzzle pieces, so neither simply sits on top of a background.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 7)
Dark and light shapes that fit into each other like puzzle pieces, so neither simply sits on top of a background.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 7)
internshipEnglish
A short, defined stint inside a studio or department, paid or for credit, traded for experience, mentorship and references. The portfolio gets you in; the conduct gets you remembered.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
A short, defined stint inside a studio or department, paid or for credit, traded for experience, mentorship and references. The portfolio gets you in; the conduct gets you remembered.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
interpretEnglish
Step 3: explain what the work means or what feeling it gives, using evidence from steps 1 and 2.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6) · Explore Dinosaurs, Stop 2.10 (Ages 7–9)
Step 3: explain what the work means or what feeling it gives, using evidence from steps 1 and 2.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6) · Explore Dinosaurs, Stop 2.10 (Ages 7–9)
interpretationEnglish
The third step: explaining what the work means or expresses, supported by evidence.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Grade 7 Earth Science: Earth History and the Flood, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7) · Grade 7 Earth Science: Earth History and the Flood, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7) · +3 more
The third step: explaining what the work means or expresses, supported by evidence.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Grade 7 Earth Science: Earth History and the Flood, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7) · Grade 7 Earth Science: Earth History and the Flood, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7) · +3 more
invoiceEnglish
The bill: numbered and dated, itemizing deliverables and amounts, crediting the deposit, stating the balance, terms (e.g., Net 30) and the late policy.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
The bill: numbered and dated, itemizing deliverables and amounts, crediting the deposit, stating the balance, terms (e.g., Net 30) and the late policy.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
iron gall inkEnglish
Ink made from oak galls (round growths on oak trees) and iron, used in Europe for over a thousand years.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
Ink made from oak galls (round growths on oak trees) and iron, used in Europe for over a thousand years.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
iron oxideEnglish
A compound of iron and oxygen (the same family as rust) that colors most earth pigments yellow, red and brown.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 5)
A compound of iron and oxygen (the same family as rust) that colors most earth pigments yellow, red and brown.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 5)
isolationEnglish
Setting something apart by itself, with space around it.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4)
Setting something apart by itself, with space around it.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4)
italicEnglish
A slanted, flowing letter style introduced by Aldus Manutius and his punchcutter Francesco Griffo in 1501, originally to fit more words on a page.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
A slanted, flowing letter style introduced by Aldus Manutius and his punchcutter Francesco Griffo in 1501, originally to fit more words on a page.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
iterationEnglish
The cycle of make, review, revise, repeat — the engine by which all professional work gets good.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 5 Business & Finance, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5) · +2 more
The cycle of make, review, revise, repeat — the engine by which all professional work gets good.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 5 Business & Finance, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5) · +2 more
J
jointEnglish
A place where a leg or neck bends. Animal legs have joints in places that surprise people.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · +3 more
A place where a leg or neck bends. Animal legs have joints in places that surprise people.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 5) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · +3 more
judgeEnglish
Step 4: decide whether the work is successful and why, using clear reasons.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 9.3 (grade 3) · Explore Great Battles · Expert, Stop 1.8 (Ages 14+) · +3 more
Step 4: decide whether the work is successful and why, using clear reasons.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 6) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 9.3 (grade 3) · Explore Great Battles · Expert, Stop 1.8 (Ages 14+) · +3 more
judgmentEnglish
The fourth step: deciding how successful the work is and why, using clear standards.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Insurance Agent Exam Prep: Life, Health, Property & Casualty, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 6 Composition & Creative Writing: Maxim, Refutation and Confirmation, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · +1 more
The fourth step: deciding how successful the work is and why, using clear standards.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8) · Insurance Agent Exam Prep: Life, Health, Property & Casualty, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 6 Composition & Creative Writing: Maxim, Refutation and Confirmation, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · +1 more
K
key colorEnglish
A color mixed into many of the other mixtures so the whole painting shares it.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8)
A color mixed into many of the other mixtures so the whole painting shares it.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8)
key plate (K)English
The black plate, named because it carried the detail to which the other plates were aligned (keyed); black ink exists because mixing CMY makes a muddy brown and costs triple ink.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
The black plate, named because it carried the detail to which the other plates were aligned (keyed); black ink exists because mixing CMY makes a muddy brown and costs triple ink.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
keyboard shortcut fluencyEnglish
Operating the tool from the keys (B brush, E eraser, Ctrl+Z, Ctrl+S, Space-drag pan) so the hands work while the eyes stay on the art; studios notice it in interviews.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
Operating the tool from the keys (B brush, E eraser, Ctrl+Z, Ctrl+S, Space-drag pan) so the hands work while the eyes stay on the art; studios notice it in interviews.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
kill feeEnglish
The contract clause stating what the client pays if the project is cancelled partway — commonly 25–50% depending on stage — protecting the maker's invested time.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
The contract clause stating what the client pays if the project is cancelled partway — commonly 25–50% depending on stage — protecting the maker's invested time.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
kneaded eraserEnglish
A soft, putty-like eraser that lifts graphite and charcoal by pressing and can be shaped to a point or edge; it leaves no crumbs.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
A soft, putty-like eraser that lifts graphite and charcoal by pressing and can be shaped to a point or edge; it leaves no crumbs.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
knotworkEnglish
Lines that weave over and under each other like a knotted rope.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4)
Lines that weave over and under each other like a knotted rope.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4)
knuckle arcEnglish
The curved line along which the knuckles sit; the fingers fan out from it, and the middle finger is longest.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
The curved line along which the knuckles sit; the fingers fan out from it, and the middle finger is longest.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
knucklesEnglish
The joints of the fingers. The big knuckles at the top of the hand form a gentle curve, not a straight line.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5)
The joints of the fingers. The big knuckles at the top of the hand form a gentle curve, not a straight line.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5)
.kraEnglish
Krita's native layered file. Keep it as the master; export flattened PNG or JPEG copies for sharing.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
Krita's native layered file. Keep it as the master; export flattened PNG or JPEG copies for sharing.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
L
labelEnglish
A small card next to an artwork with its title, the artist’s name, the date and what it is made of.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · +3 more
A small card next to an artwork with its title, the artist’s name, the date and what it is made of.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · +3 more
lake pigmentEnglish
A pigment made by fixing a dye onto a colorless mineral powder, such as the red lakes made from cochineal insects or madder root. Many lakes are fugitive.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
A pigment made by fixing a dye onto a colorless mineral powder, such as the red lakes made from cochineal insects or madder root. Many lakes are fugitive.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7)
landmarkEnglish
A point on the body that helps you check proportion, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips and knees.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 7) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
A point on the body that helps you check proportion, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips and knees.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 7) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
landmarksEnglish
Points on the body that are easy to find and measure, such as the chin, shoulders, waist, knees and elbows.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5)
Points on the body that are easy to find and measure, such as the chin, shoulders, waist, knees and elbows.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5)
landscapeEnglish
A picture of the outdoors: land, sky, trees, fields, water.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 2) · +2 more
A picture of the outdoors: land, sky, trees, fields, water.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 2) · +2 more
lapis lazuliEnglish
A deep blue rock containing the blue mineral lazurite, flecked with white calcite and gold-colored pyrite.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5)
A deep blue rock containing the blue mineral lazurite, flecked with white calcite and gold-colored pyrite.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5)
layerEnglish
To put one color on top of another.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · +3 more
To put one color on top of another.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · +3 more
layeringEnglish
Putting light coats of color on top of each other to build up a color.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 2) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places · Expert, Stop 2.5 (Ages 14+) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places · Ranger, Stop 2.5 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
Putting light coats of color on top of each other to build up a color.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 2) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places · Expert, Stop 2.5 (Ages 14+) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places · Ranger, Stop 2.5 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
layersEnglish
Bands of land, one behind another, each painted a little lighter as they go back.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 8.2 (grade 1)
Bands of land, one behind another, each painted a little lighter as they go back.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 8.2 (grade 1)
lead cameEnglish
Thin strips of lead metal that hold the pieces of glass together. They look like black lines.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2)
Thin strips of lead metal that hold the pieces of glass together. They look like black lines.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2)
leading edgeEnglish
The vertical edge of a box nearest to the viewer, drawn first.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 6) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.2 (grade 4)
The vertical edge of a box nearest to the viewer, drawn first.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 6) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.2 (grade 4)
leading lineEnglish
A line in a picture (a road, river, fence, edge or row of objects) that carries the viewer’s eye toward something.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6)
A line in a picture (a road, river, fence, edge or row of objects) that carries the viewer’s eye toward something.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 6)
leading (line height)English
The baseline-to-baseline distance, named for the strips of lead compositors slid between lines; healthy body text runs about 120–145% of the type size.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
The baseline-to-baseline distance, named for the strips of lead compositors slid between lines; healthy body text runs about 120–145% of the type size.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
leading linesEnglish
Lines in a picture that guide the viewer’s eye toward the focal point.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5) · +1 more
Lines in a picture that guide the viewer’s eye toward the focal point.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5) · +1 more
leather-hardEnglish
Clay that has dried enough to be firm, like a leather shoe, but is still slightly damp.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3)
Clay that has dried enough to be firm, like a leather shoe, but is still slightly damp.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3)
letteringEnglish
Letters drawn as a one-time piece of artwork for a specific word and use, like a logo or book cover; not reusable as a font.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
Letters drawn as a one-time piece of artwork for a specific word and use, like a logo or book cover; not reusable as a font.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
lettermarkEnglish
A monogram mark built from initials — the choice when the name is long but the initials are known.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
A monogram mark built from initials — the choice when the name is long but the initials are known.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
letterpressEnglish
Printing from raised, inked surfaces pressed into paper, Gutenberg's method, dominant for 500 years and now a boutique craft.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
Printing from raised, inked surfaces pressed into paper, Gutenberg's method, dominant for 500 years and now a boutique craft.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
levelsEnglish
The adjustment that remaps tones: pull the white point down to bleach the paper, the black point up to solidify the ink, and the lines pop clean.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
The adjustment that remaps tones: pull the white point down to bleach the paper, the black point up to solidify the ink, and the lines pop clean.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
licenseEnglish
Permission to use a work in defined ways while the creator keeps ownership — scoped by use, territory, duration and exclusivity (exclusive: only this client may use it; non-exclusive: others may too).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · Real Estate License Exam Prep: The National Exam, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
Permission to use a work in defined ways while the creator keeps ownership — scoped by use, territory, duration and exclusivity (exclusive: only this client may use it; non-exclusive: others may too).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · Real Estate License Exam Prep: The National Exam, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
life sizeEnglish
Drawn the same size as the real thing.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade K) · Grade 3 Life Science: Plants and Animals Together, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3)
Drawn the same size as the real thing.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade K) · Grade 3 Life Science: Plants and Animals Together, Lesson 8.1 (grade 3)
life-sizeEnglish
The same size as the real thing.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 7.3 (grade K) · Explore Animals, Stop 2.9 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
The same size as the real thing.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 7.3 (grade K) · Explore Animals, Stop 2.9 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
lightEnglish
Close to white; pale.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 5.2 (grade K) · +1 more
Close to white; pale.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 5.2 (grade K) · +1 more
light colorEnglish
A color made paler by adding white, like light blue or pink. (Artists call it a tint.)
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade K)
A color made paler by adding white, like light blue or pink. (Artists call it a tint.)
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade K)
light falloffEnglish
The way light becomes weaker the farther it travels from its source.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5)
The way light becomes weaker the farther it travels from its source.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5)
light fall-offEnglish
The way light grows weaker as it travels farther from its source.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
The way light grows weaker as it travels farther from its source.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
light sourceEnglish
Something that gives off light, like the sun, a lamp, a candle or a fire.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
Something that gives off light, like the sun, a lamp, a candle or a fire.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
lightfastnessEnglish
How well a pigment or dye resists fading or changing color in light.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8) · +1 more
How well a pigment or dye resists fading or changing color in light.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8) · +1 more
likenessEnglish
How much a portrait looks like the particular person.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8)
How much a portrait looks like the particular person.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8)
limited paletteEnglish
A small, deliberately chosen set of colors (often three to five) from which all the colors in a painting are mixed.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
A small, deliberately chosen set of colors (often three to five) from which all the colors in a painting are mixed.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
lineEnglish
A mark made by a moving point, like the path a pencil leaves on paper.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade K) · +3 more
A mark made by a moving point, like the path a pencil leaves on paper.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade K) · +3 more
line artEnglish
The cleaned black-line layer of an illustration, kept separate from color so each can be edited alone.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
The cleaned black-line layer of an illustration, kept separate from color so each can be edited alone.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
line of actionEnglish
One long curved or slanted line that shows the main direction of movement through a body.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7) · +2 more
One long curved or slanted line that shows the main direction of movement through a body.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7) · +2 more
line of symmetryEnglish
The line down the middle that divides the two matching halves.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 2) · Explore Hospitality and Home · Expert, Stop 2.3 (Ages 14+)
The line down the middle that divides the two matching halves.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 2) · Explore Hospitality and Home · Expert, Stop 2.3 (Ages 14+)
linear perspectiveEnglish
A system of drawing with lines that meet at a point, to make things look farther away.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 5) · +1 more
A system of drawing with lines that meet at a point, to make things look farther away.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 5) · +1 more
linen and cotton duckEnglish
The two main canvas fabrics: linen is woven from flax fibers and is strong and fine; cotton duck is cheaper and softer.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7)
The two main canvas fabrics: linen is woven from flax fibers and is strong and fine; cotton duck is cheaper and softer.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7)
lithographyEnglish
Printing from a flat stone or plate using the chemistry of grease and water; invented by Alois Senefelder about 1796, it made big, cheap color posters possible.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
Printing from a flat stone or plate using the chemistry of grease and water; invented by Alois Senefelder about 1796, it made big, cheap color posters possible.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.2 (grade 9–12)
live textEnglish
Text that exists as characters the browser lays out, rather than as pixels inside an image. Live text can be selected, searched, enlarged, translated and read aloud by assistive software.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
Text that exists as characters the browser lays out, rather than as pixels inside an image. Live text can be selected, searched, enlarged, translated and read aloud by assistive software.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
local colorEnglish
The true color of an object in plain light, such as the red of a red apple.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7) · +1 more
The true color of an object in plain light, such as the red of a red apple.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7) · +1 more
loggiaEnglish
An open, roofed porch or gallery with a row of arches on columns.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5)
An open, roofed porch or gallery with a row of arches on columns.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5)
logo versionsEnglish
The approved forms of the mark: primary (full combination), secondary (stacked or horizontal), the symbol alone, and one-color/reversed versions — each with stated uses.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The approved forms of the mark: primary (full combination), secondary (stacked or horizontal), the symbol alone, and one-color/reversed versions — each with stated uses.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
logotype (wordmark)English
A name set or drawn as a fixed piece of lettering that serves as a company's mark, such as the Coca-Cola script.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
A name set or drawn as a fixed piece of lettering that serves as a company's mark, such as the Coca-Cola script.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
loomEnglish
The frame or base that holds the long strips while you weave.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Threads & Weaving, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
The frame or base that holds the long strips while you weave.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Threads & Weaving, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
Loomis methodEnglish
A way of building the head from a ball (the cranium) with the sides sliced flat and a jaw attached, taught by the American illustrator Andrew Loomis.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
A way of building the head from a ball (the cranium) with the sides sliced flat and a jaw attached, taught by the American illustrator Andrew Loomis.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.5 (grade 9–12)
loose brushworkEnglish
Painting with visible, quick strokes that suggest detail rather than describing it exactly; up close it looks rough, from a distance it looks real.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7)
Painting with visible, quick strokes that suggest detail rather than describing it exactly; up close it looks rough, from a distance it looks real.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7)
lossy vs losslessEnglish
JPEG compresses by discarding detail (lossy); PNG and TIFF keep every pixel (lossless). Nothing recovers what JPEG threw away.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
JPEG compresses by discarding detail (lossy); PNG and TIFF keep every pixel (lossless). Nothing recovers what JPEG threw away.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
lost and found edgesEnglish
Edges that are sharp in some places and soft or disappearing in others, used to steer attention.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8)
Edges that are sharp in some places and soft or disappearing in others, used to steer attention.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8)
lost edgeEnglish
An edge that melts into the background because the form and the background are nearly the same value.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7)
An edge that melts into the background because the form and the background are nearly the same value.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7)
lost-and-found edgesEnglish
Edges that alternate between clearly visible (found) and disappearing into the background (lost) along one contour.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
Edges that alternate between clearly visible (found) and disappearing into the background (lost) along one contour.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
low horizonEnglish
A horizon placed near the bottom of a picture, giving lots of room to the sky.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3)
A horizon placed near the bottom of a picture, giving lots of room to the sky.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3)
low reliefEnglish
A relief whose shapes stand out only a little from the background (also called bas-relief).
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
A relief whose shapes stand out only a little from the background (also called bas-relief).
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
luminismEnglish
A later development of the Hudson River School marked by calm, glowing light and smooth, hidden brushwork.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8)
A later development of the Hudson River School marked by calm, glowing light and smooth, hidden brushwork.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 8)
M
makereadyEnglish
The setup work before a press run (plates, registration, ink balance); it costs the same for 100 copies as for 10,000, which is why unit cost falls with quantity on offset.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
The setup work before a press run (plates, registration, ink balance); it costs the same for 100 copies as for 10,000, which is why unit cost falls with quantity on offset.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
maker's markEnglish
A personal sign stamped, carved or woven into work to say who made it — used by masons, potters, goldsmiths, weavers and printers centuries before modern branding.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
A personal sign stamped, carved or woven into work to say who made it — used by masons, potters, goldsmiths, weavers and printers centuries before modern branding.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
manuscriptEnglish
A book written by hand, before there were printing machines.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 5.4 (grade 10) · +3 more
A book written by hand, before there were printing machines.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 5.4 (grade 10) · +3 more
marbleEnglish
A hard, often white stone that sculptors have carved for thousands of years.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.2 (grade 1)
A hard, often white stone that sculptors have carved for thousands of years.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 4.2 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.2 (grade 1)
marginEnglish
The outside edge of a leaf, which can be smooth, toothed, wavy or lobed.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
The outside edge of a leaf, which can be smooth, toothed, wavy or lobed.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
markEnglish
A small line, dot or stroke made by a pencil, pen or brush.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2)
A small line, dot or stroke made by a pencil, pen or brush.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2)
markerEnglish
A pen with a soft felt tip that soaks up colored ink and lets it out when you draw.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade K) · Grade 5 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
A pen with a soft felt tip that soaks up colored ink and lets it out when you draw.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade K) · Grade 5 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
mark-makingEnglish
Using different kinds of lines, dots and strokes on purpose to create effects.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4)
Using different kinds of lines, dots and strokes on purpose to create effects.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4)
massingEnglish
Drawing large shapes of tone first (the big shapes of shadow and light) rather than starting with outlines and details.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7)
Drawing large shapes of tone first (the big shapes of shadow and light) rather than starting with outlines and details.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7)
master copyEnglish
A careful copy of a great artwork, made to learn the master’s methods.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
A careful copy of a great artwork, made to learn the master’s methods.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8)
master pageEnglish
A template page holding everything that repeats (folios, running heads, grid guides); document pages inherit it, so one change fixes every page.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12)
A template page holding everything that repeats (folios, running heads, grid guides); document pages inherit it, so one change fixes every page.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12)
master studyEnglish
Copying an excellent work to learn its decisions, always labeled as a study and never sold or passed off — the honest apprenticeship tradition from Lesson 7.4, continued for life.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
Copying an excellent work to learn its decisions, always labeled as a study and never sold or passed off — the honest apprenticeship tradition from Lesson 7.4, continued for life.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
matEnglish
A cardboard border placed around a picture to frame and protect it.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8)
A cardboard border placed around a picture to frame and protect it.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8)
materialEnglish
What something is made of: fabric, paper, metal, wood and so on.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade K) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
What something is made of: fabric, paper, metal, wood and so on.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade K) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
measureEnglish
The length of a line of text, best counted in characters per line (CPL); comfortable book text runs 45–75 CPL, with about 66 a classic ideal.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Cooking & Food, Lesson 8.1 (grade 2) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · +3 more
The length of a line of text, best counted in characters per line (CPL); comfortable book text runs 45–75 CPL, with about 66 a classic ideal.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Cooking & Food, Lesson 8.1 (grade 2) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · +3 more
media queryEnglish
The CSS rule that applies styles only under a condition, usually a minimum width: @media (min-width: 48rem) { … } — the switch that fires at a breakpoint.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
The CSS rule that applies styles only under a condition, usually a minimum width: @media (min-width: 48rem) { … } — the switch that fires at a breakpoint.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
mediumEnglish
The kind of material an artist uses (watercolor, oil, pencil); also the liquid used to thin or bind paint.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
The kind of material an artist uses (watercolor, oil, pencil); also the liquid used to thin or bind paint.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
megapixel (MP)English
One million pixels; width times height divided by a million. A 4000 × 3000 photo is 12 MP.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
One million pixels; width times height divided by a million. A 4000 × 3000 photo is 12 MP.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
middayEnglish
The middle of the day, around noon, when the sun is highest.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 1)
The middle of the day, around noon, when the sun is highest.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 1)
Middle AgesEnglish
The time in Europe from about A.D. 500 to 1400, also called the medieval period.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4)
The time in Europe from about A.D. 500 to 1400, also called the medieval period.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4)
middle groundEnglish
The part in between the foreground and the background.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +2 more
The part in between the foreground and the background.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +2 more
midribEnglish
The main vein that runs down the middle of a leaf from the stem to the tip.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3)
The main vein that runs down the middle of a leaf from the stem to the tip.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3)
minimum sizeEnglish
The smallest reproduction at which each logo version may be used, stated in millimeters for print and pixels for screen.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The smallest reproduction at which each logo version may be used, stated in millimeters for print and pixels for screen.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
mirror imageEnglish
A picture that is the same but flipped, like what you see in a mirror.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 2)
A picture that is the same but flipped, like what you see in a mirror.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 2)
mirror symmetryEnglish
When one half matches the other half like a reflection in a mirror (also called bilateral symmetry).
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3)
When one half matches the other half like a reflection in a mirror (also called bilateral symmetry).
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3)
mitten shapeEnglish
A simple shape for blocking in the hand before drawing separate fingers.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5)
A simple shape for blocking in the hand before drawing separate fingers.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5)
mixEnglish
To stir two or more colors together to make a new color.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade K)
To stir two or more colors together to make a new color.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade K)
mobile-firstEnglish
Designing the narrow screen first, then enhancing for wider ones — forcing the hard decisions about what matters most to be made first.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
Designing the narrow screen first, then enhancing for wider ones — forcing the hard decisions about what matters most to be made first.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
mockupEnglish
The mark shown in its real life — on the truck door, the cap, the invoice, the shop sign — so the client judges the identity at work instead of a logo floating on white.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
The mark shown in its real life — on the truck door, the cap, the invoice, the shop sign — so the client judges the identity at work instead of a logo floating on white.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
modified contourEnglish
A contour drawing where you look mostly at the object and only glance at the paper now and then to check your place.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4)
A contour drawing where you look mostly at the object and only glance at the paper now and then to check your place.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4)
modular scaleEnglish
A set of sizes generated from a base and a constant ratio, s_n = b\,r^n, so every size in a document is musically related to every other.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
A set of sizes generated from a base and a constant ratio, s_n = b\,r^n, so every size in a document is musically related to every other.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
moiréEnglish
An unwanted shimmering pattern made when two regular grids overlap at the wrong angle, the press disease the screen angles prevent.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
An unwanted shimmering pattern made when two regular grids overlap at the wrong angle, the press disease the screen angles prevent.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
monochromaticEnglish
Using one hue with its tints and shades, such as all blues from pale to dark.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
Using one hue with its tints and shades, such as all blues from pale to dark.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
monochromeEnglish
Made with one color (plus white or black) in many values.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
Made with one color (plus white or black) in many values.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
moodEnglish
The feeling a picture gives you, like cheerful, calm, sleepy or excited.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · English Grammar, Lesson 20.3 (grade 3–8)
The feeling a picture gives you, like cheerful, calm, sleepy or excited.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · English Grammar, Lesson 20.3 (grade 3–8)
morgue fileEnglish
The illustrator's traditional name for a collection of reference and inspiration clippings; today usually a folder of saved images, kept and studied.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
The illustrator's traditional name for a collection of reference and inspiration clippings; today usually a folder of saved images, kept and studied.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12)
mosaicEnglish
A picture made from many small pieces of stone, glass or paper fitted close together.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 2) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 6) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade K) · +3 more
A picture made from many small pieces of stone, glass or paper fitted close together.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 2) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 6) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade K) · +3 more
mother colorEnglish
A small amount of one color mixed into every other color in a palette, tying the whole scheme together; digital artists approximate it with a unifying overlay or adjustment.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
A small amount of one color mixed into every other color in a palette, tying the whole scheme together; digital artists approximate it with a unifying overlay or adjustment.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
motifEnglish
The shape or picture that repeats in a pattern.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2) · Grade 7 Earth Science: Earth History and the Flood, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 2.6 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
The shape or picture that repeats in a pattern.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2) · Grade 7 Earth Science: Earth History and the Flood, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 2.6 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
mountEnglish
To glue or attach an artwork onto a larger piece of paper or board, like a frame.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 5.10 (Ages 14+)
To glue or attach an artwork onto a larger piece of paper or board, like a frame.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 5.10 (Ages 14+)
movable typeEnglish
Individual metal letters that can be arranged, printed and reused, perfected in Europe by Johannes Gutenberg around 1450.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
Individual metal letters that can be arranged, printed and reused, perfected in Europe by Johannes Gutenberg around 1450.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
movementEnglish
The feeling in a picture that things are going, flowing, blowing or spinning.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 6)
The feeling in a picture that things are going, flowing, blowing or spinning.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 6)
muddyEnglish
A color that has become dull by accident, usually because of a dirty brush or too many colors mixed.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4)
A color that has become dull by accident, usually because of a dirty brush or too many colors mixed.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4)
mullingEnglish
Grinding pigment into binder with a flat glass tool called a muller on a smooth slab, to spread each particle evenly.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8)
Grinding pigment into binder with a flat glass tool called a muller on a smooth slab, to spread each particle evenly.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8)
multiply line layerEnglish
Setting the line-art layer to multiply so its white becomes transparent and the black lines ride cleanly over any color beneath.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
Setting the line-art layer to multiply so its white becomes transparent and the black lines ride cleanly over any color beneath.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
Munsell systemEnglish
A way of naming colors by three numbers for hue, value and chroma, devised by Albert H. Munsell.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 6)
A way of naming colors by three numbers for hue, value and chroma, devised by Albert H. Munsell.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 6)
N
narrative artEnglish
Art that tells a story or shows an event from a story.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7)
Art that tells a story or shows an event from a story.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7)
native file formatEnglish
Each tool's own layered format (PSD, AI, INDD, .kra, SVG, .afphoto); studios expect deliverables in the formats their pipeline consumes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
Each tool's own layered format (PSD, AI, INDD, .kra, SVG, .afphoto); studios expect deliverables in the formats their pipeline consumes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
naturalismEnglish
Showing things as they really look in nature, with real weight, light and space.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4)
Showing things as they really look in nature, with real weight, light and space.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4)
naturalistEnglish
A person who studies plants and animals in nature.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade K) · +3 more
A person who studies plants and animals in nature.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade K) · +3 more
natureEnglish
The world God made: plants, animals, sky, water, rocks.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade K)
The world God made: plants, animals, sky, water, rocks.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade K)
nature journalEnglish
A sketchbook of drawings and notes about plants, animals and weather you have observed.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5) · Grade 5 Composition & Creative Writing: Narrative and the Chreia, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · +3 more
A sketchbook of drawings and notes about plants, animals and weather you have observed.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 5) · Grade 5 Composition & Creative Writing: Narrative and the Chreia, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · +3 more
naveEnglish
The long central hall of a church, from the entrance toward the altar.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
The long central hall of a church, from the entrance toward the altar.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
nearEnglish
Close to you. Near things look big.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade K)
Close to you. Near things look big.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade K)
negative shapeEnglish
The shape of the empty space around or between things.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5)
The shape of the empty space around or between things.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 1) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5)
negative spaceEnglish
The empty space around and between the parts of the subject.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
The empty space around and between the parts of the subject.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
Net 30English
Payment terms meaning the balance is due within 30 days of the invoice date; Net 15 means fifteen. Late fees (commonly 1.5% per month) apply after the term.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
Payment terms meaning the balance is due within 30 days of the invoice date; Net 15 means fifteen. Late fees (commonly 1.5% per month) apply after the term.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
neutralEnglish
A brown or gray made by mixing complements together.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
A brown or gray made by mixing complements together.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
nibEnglish
The metal point of a dip pen, split down the middle so it holds ink and makes thicker lines when pressed.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4)
The metal point of a dip pen, split down the middle so it holds ink and makes thicker lines when pressed.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4)
node (anchor point)English
A point the path must pass through. Corner nodes make angles; smooth nodes keep the curve continuous through themselves.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
A point the path must pass through. Corner nodes make angles; smooth nodes keep the curve continuous through themselves.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
node economyEnglish
The professional habit of using the fewest nodes that hold the shape; fewer nodes give smoother curves and easier edits.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
The professional habit of using the fewest nodes that hold the shape; fewer nodes give smoother curves and easier edits.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12)
non-destructive editingEnglish
Working so earlier states remain recoverable: separate layers, masks and filter layers instead of repainting over the only copy.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
Working so earlier states remain recoverable: separate layers, masks and filter layers instead of repainting over the only copy.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
notanEnglish
A Japanese word meaning “dark-light”: the arrangement and balance of light and dark shapes in a design.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 7) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
A Japanese word meaning “dark-light”: the arrangement and balance of light and dark shapes in a design.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 7) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
O
oak gallEnglish
A round growth on an oak twig, formed by the tree around the egg of a tiny wasp; galls are rich in tannins.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
A round growth on an oak twig, formed by the tree around the egg of a tiny wasp; galls are rich in tannins.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
observationEnglish
Looking carefully at a real thing so you can draw what is truly there.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6) · +3 more
Looking carefully at a real thing so you can draw what is truly there.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6) · +3 more
observational drawingEnglish
Drawing from a real object in front of you, not from memory or imagination.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 7)
Drawing from a real object in front of you, not from memory or imagination.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 7)
observeEnglish
To look very carefully and notice details.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade K) · +3 more
To look very carefully and notice details.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade K) · +3 more
occlusion shadowEnglish
The very darkest thin shadow right where an object touches the surface, where almost no light can reach.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 7)
The very darkest thin shadow right where an object touches the surface, where almost no light can reach.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 7)
offset lithographyEnglish
Printing from a flat plate whose image areas take ink and whose wet areas refuse it, transferred (offset) to a rubber blanket and then to paper; the workhorse of commercial printing.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
Printing from a flat plate whose image areas take ink and whose wet areas refuse it, transferred (offset) to a rubber blanket and then to paper; the workhorse of commercial printing.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
oil pastelEnglish
A soft stick of pigment mixed with oil and wax. It is bright, creamy and blends easily.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2)
A soft stick of pigment mixed with oil and wax. It is bright, creamy and blends easily.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 2)
oil sketchEnglish
A quick, loosely painted study made to capture light, color and weather rather than detail.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
A quick, loosely painted study made to capture light, color and weather rather than detail.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
one-color testEnglish
Reducing a mark to solid black (and reversed white) to check that it survives without color, gradients or effects — as it must on a fax, a stamp, an engraving or a one-color print job.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
Reducing a mark to solid black (and reversed white) to check that it survives without color, gradients or effects — as it must on a fax, a stamp, an engraving or a one-color print job.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
one-point perspectiveEnglish
Perspective with a single vanishing point, used when you look straight down a road, hallway or row.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
Perspective with a single vanishing point, used when you look straight down a road, hallway or row.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
opacity / flowEnglish
Opacity caps how strongly a layer or stroke covers; flow is how much paint each pass of the brush lays down, letting strokes build up like real media.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
Opacity caps how strongly a layer or stroke covers; flow is how much paint each pass of the brush lays down, letting strokes build up like real media.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
opaqueEnglish
Not letting light through; covering what is underneath.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3)
Not letting light through; covering what is underneath.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3)
opaque and transparentEnglish
Opaque paint covers what is underneath; transparent paint lets the layer below show through.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
Opaque paint covers what is underneath; transparent paint lets the layer below show through.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
opaque pigmentEnglish
A pigment that blocks light and covers what is beneath it, such as titanium white, the cadmium colors and yellow ochre.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
A pigment that blocks light and covers what is beneath it, such as titanium white, the cadmium colors and yellow ochre.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
open license (OFL)English
The SIL Open Font License used by most Google Fonts: free to use, embed and sell work with, even commercially; the font files themselves may not be resold.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
The SIL Open Font License used by most Google Fonts: free to use, embed and sell work with, even commercially; the font files themselves may not be resold.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
open sourceEnglish
Software whose source code is public and free to use and improve, like Penpot, Inkscape, Krita and GIMP. For a student it means professional capability at zero cost, forever.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
Software whose source code is public and free to use and improve, like Penpot, Inkscape, Krita and GIMP. For a student it means professional capability at zero cost, forever.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
oppositeEnglish
On the other side. A cast shadow falls on the side opposite the light.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2)
On the other side. A cast shadow falls on the side opposite the light.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 2)
optical mixingEnglish
Color mixed in the eye rather than on the palette, as when a blue glaze over yellow looks green.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
Color mixed in the eye rather than on the palette, as when a blue glaze over yellow looks green.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
optical spacingEnglish
Spacing letters so the areas between them look equal rather than measuring equal distances; straight-sided pairs need more room than round or open pairs.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
Spacing letters so the areas between them look equal rather than measuring equal distances; straight-sided pairs need more room than round or open pairs.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
organic shapeEnglish
A free, uneven shape like those found in nature: a leaf, a cloud, a puddle.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2)
A free, uneven shape like those found in nature: a leaf, a cloud, a puddle.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2)
orthogonal linesEnglish
Lines that go back into space and lead to the vanishing point.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4)
Lines that go back into space and lead to the vanishing point.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4)
orthogonalsEnglish
Lines that go straight back into the picture and meet at the vanishing point.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 7)
Lines that go straight back into the picture and meet at the vanishing point.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 7)
outlineEnglish
The line around the outside of a shape.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
The line around the outside of a shape.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
ovalEnglish
A stretched circle, shaped like an egg.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
A stretched circle, shaped like an egg.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
overheadEnglish
The costs of being in business before any project starts: computer and software, insurance, workspace, internet, marketing, professional fees. Freelancers must recover it through their rate.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 4.3 (Ages 14+) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 4.3 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
The costs of being in business before any project starts: computer and software, insurance, workspace, internet, marketing, professional fees. Freelancers must recover it through their rate.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 4.3 (Ages 14+) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 4.3 (Ages 10–13) · +1 more
overlapEnglish
When one thing is in front of another and covers part of it.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
When one thing is in front of another and covers part of it.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
oxidationEnglish
A chemical reaction with oxygen in the air. Oil paint dries by oxidation, not by evaporation.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 7) · Grade 4 Cooking & Food, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Geography: Physical Geography: The Earth’s Systems, Lesson 4.1 (grade 6)
A chemical reaction with oxygen in the air. Oil paint dries by oxidation, not by evaporation.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 7) · Grade 4 Cooking & Food, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Geography: Physical Geography: The Earth’s Systems, Lesson 4.1 (grade 6)
P
package priceEnglish
A single quoted price for a defined scope (estimated hours × rate, plus rounds and deliverables named), which clients prefer to open-ended hourly billing.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
A single quoted price for a defined scope (estimated hours × rate, plus rounds and deliverables named), which clients prefer to open-ended hourly billing.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
page turnEnglish
In a picture book, the moment of surprise or suspense when the reader turns to the next spread.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8)
In a picture book, the moment of surprise or suspense when the reader turns to the next spread.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8)
paintEnglish
Colored powder mixed with something sticky and wet, so it can be brushed on and will stay.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade K)
Colored powder mixed with something sticky and wet, so it can be brushed on and will stay.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade K)
paletteEnglish
A plate or tray where a painter puts and mixes paint.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade K)
A plate or tray where a painter puts and mixes paint.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade K)
palmEnglish
The flat inside of the hand between the wrist and the fingers; about as long as the middle finger.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5)
The flat inside of the hand between the wrist and the fingers; about as long as the middle finger.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5)
palm massEnglish
The block-like part of the hand between the wrist and the knuckles, which can be drawn as a slightly tapered box.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
The block-like part of the hand between the wrist and the knuckles, which can be drawn as a slightly tapered box.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
Pantone Matching System (PMS)English
The 1963 standard by Lawrence Herbert: numbered ink formulas and printed swatch books, so a color can be ordered by number anywhere in the world and match.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
The 1963 standard by Lawrence Herbert: numbered ink formulas and printed swatch books, so a color can be ordered by number anywhere in the world and match.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
paper weightEnglish
How heavy and thick a paper is; heavier paper is stiffer and holds water better.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
How heavy and thick a paper is; heavier paper is stiffer and holds water better.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
parableEnglish
A short story Jesus told to teach a truth about God.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 1) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · +3 more
A short story Jesus told to teach a truth about God.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 1) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · +3 more
parallelEnglish
Lines that go the same direction and never meet, like railroad tracks.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Earth Science: The Sky: Sun, Moon and Stars, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
Lines that go the same direction and never meet, like railroad tracks.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Earth Science: The Sky: Sun, Moon and Stars, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
pastelEnglish
A soft, light color, like baby blue or pale pink.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 1) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
A soft, light color, like baby blue or pale pink.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 1) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
pathEnglish
A vector line or shape defined by nodes and the curve segments between them; open (a line) or closed (a shape).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · +2 more
A vector line or shape defined by nodes and the curve segments between them; open (a line) or closed (a shape).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.3 (grade 9–12) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · +2 more
patronEnglish
A person or group who pays an artist to make a work of art.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5) · Grade 5 Geography: Explorers, Navigators and Missionaries, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5)
A person or group who pays an artist to make a work of art.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5) · Grade 5 Geography: Explorers, Navigators and Missionaries, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5)
patternEnglish
Lines, shapes or colors that repeat in a regular way.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade K) · +3 more
Lines, shapes or colors that repeat in a regular way.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade K) · +3 more
PDF/XEnglish
A strict PDF standard for printing (PDF/X-1a, X-4) that embeds fonts, fixes colors and forbids surprises; the lingua franca between designers and presses.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
A strict PDF standard for printing (PDF/X-1a, X-4) that embeds fonts, fixes colors and forbids surprises; the lingua franca between designers and presses.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
peasantEnglish
In old times, a farm worker who lived on the land and grew food.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 1)
In old times, a farm worker who lived on the land and grew food.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 1)
pen angleEnglish
The angle of the pen’s edge to the writing line, kept constant to give letters a consistent rhythm.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+)
The angle of the pen’s edge to the writing line, kept constant to give letters a consistent rhythm.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+)
pencil gradeEnglish
The letter and number on a pencil. H pencils are hard and light; B pencils are soft and dark. HB is in the middle.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4)
The letter and number on a pencil. H pencils are hard and light; B pencils are soft and dark. HB is in the middle.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4)
perspectiveEnglish
A way of drawing that makes a flat picture look deep, with things farther away looking smaller.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 1.2 (grade 10) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 8.2 (grade 11) · +1 more
A way of drawing that makes a flat picture look deep, with things farther away looking smaller.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 1.2 (grade 10) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 8.2 (grade 11) · +1 more
perspective centerEnglish
The true middle of a wall in perspective, found by drawing an X from corner to corner.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8)
The true middle of a wall in perspective, found by drawing an X from corner to corner.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8)
piazzaEnglish
An Italian word for a large public square, often paved with stone.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4)
An Italian word for a large public square, often paved with stone.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4)
picaEnglish
The traditional unit of page measure: 1 pica = 12 points, and 6 picas = 1 inch. A letter page is 51 picas wide and 66 picas tall. Written 4p6 for 4 picas 6 points.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12)
The traditional unit of page measure: 1 pica = 12 points, and 6 picas = 1 inch. A letter page is 51 picas wide and 66 picas tall. Written 4p6 for 4 picas 6 points.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12)
pictorial symbolEnglish
A recognizable object drawn as the mark — an apple, a shell, a bird.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
A recognizable object drawn as the mark — an apple, a shell, a bird.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
picture planeEnglish
The imaginary flat window, the surface of your paper, through which you look at the scene.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 7) · Architecture & Civil Engineering, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
The imaginary flat window, the surface of your paper, through which you look at the scene.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 7) · Architecture & Civil Engineering, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
pigmentEnglish
The colored powder that gives crayons, paints and pencils their color.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
The colored powder that gives crayons, paints and pencils their color.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
pinch potEnglish
A small bowl made by pressing a thumb into a ball of clay and pinching the sides.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade K)
A small bowl made by pressing a thumb into a ball of clay and pinching the sides.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade K)
pipe foldEnglish
A long, tube-shaped fold that forms when cloth hangs from one point or line, like a curtain.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
A long, tube-shaped fold that forms when cloth hangs from one point or line, like a curtain.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
pitched roofEnglish
A roof with two sloping sides meeting at a ridge.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8)
A roof with two sloping sides meeting at a ridge.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8)
pixelEnglish
One square of a raster image's grid, carrying a single color; short for picture element.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 5 Earth Science: The Sky: Sun, Moon and Stars, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
One square of a raster image's grid, carrying a single color; short for picture element.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 5 Earth Science: The Sky: Sun, Moon and Stars, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
pixel (px)English
The CSS unit for screens, defined at 96 per inch, so 1\ \text{px} = 0.75\ \text{pt} and 16 px = 12 pt.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
The CSS unit for screens, defined at 96 per inch, so 1\ \text{px} = 0.75\ \text{pt} and 16 px = 12 pt.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
placementEnglish
Where something is put on the page. Lower usually means closer; higher usually means farther.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Spanish, Lesson 4.1 (grade 5)
Where something is put on the page. Lower usually means closer; higher usually means farther.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Spanish, Lesson 4.1 (grade 5)
planar headEnglish
A simplified model of the head made of flat facets, used by artists to understand how light falls on the face.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8)
A simplified model of the head made of flat facets, used by artists to understand how light falls on the face.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8)
plane of distanceEnglish
A band of the landscape at roughly the same distance, such as the near field or the far mountains.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 6)
A band of the landscape at roughly the same distance, such as the near field or the far mountains.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 6)
planes of distanceEnglish
Separate layers of a landscape, each a step farther away and a step lighter and cooler.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 7)
Separate layers of a landscape, each a step farther away and a step lighter and cooler.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 7)
plein airEnglish
French for “open air.” Painting outdoors, looking at the real place.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 7) · +1 more
French for “open air.” Painting outdoors, looking at the real place.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 7) · +1 more
plumb lineEnglish
A straight up-and-down (vertical) line you sight to check which parts of a subject line up with each other.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 7) · +3 more
A straight up-and-down (vertical) line you sight to check which parts of a subject line up with each other.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 7) · +3 more
point (pt)English
The printer's unit of type size: exactly 1/72 inch since digital type (1984), about 0.3528 mm.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
The printer's unit of type size: exactly 1/72 inch since digital type (1984), about 0.3528 mm.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
portfolioEnglish
A collection of an artist’s best work.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
A collection of an artist’s best work.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
portfolio platformEnglish
A site that hosts creative portfolios (Behance is the big free one). Convenient and searchable, but you follow its rules and sit beside its other content; many professionals also keep a site of their own.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
A site that hosts creative portfolios (Behance is the big free one). Convenient and searchable, but you follow its rules and sit beside its other content; many professionals also keep a site of their own.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
portfolio reviewEnglish
The interview's center: you walk a reviewer through selected pieces, two to three minutes each, presenting the brief, constraints, decisions and result — then take questions and sometimes critique on the spot.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
The interview's center: you walk a reviewer through selected pieces, two to three minutes each, presenting the brief, constraints, decisions and result — then take questions and sometimes critique on the spot.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
portraitEnglish
A picture of a real person.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
A picture of a real person.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4) · +3 more
poseEnglish
The position a person or animal holds while you draw them.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
The position a person or animal holds while you draw them.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
positive and negative spaceEnglish
Positive space is the subject; negative space is the area around it. In notan both are designed shapes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 7)
Positive space is the subject; negative space is the area around it. In notan both are designed shapes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 7)
positive shapeEnglish
The shape of the thing itself, like a tree, a cup or a bird.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 1)
The shape of the thing itself, like a tree, a cup or a bird.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 1)
positive spaceEnglish
The space taken up by the subject itself, such as the chair or the branch.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
The space taken up by the subject itself, such as the chair or the branch.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
potterEnglish
A person who makes pots and dishes from clay.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1)
A person who makes pots and dishes from clay.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1)
power pointsEnglish
The four places where the thirds lines cross; strong spots for a focal point.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 6)
The four places where the thirds lines cross; strong spots for a focal point.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 6)
PPI (pixels per inch)English
How densely an image's pixels are spread at a chosen print size. The same file has many possible PPIs; only pixels are fixed. Print standard is 300 PPI at final size.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
How densely an image's pixels are spread at a chosen print size. The same file has many possible PPIs; only pixels are fixed. Print standard is 300 PPI at final size.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
pregnant momentEnglish
The single moment in a story that best suggests what came before and what will come after.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8)
The single moment in a story that best suggests what came before and what will come after.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8)
preparatory drawingEnglish
A study made to plan part of a larger work, such as a head, hand or fold of drapery.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
A study made to plan part of a larger work, such as a head, hand or fold of drapery.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
presenting oneEnglish
The practice of recommending a single best solution (with the exploration shown as evidence) rather than laying out options like a menu — you were hired to solve, not to offer.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
The practice of recommending a single best solution (with the exploration shown as evidence) rather than laying out options like a menu — you were hired to solve, not to offer.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
pressureEnglish
How hard you press your crayon or pencil on the paper.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 2) · Food Science, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
How hard you press your crayon or pencil on the paper.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 2) · Food Science, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
pressure sensitivityEnglish
A tablet pen reports how hard you press, mapped to size or opacity, recovering the hand's expressiveness that a mouse lacks.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
A tablet pen reports how hard you press, mapped to size or opacity, recovering the hand's expressiveness that a mouse lacks.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12)
primary colorsEnglish
Red, yellow and blue. They cannot be made by mixing other paint colors.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
Red, yellow and blue. They cannot be made by mixing other paint colors.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
principle of designEnglish
A way of arranging the elements of art in a picture, such as balance, emphasis or movement.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 6)
A way of arranging the elements of art in a picture, such as balance, emphasis or movement.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 6)
principles of designEnglish
The ways the elements are arranged: balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern and rhythm, proportion, and unity with variety.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
The ways the elements are arranged: balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern and rhythm, proportion, and unity with variety.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
printEnglish
A picture made by pressing an inked or painted surface onto paper.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade K) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1)
A picture made by pressing an inked or painted surface onto paper.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade K) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1)
printer's deviceEnglish
A printer's emblem printed in his books — Fust and Schöffer used twin shields in the 1457 Mainz Psalter; Aldus Manutius used the anchor and dolphin from 1502.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
A printer's emblem printed in his books — Fust and Schöffer used twin shields in the 1457 Mainz Psalter; Aldus Manutius used the anchor and dolphin from 1502.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
printing plateEnglish
The block or sheet that carries the design, such as wood, linoleum or foam.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
The block or sheet that carries the design, such as wood, linoleum or foam.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
ProcreateEnglish
Savage Interactive's iPad painting app (2011), a one-time purchase beloved by illustrators; needs an iPad and pencil.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
Savage Interactive's iPad painting app (2011), a one-time purchase beloved by illustrators; needs an iPad and pencil.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
prodigalEnglish
Wasteful. The prodigal son wasted his father’s gift.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 1)
Wasteful. The prodigal son wasted his father’s gift.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 1)
production artistEnglish
The specialist who prepares approved designs for printing or publishing: correct files, sizes, colors and formats, with no errors.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
The specialist who prepares approved designs for printing or publishing: correct files, sizes, colors and formats, with no errors.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
prototypeEnglish
Frames wired together with interactions — tap this button, go to that screen — so a design can be walked through and tested before any code exists.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2) · +3 more
Frames wired together with interactions — tap this button, go to that screen — so a design can be walked through and tested before any code exists.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2) · +3 more
Prussian blueEnglish
The first modern synthetic pigment, discovered by accident in Berlin around 1704–06; cheap, strong and deep, it reached Japan as 'Berlin blue' and made Hokusai's wave possible.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
The first modern synthetic pigment, discovered by accident in Berlin around 1704–06; cheap, strong and deep, it reached Japan as 'Berlin blue' and made Hokusai's wave possible.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
public domainEnglish
Works whose copyright has expired or never existed — in the U.S., generally works published before 1930, plus U.S. government works. Free for any use; this course's picture studies live there.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12)
Works whose copyright has expired or never existed — in the U.S., generally works published before 1930, plus U.S. government works. Free for any use; this course's picture studies live there.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12)
pulpEnglish
Fibers mashed up with water into a soupy mush. Paper is made from pulp.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.1 (Ages 14+) · +2 more
Fibers mashed up with water into a soupy mush. Paper is made from pulp.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.1 (Ages 14+) · +2 more
punch, matrix and mouldEnglish
The three-step system of type founding: a hardened steel punch carries the letter, it is struck into soft copper to make a matrix, and the matrix drops into an adjustable hand mould where molten metal casts a fresh piece of type.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
The three-step system of type founding: a hardened steel punch carries the letter, it is struck into soft copper to make a matrix, and the matrix drops into an adjustable hand mould where molten metal casts a fresh piece of type.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
pyramidal compositionEnglish
An arrangement of figures that fits into a triangle or pyramid shape, giving stability and unity.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5)
An arrangement of figures that fits into a triangle or pyramid shape, giving stability and unity.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5)
Q
quillEnglish
A pen made from a large bird feather, cut to a point at the hollow end.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Explore Crafts and Making, Stop 3.3 (Ages 7–9) · +1 more
A pen made from a large bird feather, cut to a point at the hollow end.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 7.3 (grade 1) · Explore Crafts and Making, Stop 3.3 (Ages 7–9) · +1 more
quote (estimate)English
The written price for a defined scope before work begins: estimated hours × rate, plus expenses and rights, often presented as two or three options at different scopes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
The written price for a defined scope before work begins: estimated hours × rate, plus expenses and rights, often presented as two or three options at different scopes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
R
radial balanceEnglish
Balance in which parts spread out from a center, like the spokes of a wheel or a rose window.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8)
Balance in which parts spread out from a center, like the spokes of a wheel or a rose window.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8)
radial symmetryEnglish
When matching parts repeat around a center point, like the spokes of a wheel or the petals of a daisy.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Life Science: Classification, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
When matching parts repeat around a center point, like the spokes of a wheel or the petals of a daisy.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Life Science: Classification, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4)
rainbowEnglish
A bow of colors in the sky when the sun shines through raindrops.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 4.3 (grade K) · Kindergarten Life Science: God Made the Animals, Lesson 8.3 (grade K)
A bow of colors in the sky when the sun shines through raindrops.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 4.3 (grade K) · Kindergarten Life Science: God Made the Animals, Lesson 8.3 (grade K)
rainbow orderEnglish
Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple (sometimes called indigo and violet at the end).
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade K)
Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple (sometimes called indigo and violet at the end).
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade K)
raster (bitmap) imageEnglish
A picture stored as a fixed grid of pixels; photographs, scans and digital paintings. Resizing up spreads the same pixels thinner.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
A picture stored as a fixed grid of pixels; photographs, scans and digital paintings. Resizing up spreads the same pixels thinner.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
rationaleEnglish
The reasoning that connects each design decision back to the client's brief; presented before the reveal so the work is seen through its purpose.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
The reasoning that connects each design decision back to the client's brief; presented before the reveal so the work is seen through its purpose.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.5 (grade 9–12)
reading gravityEnglish
The habit of eyes trained on Western text: enter top-left, drift left-to-right and downward, exit bottom-right.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
The habit of eyes trained on Western text: enter top-left, drift left-to-right and downward, exit bottom-right.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
real textureEnglish
Texture you can actually feel with your fingers, like tree bark or a fuzzy blanket.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · +1 more
Texture you can actually feel with your fingers, like tree bark or a fuzzy blanket.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 3) · +1 more
rectangleEnglish
A shape with four straight sides and four square corners; two sides are longer than the other two.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade K) · Geometry, Lesson 13.2 (grade 9–10) · +1 more
A shape with four straight sides and four square corners; two sides are longer than the other two.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade K) · Geometry, Lesson 13.2 (grade 9–10) · +1 more
recto / versoEnglish
The right-hand page (recto, always odd-numbered) and left-hand page (verso, always even). Books begin on a recto.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12)
The right-hand page (recto, always odd-numbered) and left-hand page (verso, always even). Books begin on a recto.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12)
red chalk (sanguine)English
A natural reddish-brown chalk colored by iron oxide, used by Leonardo and many Renaissance artists for figure and head studies.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
A natural reddish-brown chalk colored by iron oxide, used by Leonardo and many Renaissance artists for figure and head studies.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
redlinesEnglish
The old handoff method: printed mockups marked up by hand with every measurement in red ink. Modern tools generate measurements automatically, but the responsibility for completeness is still the designer's.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
The old handoff method: printed mockups marked up by hand with every measurement in red ink. Modern tools generate measurements automatically, but the responsibility for completeness is still the designer's.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
reductive drawingEnglish
Covering the paper with tone first and then removing (lifting) the lights with an eraser.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6)
Covering the paper with tone first and then removing (lifting) the lights with an eraser.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6)
redundant codingEnglish
Never letting color be the only carrier of meaning: pair it with value difference, labels, shapes or patterns, so the message survives any eye.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
Never letting color be the only carrier of meaning: pair it with value difference, labels, shapes or patterns, so the message survives any eye.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
referenceEnglish
A photo or real subject you look at while drawing.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 9.1 (grade 4) · Personal Finance & Investing, Lesson 1.3 (grade 9–12) · +2 more
A photo or real subject you look at while drawing.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 9.1 (grade 4) · Personal Finance & Investing, Lesson 1.3 (grade 9–12) · +2 more
reflected lightEnglish
Light that bounces back onto the shadow side of an object from the table or wall nearby.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · +3 more
Light that bounces back onto the shadow side of an object from the table or wall nearby.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · +3 more
refractionEnglish
The bending of light as it passes through glass or water, which distorts what is seen behind it.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8) · Grade 8 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
The bending of light as it passes through glass or water, which distorts what is seen behind it.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8) · Grade 8 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
registerEnglish
A horizontal band or strip in which figures stand, stacked one above another like lines of writing.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6) · Personal Finance & Investing, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
A horizontal band or strip in which figures stand, stacked one above another like lines of writing.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 6) · Personal Finance & Investing, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
registrationEnglish
Recording a work with the U.S. Copyright Office (copyright.gov, modest fee). Not required for ownership, but required before filing an infringement suit, and timely registration unlocks statutory damages and attorney's fees.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Investment Adviser Exam Prep: Series 65, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
Recording a work with the U.S. Copyright Office (copyright.gov, modest fee). Not required for ownership, but required before filing an infringement suit, and timely registration unlocks statutory damages and attorney's fees.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12) · Investment Adviser Exam Prep: Series 65, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12)
registration (®, TM)English
TM claims a mark in use; ® means the mark is officially registered (in the US, with the USPTO under the Lanham Act of 1946). Registration strengthens legal protection; using ® without registration is unlawful.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
TM claims a mark in use; ® means the mark is officially registered (in the US, with the USPTO under the Lanham Act of 1946). Registration strengthens legal protection; using ® without registration is unlawful.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12)
relative luminance (L)English
A number from 0 (black) to 1 (white) expressing how bright a color is to the human eye, with green weighted most because the eye is most sensitive to it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
A number from 0 (black) to 1 (white) expressing how bright a color is to the human eye, with green weighted most because the eye is most sensitive to it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
relative temperatureEnglish
The idea that a color is warm or cool only compared with the colors next to it; a green can be warm next to a blue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7)
The idea that a color is warm or cool only compared with the colors next to it; a green can be warm next to a blue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 7)
reliefEnglish
A sculpture in which shapes rise out of a flat background, like the picture on a coin.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3) · Grade 8 Earth Science: Earth Resources and Careers, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8) · Grade 6 Geography: Physical Geography: The Earth’s Systems, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6) · +2 more
A sculpture in which shapes rise out of a flat background, like the picture on a coin.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3) · Grade 8 Earth Science: Earth Resources and Careers, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8) · Grade 6 Geography: Physical Geography: The Earth’s Systems, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6) · +2 more
relief printEnglish
A print made from the raised parts of a surface. The cut-away parts stay white.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
A print made from the raised parts of a surface. The cut-away parts stay white.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4)
remEnglish
A relative unit equal to the root text size, 16 px by default: 1\,\text{rem} = 16\,\text{px}, so 1.5 rem is 24 px. Designs in rem scale when the reader enlarges text.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
A relative unit equal to the root text size, 16 px by default: 1\,\text{rem} = 16\,\text{px}, so 1.5 rem is 24 px. Designs in rem scale when the reader enlarges text.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
Rembrandt lightingEnglish
Lighting from above and to one side that leaves a small triangle of light on the shadow-side cheek; it is still used by portrait photographers today.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 7)
Lighting from above and to one side that leaves a small triangle of light on the shadow-side cheek; it is still used by portrait photographers today.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 7)
RenaissanceEnglish
A French word meaning “rebirth”: the time in Europe from about 1300 to 1600 when art, learning and science flourished.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5) · +2 more
A French word meaning “rebirth”: the time in Europe from about 1300 to 1600 when art, learning and science flourished.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 5) · +2 more
renderingEnglish
The browser's act of turning HTML and CSS into drawn pixels. Different screens render the same page at different sizes, which is why screen design never fixes the page width.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12) · Architecture & Civil Engineering, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
The browser's act of turning HTML and CSS into drawn pixels. Different screens render the same page at different sizes, which is why screen design never fixes the page width.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12) · Architecture & Civil Engineering, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 9.5 (grade 9–12)
repeatEnglish
To do the same thing again and again. Repeated lines can look like waves or wind.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade K) · +3 more
To do the same thing again and again. Repeated lines can look like waves or wind.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade K) · +3 more
repetitionEnglish
Using the same thing again and again.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · +1 more
Using the same thing again and again.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Grade 4 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable Grown Up, and Narrative, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · +1 more
resistEnglish
To push away or not let in. Wax resists water.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade K)
To push away or not let in. Wax resists water.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade K)
responsive designEnglish
One design that adapts its layout to any screen width, built from fluid grids, flexible images and media queries. Named by Ethan Marcotte in 2010.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
One design that adapts its layout to any screen width, built from fluid grids, flexible images and media queries. Named by Ethan Marcotte in 2010.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.3 (grade 9–12)
restorationEnglish
Treating a damaged work to bring it closer to its original appearance, such as removing yellow varnish or filling losses.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 2.5 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
Treating a damaged work to bring it closer to its original appearance, such as removing yellow varnish or filling losses.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8) · Grade 7 Composition & Creative Writing: Commonplace, Encomium and Invective, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 2.5 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
reversalEnglish
A mirror shows you reversed left to right, so a self-portrait shows you as you see yourself, not as others see you.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Composition & Creative Writing: Comparison, Characterization and Description, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
A mirror shows you reversed left to right, so a self-portrait shows you as you see yourself, not as others see you.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Composition & Creative Writing: Comparison, Characterization and Description, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
reverseEnglish
Backwards, like a mirror image. A print comes out reversed from the stamp.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2)
Backwards, like a mirror image. A print comes out reversed from the stamp.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2)
reversibilityEnglish
The rule that anything a conservator adds must be removable later without harming the original.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
The rule that anything a conservator adds must be removable later without harming the original.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
revisionEnglish
The new version produced in answer to notes; professional agreements typically include two or three rounds.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 5.4 (grade 10) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 8.1 (grade 10) · +3 more
The new version produced in answer to notes; professional agreements typically include two or three rounds.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 5.4 (grade 10) · Grade 10 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis II and the Proposal of Law, Lesson 8.1 (grade 10) · +3 more
revision roundEnglish
One cycle of requested changes. Professional agreements include a set number (commonly two); changes beyond scope or after approval are billed additionally.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
One cycle of requested changes. Professional agreements include a set number (commonly two); changes beyond scope or after approval are billed additionally.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
RGBEnglish
The additive screen system: each pixel's red, green and blue channels are set from 0 to 255, giving 256^3 = 16{,}777{,}216 possible mixtures.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
The additive screen system: each pixel's red, green and blue channels are set from 0 to 255, giving 256^3 = 16{,}777{,}216 possible mixtures.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
rhythmEnglish
A repeated pattern of shapes, lines or colors that creates a beat, like music.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · +2 more
A repeated pattern of shapes, lines or colors that creates a beat, like music.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 5) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 3 Composition & Creative Writing: The Fable and the First Story, Lesson 5.1 (grade 3) · +2 more
rib vaultEnglish
A stone ceiling built on crossing arched ribs, which carry the weight to a few points instead of along the whole wall.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6)
A stone ceiling built on crossing arched ribs, which carry the weight to a few points instead of along the whole wall.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6)
ridgeEnglish
The top line of a roof, where the two slopes meet.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 5) · Explore Great Battles, Stop 4.1 (Ages 7–9) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3–5)
The top line of a roof, where the two slopes meet.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 5) · Explore Great Battles, Stop 4.1 (Ages 7–9) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3–5)
romanEnglish
The upright letterform we still read today, modeled on ancient Roman capitals and humanist handwriting; perfected in type by Nicolas Jenson in 1470.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
The upright letterform we still read today, modeled on ancient Roman capitals and humanist handwriting; perfected in type by Nicolas Jenson in 1470.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
RomanesqueEnglish
The style of European churches from about 1000 to 1150, with round arches, thick walls, small windows and heavy stone vaults.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
The style of European churches from about 1000 to 1150, with round arches, thick walls, small windows and heavy stone vaults.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
RomanticismEnglish
A movement of the late 1700s and early 1800s that valued deep feeling, the grandeur of nature and the individual imagination.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
A movement of the late 1700s and early 1800s that valued deep feeling, the grandeur of nature and the individual imagination.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
rose windowEnglish
A large round stained-glass window in a church, divided into sections that spread out from the center.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5)
A large round stained-glass window in a church, divided into sections that spread out from the center.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5)
roundEnglish
A brush with a pointed tip, for lines, details and washes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Geography: God Made the Earth: My First Maps, Lesson 2.1 (grade K) · +2 more
A brush with a pointed tip, for lines, details and washes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 7) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 9.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Geography: God Made the Earth: My First Maps, Lesson 2.1 (grade K) · +2 more
round brushEnglish
A brush with a pointed tip, good for lines, details and small shapes.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
A brush with a pointed tip, good for lines, details and small shapes.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 3)
royaltyEnglish
A percentage of each copy's price paid to the creator — commonly around 10% of list price on a hardcover picture book, split between author and illustrator.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Business & Finance, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · +1 more
A percentage of each copy's price paid to the creator — commonly around 10% of list price on a hardcover picture book, split between author and illustrator.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 4 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Business & Finance, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · +1 more
rubbingEnglish
A picture made by putting paper over a bumpy surface and rubbing it with the side of a crayon.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade K) · Grade 1 Life Science: Animal Homes and Habits, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1)
A picture made by putting paper over a bumpy surface and rubbing it with the side of a crayon.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade K) · Grade 1 Life Science: Animal Homes and Habits, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1)
rubricationEnglish
Adding headings or initial letters in red (from the Latin ruber, red) to guide the reader.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8)
Adding headings or initial letters in red (from the Latin ruber, red) to guide the reader.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8)
rule of thirdsEnglish
Dividing a picture into three equal parts across and three equal parts down, and placing important things along those lines or where they cross.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
Dividing a picture into three equal parts across and three equal parts down, and placing important things along those lines or where they cross.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
running headEnglish
The small repeated line at the top of pages giving the book, chapter or section name, a courtesy to the browsing reader.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12)
The small repeated line at the top of pages giving the book, chapter or section name, a courtesy to the browsing reader.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12)
S
saddle stitchEnglish
Binding by folding sheets and stapling through the fold; it requires the total page count to be a multiple of four.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 5.4 (grade 12)
Binding by folding sheets and stapling through the fold; it requires the total page count to be a multiple of four.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 5.4 (grade 12)
safe areaEnglish
The region of a graphic guaranteed visible and unobstructed — away from edges that get cropped and corners where the platform lays its own buttons, captions or timestamps over your design.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
The region of a graphic guaranteed visible and unobstructed — away from edges that get cropped and corners where the platform lays its own buttons, captions or timestamps over your design.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
safe marginEnglish
The keep-inside zone, typically 1/8 to 1/4 in inside the trim, where text and logos must stay so the cutter cannot clip them.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
The keep-inside zone, typically 1/8 to 1/4 in inside the trim, where text and logos must stay so the cutter cannot clip them.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
scaleEnglish
How big or small something is drawn compared to other things.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
How big or small something is drawn compared to other things.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 2) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Business & Finance, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
scale factorEnglish
The number every measurement is multiplied by to change size: k = \text{drawing} / \text{actual}. The same k must be used for every part, or the drawing is out of proportion.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12) · Architecture & Civil Engineering, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12) · Geometry, Lesson 11.6 (grade 9–10) · +3 more
The number every measurement is multiplied by to change size: k = \text{drawing} / \text{actual}. The same k must be used for every part, or the drawing is out of proportion.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12) · Architecture & Civil Engineering, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12) · Geometry, Lesson 11.6 (grade 9–10) · +3 more
scale figuresEnglish
Small people added to a scene to show its size and to bring it to life.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8)
Small people added to a scene to show its size and to bring it to life.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8)
scale testEnglish
Viewing a mark at favicon size (16 pixels) and at sign size to check it stays legible and balanced at both extremes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
Viewing a mark at favicon size (16 pixels) and at sign size to check it stays legible and balanced at both extremes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
scalesEnglish
Small, hard, overlapping plates that cover fish and snakes.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade K) · Explore Dinosaurs, Stop 3.7 (Ages 7–9) · Explore Dinosaurs, Stop 4.3 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
Small, hard, overlapping plates that cover fish and snakes.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade K) · Explore Dinosaurs, Stop 3.7 (Ages 7–9) · Explore Dinosaurs, Stop 4.3 (Ages 7–9) · +3 more
scatteringEnglish
The way tiny particles of air and moisture bounce light around, especially blue light, which makes the sky and distant hills look blue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 7) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4)
The way tiny particles of air and moisture bounce light around, especially blue light, which makes the sky and distant hills look blue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 7) · Grade 4 Earth Science: Weather and Water, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4)
scissors safetyEnglish
Walk with scissors closed and pointing down. Cut away from your fingers. Hand them to someone handle first.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade K)
Walk with scissors closed and pointing down. Cut away from your fingers. Hand them to someone handle first.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade K)
scopeEnglish
The boundary of the agreed work; 'scope creep' is the polite name for unpaid extras, and the cure is a courteous quote for the addition.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 6.3 (grade 11) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 1.2 (grade 12) · +1 more
The boundary of the agreed work; 'scope creep' is the polite name for unpaid extras, and the cure is a courteous quote for the addition.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 6.3 (grade 11) · Grade 12 Composition & Creative Writing: Capstone: Rhetoric and the Senior Thesis, Lesson 1.2 (grade 12) · +1 more
scoreEnglish
To scratch little lines in clay so two pieces can grip each other.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 3.4 (Ages 10–13)
To scratch little lines in clay so two pieces can grip each other.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Explore Crafts and Making · Ranger, Stop 3.4 (Ages 10–13)
score and slipEnglish
Scratching crisscross lines on two pieces of clay and adding slip (clay mixed with water) before pressing them together, so they hold.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4)
Scratching crisscross lines on two pieces of clay and adding slip (clay mixed with water) before pressing them together, so they hold.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4)
screen angles / rosetteEnglish
Each CMYK halftone is rotated (commonly K 45°, M 75°, C 15°, Y 0°) so the dot grids interlock in tiny flower-like rosettes instead of clashing into moiré patterns.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
Each CMYK halftone is rotated (commonly K 45°, M 75°, C 15°, Y 0°) so the dot grids interlock in tiny flower-like rosettes instead of clashing into moiré patterns.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12)
scriptoriumEnglish
The room in a monastery where monks copied books.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
The room in a monastery where monks copied books.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
sculptureEnglish
A work of art that is a form, not flat; you can walk around it.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade K)
A work of art that is a form, not flat; you can walk around it.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade K)
sculpture in the roundEnglish
A sculpture you can walk all the way around and see from every side.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
A sculpture you can walk all the way around and see from every side.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 3)
seccoEnglish
Painting on dry plaster. It allows slower work but bonds less well and flakes more easily.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
Painting on dry plaster. It allows slower work but bonds less well and flakes more easily.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 7)
secondary colorEnglish
A color made by mixing two primary colors: orange, green or purple.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1)
A color made by mixing two primary colors: orange, green or purple.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1)
secondary colorsEnglish
Orange, green and purple. Each is made by mixing two primary colors.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
Orange, green and purple. Each is made by mixing two primary colors.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
self-portraitEnglish
A picture an artist makes of himself or herself.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 3) · +3 more
A picture an artist makes of himself or herself.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 3) · +3 more
series paintingEnglish
Painting the same subject many times at different times of day or seasons, as Monet did with haystacks and cathedrals.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
Painting the same subject many times at different times of day or seasons, as Monet did with haystacks and cathedrals.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 8)
serifEnglish
The small finishing stroke at the end of a letter's main strokes; typefaces without them are called sans serif.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
The small finishing stroke at the end of a letter's main strokes; typefaces without them are called sans serif.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
sfumatoEnglish
Italian for “smoky”: Leonardo’s way of blending tones so softly that edges seem to melt, with no hard lines.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
Italian for “smoky”: Leonardo’s way of blending tones so softly that edges seem to melt, with no hard lines.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
shadeEnglish
A darker color made by adding a little black.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
A darker color made by adding a little black.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
shadingEnglish
Coloring lighter and darker to make something look round or solid.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2)
Coloring lighter and darker to make something look round or solid.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2)
shadowEnglish
A dark shape made when something blocks the light.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 5.2 (grade K) · +1 more
A dark shape made when something blocks the light.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 5.2 (grade K) · +1 more
shadow sideEnglish
The side of an object that faces away from the light; it is darker.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2)
The side of an object that faces away from the light; it is darker.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 2)
shady sideEnglish
The side of an object turned away from the sun. It looks darker.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade K)
The side of an object turned away from the sun. It looks darker.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade K)
shapeEnglish
A flat space with an edge all the way around it, made when a line meets itself.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
A flat space with an edge all the way around it, made when a line meets itself.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 3) · +3 more
shape languageEnglish
The family of shapes an artist favors (round, boxy, angular, flowing) and uses consistently to build figures and scenes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
The family of shapes an artist favors (round, boxy, angular, flowing) and uses consistently to build figures and scenes.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
shape vs. formEnglish
A shape is flat and has two dimensions (height and width). A form has three dimensions (height, width and depth) or is drawn to look as if it does.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6)
A shape is flat and has two dimensions (height and width). A form has three dimensions (height, width and depth) or is drawn to look as if it does.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6)
side lightEnglish
Light coming from one side of a subject, often from a window, which models forms strongly.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
Light coming from one side of a subject, often from a window, which models forms strongly.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
sightingEnglish
Holding up a pencil at arm’s length to measure and compare sizes of what you see.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
Holding up a pencil at arm’s length to measure and compare sizes of what you see.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
signatureEnglish
A group of sheets folded together to form a section of a book, sewn through the fold.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · +3 more
A group of sheets folded together to form a section of a book, sewn through the fold.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · +3 more
silhouetteEnglish
A dark shape of something with no details inside, like a shadow.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 2) · +3 more
A dark shape of something with no details inside, like a shadow.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 2) · +3 more
silverpointEnglish
An old way of drawing with a sharp silver wire on specially coated paper, used before pencils.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6)
An old way of drawing with a sharp silver wire on specially coated paper, used before pencils.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 6)
simple shapesEnglish
Circles, ovals, squares, rectangles and triangles. Artists start drawings with these.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
Circles, ovals, squares, rectangles and triangles. Artists start drawings with these.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade K)
simultaneous contrastEnglish
Chevreul's 1839 law: colors side by side push each other apart in appearance, each tinting its neighbor toward its own complement and shifting its apparent value.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
Chevreul's 1839 law: colors side by side push each other apart in appearance, each tinting its neighbor toward its own complement and shifting its apparent value.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
sizingEnglish
A coating or ingredient added to paper so water and ink do not soak in and spread too fast.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
A coating or ingredient added to paper so water and ink do not soak in and spread too fast.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
skeletonEnglish
The single-line structure of a letter before any weight is added; lettering lives or dies by its skeleton.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
The single-line structure of a letter before any weight is added; lettering lives or dies by its skeleton.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Earth Science: Rocks, Water and Weather, Lesson 7.1 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · +3 more
sketchEnglish
A light, quick drawing that helps plan a picture.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12) · +2 more
A light, quick drawing that helps plan a picture.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12) · +2 more
sketch approvalEnglish
The gate where the AD signs off a tight sketch; changes are cheap before it and expensive after it, which is why finals begin only after approval.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
The gate where the AD signs off a tight sketch; changes are cheap before it and expensive after it, which is why finals begin only after approval.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
sketchbookEnglish
A bound book of drawing paper used for practice, study, planning and recording what you see.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6)
A bound book of drawing paper used for practice, study, planning and recording what you see.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6)
skyEnglish
In a picture, the sky comes all the way down to the horizon, not just a blue stripe at the top.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade K)
In a picture, the sky comes all the way down to the horizon, not just a blue stripe at the top.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade K)
sky holesEnglish
Small openings in a tree’s foliage where the sky shows through, which make a tree look airy instead of solid.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7)
Small openings in a tree’s foliage where the sky shows through, which make a tree look airy instead of solid.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 7)
skyingEnglish
Constable’s word for his many quick studies of clouds and sky.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
Constable’s word for his many quick studies of clouds and sky.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
slabEnglish
A flat sheet of clay rolled to an even thickness, like cookie dough.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3)
A flat sheet of clay rolled to an even thickness, like cookie dough.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3)
slipEnglish
Clay mixed with water until it is like thick cream. It works like glue for clay.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4)
Clay mixed with water until it is like thick cream. It works like glue for clay.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4)
soft edgeEnglish
A blurred, gradual boundary between light and shadow.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
A blurred, gradual boundary between light and shadow.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8)
spaceEnglish
The feeling of depth or distance in a picture.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
The feeling of depth or distance in a picture.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 6) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
Spanish Golden AgeEnglish
The great period of Spanish art and literature, roughly 1500–1680, the time of Velázquez, Zurbarán and Murillo.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7)
The great period of Spanish art and literature, roughly 1500–1680, the time of Velázquez, Zurbarán and Murillo.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 7)
specimen sheetEnglish
A printed sheet or book showing everything a type foundry offers, used by printers to choose and buy type; Caslon's 1734 sheet is the most famous.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
A printed sheet or book showing everything a type foundry offers, used by printers to choose and buy type; Caslon's 1734 sheet is the most famous.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.1 (grade 9–12)
specular highlightEnglish
The small, sharp, bright reflection of the light source on a shiny surface.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8)
The small, sharp, bright reflection of the light source on a shiny surface.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8)
Spencerian scriptEnglish
The dominant American handwriting style of the 1800s, taught by Platt Rogers Spencer; the Coca-Cola wordmark is Spencerian.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
The dominant American handwriting style of the 1800s, taught by Platt Rogers Spencer; the Coca-Cola wordmark is Spencerian.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.5 (grade 9–12)
sphereEnglish
A form that is round in every direction, like a ball or a bubble.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3) · +2 more
A form that is round in every direction, like a ball or a bubble.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 3) · +2 more
spiralEnglish
A line that curls around and around a center, like a snail’s shell.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade K) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
A line that curls around and around a center, like a snail’s shell.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade K) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
split complementaryEnglish
One color plus the two colors on either side of its complement, such as blue with yellow-orange and red-orange.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
One color plus the two colors on either side of its complement, such as blue with yellow-orange and red-orange.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
split-complementaryEnglish
One color plus the two colors on either side of its complement, such as blue with yellow-orange and red-orange.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
One color plus the two colors on either side of its complement, such as blue with yellow-orange and red-orange.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
spot colorEnglish
A premixed ink of exactly one color, printed from its own plate rather than built from CMYK dots; specified by a standard number such as a Pantone number.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
A premixed ink of exactly one color, printed from its own plate rather than built from CMYK dots; specified by a standard number such as a Pantone number.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12)
spotlightEnglish
A bright light on one part of a picture, so we look there first.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 1)
A bright light on one part of a picture, so we look there first.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 1)
spreadEnglish
Two facing pages seen together when a book lies open, designed as one unit.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
Two facing pages seen together when a book lies open, designed as one unit.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.3 (grade 9–12) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
squareEnglish
A shape with four straight sides that are all the same length and four corners.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade K) · Kindergarten Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.2 (grade K) · Shop & Trades, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
A shape with four straight sides that are all the same length and four corners.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade K) · Kindergarten Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.2 (grade K) · Shop & Trades, Lesson 4.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
squintingEnglish
Half-closing your eyes to blur details so you can see the big shapes of light and dark.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
Half-closing your eyes to blur details so you can see the big shapes of light and dark.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
stagingEnglish
Arranging figures, setting and viewpoint so the action is instantly clear.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8) · Real Estate Investing: Rentals, House Hacks and Deal Analysis, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 8 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · +1 more
Arranging figures, setting and viewpoint so the action is instantly clear.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8) · Real Estate Investing: Rentals, House Hacks and Deal Analysis, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 8 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · +1 more
stained glassEnglish
Colored glass pieces fitted together to make a picture in a window.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5)
Colored glass pieces fitted together to make a picture in a window.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 5)
stampEnglish
An object with a raised design that is inked and pressed to make a print.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1) · +2 more
An object with a raised design that is inked and pressed to make a print.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Grade 1 Business & Finance, Lesson 2.3 (grade 1) · +2 more
stateEnglish
One of a component's appearances: default, hover (pointer over it), active (being pressed), focus (selected by keyboard), and disabled (currently unavailable). A professional designs all five.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · +3 more
One of a component's appearances: default, hover (pointer over it), active (being pressed), focus (selected by keyboard), and disabled (currently unavailable). A professional designs all five.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · Electronics & Microcontrollers, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · +3 more
static and dynamicEnglish
A static pose is still and balanced; a dynamic pose shows movement or effort.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7)
A static pose is still and balanced; a dynamic pose shows movement or effort.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7)
still lifeEnglish
A picture of things that do not move, such as fruit, bowls and flowers set on a table.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
A picture of things that do not move, such as fruit, bowls and flowers set on a table.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 5) · +3 more
stipplingEnglish
Shading with many small dots. More dots packed closer together make a darker value.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4)
Shading with many small dots. More dots packed closer together make a darker value.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4)
storyboardEnglish
A series of small sketches planning the sequence of pictures in a story or book.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Expert, Stop 4.8 (Ages 14+) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Ranger, Stop 4.8 (Ages 10–13)
A series of small sketches planning the sequence of pictures in a story or book.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 8) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Expert, Stop 4.8 (Ages 14+) · Explore Horses and Ponies · Ranger, Stop 4.8 (Ages 10–13)
straight lineEnglish
A line that does not bend, like the edge of a table.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade K)
A line that does not bend, like the edge of a table.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade K)
street corner viewEnglish
A view looking at a block of buildings corner-first, drawn in two-point perspective.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 6)
A view looking at a block of buildings corner-first, drawn in two-point perspective.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 6)
stroke contrast and axisEnglish
How much a letter's strokes vary from thick to thin, and the angle of that variation; old-style letters have a tilted axis like a broad pen, Didones a vertical one.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
How much a letter's strokes vary from thick to thin, and the angle of that variation; old-style letters have a tilted axis like a broad pen, Didones a vertical one.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
studio / agency designerEnglish
A designer employed by a firm that serves many clients — high variety and mentorship, fast pace, deadline pressure. The classic apprenticeship environment of the trade.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
A designer employed by a firm that serves many clients — high variety and mentorship, fast pace, deadline pressure. The classic apprenticeship environment of the trade.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.4 (grade 9–12)
studyEnglish
A practice drawing made to learn about something, like a horse’s leg or head.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 2) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6) · Grade 5 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5)
A practice drawing made to learn about something, like a horse’s leg or head.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 2) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 6) · Grade 5 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 5)
styleEnglish
The recognizable sum of an artist's repeated decisions — line quality, shape language, palette, subjects, degree of finish — visible across many works.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
The recognizable sum of an artist's repeated decisions — line quality, shape language, palette, subjects, degree of finish — visible across many works.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
subjectEnglish
The main thing a picture is about.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade K) · Grade 4 Latin, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Latin, Lesson 4.1 (grade 5)
The main thing a picture is about.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade K) · Grade 4 Latin, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Latin, Lesson 4.1 (grade 5)
subordinateEnglish
Less important parts of a picture, kept quieter so they do not compete with the focal point.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5)
Less important parts of a picture, kept quieter so they do not compete with the focal point.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 5)
subordinationEnglish
Making other parts of a picture quieter (lower contrast, softer edges, duller color) so the focal point can stand out.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 3.1 (grade 11)
Making other parts of a picture quieter (lower contrast, softer edges, duller color) so the focal point can stand out.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8) · Grade 11 Composition & Creative Writing: The Persuasive and Research Essay, Lesson 3.1 (grade 11)
subtractive color (CMY)English
Mixing pigments or inks, each of which absorbs (subtracts) part of the light; mixing makes darker colors. Paint and print work this way.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12)
Mixing pigments or inks, each of which absorbs (subtracts) part of the light; mixing makes darker colors. Paint and print work this way.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.1 (grade 9–12)
subtractive sculptureEnglish
Sculpture made by taking material away, such as carving stone, wood or soap.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4)
Sculpture made by taking material away, such as carving stone, wood or soap.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4)
sunny sideEnglish
The side of an object that faces the sun. It looks bright.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade K)
The side of an object that faces the sun. It looks bright.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade K)
sunriseEnglish
The time in the morning when the sun comes up.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 5.1 (grade K) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1)
The time in the morning when the sun comes up.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade K) · Kindergarten Earth Science: God Made the Ground and Sky, Lesson 5.1 (grade K) · Grade 1 Geography: Maps and Journeys, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1)
superfamilyEnglish
A family built in several classifications on shared bones, such as a serif, a sans and a mono that match: Source Serif, Source Sans and Source Code, or IBM Plex.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
A family built in several classifications on shared bones, such as a serif, a sans and a mono that match: Source Serif, Source Sans and Source Code, or IBM Plex.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
supportEnglish
The physical surface a painting is made on: a wooden panel, stretched canvas, paper, copper or a wall.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7) · Investment Adviser Exam Prep: Series 65, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
The physical surface a painting is made on: a wooden panel, stretched canvas, paper, copper or a wall.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 7) · Investment Adviser Exam Prep: Series 65, Lesson 5.5 (grade 9–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
SVGEnglish
Scalable Vector Graphics, the open vector file format of the web and Inkscape's native language; readable as plain text instructions.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
Scalable Vector Graphics, the open vector file format of the web and Inkscape's native language; readable as plain text instructions.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
symbol drawingEnglish
Drawing what you think something looks like (a football-shaped eye, an L-shaped nose) instead of what you actually see.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 6)
Drawing what you think something looks like (a football-shaped eye, an L-shaped nose) instead of what you actually see.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 6)
symmetrical balanceEnglish
When the two sides of a picture are the same or almost the same around a center line.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · +1 more
When the two sides of a picture are the same or almost the same around a center line.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · +1 more
symmetryEnglish
When one half of something matches the other half, like a mirror image.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
When one half of something matches the other half, like a mirror image.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 7)
synthetic pigmentEnglish
A pigment made in a factory by chemistry rather than dug from the earth.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5)
A pigment made in a factory by chemistry rather than dug from the earth.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5)
T
tabEnglish
A small flap folded at the bottom of a paper piece so it can be glued down and stand up.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1)
A small flap folded at the bottom of a paper piece so it can be glued down and stand up.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 1)
tag / elementEnglish
A labeled wrapper in HTML. <h1>Bread</h1> is a level-one heading element: an opening tag, the content, and a closing tag.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
A labeled wrapper in HTML. <h1>Bread</h1> is a level-one heading element: an opening tag, the content, and a closing tag.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
tailoringEnglish
Adjusting which ten pieces lead for a particular reader: branding work for a brand studio, screen work for a product team, illustration for an art director (Lesson 7.3's markets, applied).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
Adjusting which ten pieces lead for a particular reader: branding work for a brand studio, screen work for a product team, illustration for an art director (Lesson 7.3's markets, applied).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
tanninEnglish
A bitter plant substance (in oak galls, walnut hulls, tea and bark) that reacts with iron to form a dark color.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 4.6 (Ages 14+) · Explore Dinosaurs · Ranger, Stop 4.6 (Ages 10–13)
A bitter plant substance (in oak galls, walnut hulls, tea and bark) that reacts with iron to form a dark color.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8) · Explore Dinosaurs · Expert, Stop 4.6 (Ages 14+) · Explore Dinosaurs · Ranger, Stop 4.6 (Ages 10–13)
temperaEnglish
A paint that dries flat and bright. Long ago it was made with egg yolk; today’s school tempera uses other binders.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1)
A paint that dries flat and bright. Long ago it was made with egg yolk; today’s school tempera uses other binders.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 1)
tempera paint (school)English
Today’s washable poster paint, made of pigment, chalk or clay fillers and a water-soluble glue such as starch or cellulose.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4)
Today’s washable poster paint, made of pigment, chalk or clay fillers and a water-soluble glue such as starch or cellulose.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4)
templateEnglish
A locked layout with defined editable zones (headline, image, date) that produces consistent, on-brand graphics quickly — the design-once, use-fifty-times discipline.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
A locked layout with defined editable zones (headline, image, date) that produces consistent, on-brand graphics quickly — the design-once, use-fifty-times discipline.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
tenebrismEnglish
An extreme kind of chiaroscuro in which most of the picture is in deep darkness and a few forms are lit as if by a spotlight. From the Italian tenebroso, “murky.”
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 6)
An extreme kind of chiaroscuro in which most of the picture is in deep darkness and a few forms are lit as if by a spotlight. From the Italian tenebroso, “murky.”
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 6)
terminatorEnglish
The edge where the lit side of a form turns into shadow; it marks where light can no longer reach.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8) · +2 more
The edge where the lit side of a form turns into shadow; it marks where light can no longer reach.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8) · +2 more
tertiary colorsEnglish
In-between colors like red-orange or blue-green, made by mixing a primary color with the secondary color next to it.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4) · +1 more
In-between colors like red-orange or blue-green, made by mixing a primary color with the secondary color next to it.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4) · +1 more
tesseraeEnglish
The little pieces used to make a mosaic. One piece is a tessera.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 2)
The little pieces used to make a mosaic. One piece is a tessera.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 2)
text blockEnglish
The rectangle on a page that holds the main text.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12)
The rectangle on a page that holds the main text.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.1 (grade 9–12)
textureEnglish
How the surface of something feels: smooth, rough, bumpy or soft.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
How the surface of something feels: smooth, rough, bumpy or soft.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 1) · Grade 1 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
the 100-drawings habitEnglish
Volume practice: drawing one subject (or one kind of thing) a hundred times, so your preferences surface and your decisions become deliberate.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
Volume practice: drawing one subject (or one kind of thing) a hundred times, so your preferences surface and your decisions become deliberate.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.4 (grade 9–12)
the five parts of lightEnglish
Highlight, light (with halftones), core shadow, reflected light and cast shadow.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4)
Highlight, light (with halftones), core shadow, reflected light and cast shadow.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4)
the sublimeEnglish
The feeling of awe, even fear, before nature’s vastness and power, such as a storm at sea or a mountain avalanche.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
The feeling of awe, even fear, before nature’s vastness and power, such as a storm at sea or a mountain avalanche.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 8)
the telling momentEnglish
The single instant an artist chooses that best reveals what came before and what will come after.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7)
The single instant an artist chooses that best reveals what came before and what will come after.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 7)
the vital momentEnglish
Pyle's term for the single instant of a story that carries the most meaning — often just before or after the action, not during it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
Pyle's term for the single instant of a story that carries the most meaning — often just before or after the action, not during it.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.1 (grade 9–12)
thick lineEnglish
A wide, bold line. Thick lines look strong and heavy.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade K)
A wide, bold line. Thick lines look strong and heavy.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade K)
thin lineEnglish
A narrow, light line. Thin lines look delicate and are good for small details.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade K)
A narrow, light line. Thin lines look delicate and are good for small details.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade K)
thirds of the faceEnglish
The face from hairline to chin divides into three roughly equal parts: hairline to brow, brow to bottom of nose, bottom of nose to chin.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 6)
The face from hairline to chin divides into three roughly equal parts: hairline to brow, brow to bottom of nose, bottom of nose to chin.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 6)
three-point perspectiveEnglish
A method in which vertical lines also converge, toward a third vanishing point far above or below the horizon.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8)
A method in which vertical lines also converge, toward a third vanishing point far above or below the horizon.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8)
three-quarter viewEnglish
A view of the face turned partly to one side, between straight-on and full profile.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8)
A view of the face turned partly to one side, between straight-on and full profile.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8)
thresholdEnglish
The all-or-nothing adjustment: every pixel darker than the cutoff becomes black, everything lighter becomes white; the final step to true 1-bit line art.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12) · Food Science, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
The all-or-nothing adjustment: every pixel darker than the cutoff becomes black, everything lighter becomes white; the final step to true 1-bit line art.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12) · Food Science, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12) · Engineering Design, Robotics & Drones, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
thumb massEnglish
The fleshy pad at the base of the thumb, which connects the thumb to the wrist, not to the side of the palm.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
The fleshy pad at the base of the thumb, which connects the thumb to the wrist, not to the side of the palm.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
thumbnail sketchEnglish
A small, quick sketch used to try out ideas for a composition.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · +1 more
A small, quick sketch used to try out ideas for a composition.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · +1 more
thumbnail sketchingEnglish
Generating many small, fast, rough mark ideas — fifty is the professional discipline — before judging any of them.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
Generating many small, fast, rough mark ideas — fifty is the professional discipline — before judging any of them.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
thumbnail testEnglish
Judging a design at the smallest size it will actually be seen — often 120 px wide or less. If the message dies at thumbnail size, the design fails, whatever it looks like full-screen.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
Judging a design at the smallest size it will actually be seen — often 120 px wide or less. If the message dies at thumbnail size, the design fails, whatever it looks like full-screen.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.4 (grade 9–12)
thumbnailsEnglish
Several small, fast compositional options (often 3–5) sent for the art director's choice before any careful drawing begins.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
Several small, fast compositional options (often 3–5) sent for the art director's choice before any careful drawing begins.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.5 (grade 9–12)
tintEnglish
A lighter color made by adding a color to white, like pink from red and white.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 3) · +2 more
A lighter color made by adding a color to white, like pink from red and white.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 3) · +2 more
tint, shade, toneEnglish
A color plus white (tint), plus black (shade), or plus gray (tone): the main ways one hue becomes a whole family.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
A color plus white (tint), plus black (shade), or plus gray (tone): the main ways one hue becomes a whole family.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
toneEnglish
Another word for value: the lightness or darkness of an area.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8) · Grade 8 Composition & Creative Writing: Comparison, Characterization and Description, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Grade 9 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis I and the Full Essay, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9) · +1 more
Another word for value: the lightness or darkness of an area.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8) · Grade 8 Composition & Creative Writing: Comparison, Characterization and Description, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Grade 9 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis I and the Full Essay, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9) · +1 more
toned groundEnglish
Paper covered with an even middle value before drawing begins.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
Paper covered with an even middle value before drawing begins.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7)
toned paperEnglish
Paper that is a middle value (gray, tan or brown) instead of white, so you can draw both darks and lights on it.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3)
Paper that is a middle value (gray, tan or brown) instead of white, so you can draw both darks and lights on it.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 3)
toothEnglish
The tiny bumps and roughness on the surface of paper that grab and hold pencil, charcoal or pastel.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
The tiny bumps and roughness on the surface of paper that grab and hold pencil, charcoal or pastel.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 6) · +1 more
touch targetEnglish
The tappable area around a control. Apple's Human Interface Guidelines call for at least 44 × 44 points; Google's Material Design calls for 48 × 48 dp — both roughly a 9 mm fingertip.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
The tappable area around a control. Apple's Human Interface Guidelines call for at least 44 × 44 points; Google's Material Design calls for 48 × 48 dp — both roughly a 9 mm fingertip.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
toy bookEnglish
The cheap, color-printed children's picture books of Victorian England, sold for sixpence or a shilling; the ancestors of the modern picture book.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12)
The cheap, color-printed children's picture books of Victorian England, sold for sixpence or a shilling; the ancestors of the modern picture book.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.2 (grade 9–12)
traceEnglish
To draw around the edge of something.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade K) · Grade 6 Composition & Creative Writing: Maxim, Refutation and Confirmation, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6)
To draw around the edge of something.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade K) · Grade 6 Composition & Creative Writing: Maxim, Refutation and Confirmation, Lesson 2.4 (grade 6)
trademarkEnglish
A word, name or symbol used in trade to identify the source of goods or services and distinguish them from others'; it protects buyers from confusion and sellers' reputations from theft.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · +1 more
A word, name or symbol used in trade to identify the source of goods or services and distinguish them from others'; it protects buyers from confusion and sellers' reputations from theft.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.1 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 6.2 (grade 9–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12) · +1 more
transeptEnglish
The arms crossing the nave, giving many churches the plan of a cross.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
The arms crossing the nave, giving many churches the plan of a cross.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8)
transferable skillEnglish
Knowledge that moves between tools: layers, Bézier paths, color models, resolution arithmetic, typography. The concepts are the career; the buttons are the week's rental.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
Knowledge that moves between tools: layers, Bézier paths, color models, resolution arithmetic, typography. The concepts are the career; the buttons are the week's rental.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.5 (grade 9–12)
translucencyEnglish
The quality of letting some light pass through, as light glows red through thin fingers or ears.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6)
The quality of letting some light pass through, as light glows red through thin fingers or ears.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6)
translucentEnglish
Lets light shine through, but you cannot see clearly through it, like tissue paper.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2)
Lets light shine through, but you cannot see clearly through it, like tissue paper.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 2)
transparencyEnglish
The quality of a material that lets light and images pass through it, like clear glass or water.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8)
The quality of a material that lets light and images pass through it, like clear glass or water.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8)
transparentEnglish
Letting light pass through, like colored glass.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3)
Letting light pass through, like colored glass.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4) · Grade 3 Earth Science: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils, Lesson 7.1 (grade 3)
transparent constructionEnglish
Drawing a box as if it were made of glass, showing its hidden edges, to check accuracy.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5)
Drawing a box as if it were made of glass, showing its hidden edges, to check accuracy.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5)
transparent pigmentEnglish
A pigment that lets light pass through it, such as alizarin crimson, ultramarine blue or phthalo green.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
A pigment that lets light pass through it, such as alizarin crimson, ultramarine blue or phthalo green.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8)
transversal linesEnglish
Horizontal lines that cross the orthogonals, like the lines between rows of floor tiles.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4)
Horizontal lines that cross the orthogonals, like the lines between rows of floor tiles.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4)
triadEnglish
Three colors evenly spaced around the wheel, such as red, yellow and blue.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
Three colors evenly spaced around the wheel, such as red, yellow and blue.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 6)
triadicEnglish
Three colors evenly spaced around the color wheel, such as red, yellow and blue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
Three colors evenly spaced around the color wheel, such as red, yellow and blue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 7)
triangleEnglish
A shape with three straight sides and three corners, like a slice of pizza or a roof.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade K) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
A shape with three straight sides and three corners, like a slice of pizza or a roof.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 2.2 (grade K) · Grade 1 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 3.2 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 2.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
trim sizeEnglish
The final cut size of the piece, the only size the customer ever sees.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
The final cut size of the piece, the only size the customer ever sees.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
trompe l’oeilEnglish
“Fool the eye”: painting so realistic that it seems to be a real object, as with grisailles that imitate carved stone.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
“Fool the eye”: painting so realistic that it seems to be a real object, as with grisailles that imitate carved stone.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
trompe-l’œilEnglish
French for “deceive the eye”: painting so realistic it seems to be a real object, such as a gray painting that looks like a carved stone statue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7)
French for “deceive the eye”: painting so realistic it seems to be a real object, such as a gray painting that looks like a carved stone statue.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7)
two-point perspectiveEnglish
A perspective system with two vanishing points on the horizon line, used when an object’s corner faces the viewer.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8) · +1 more
A perspective system with two vanishing points on the horizon line, used when an object’s corner faces the viewer.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 6) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8) · +1 more
type familyEnglish
All the related styles of one design: weights (light to black), widths, italics. Inter, for example, ships in nine weights plus italics.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
All the related styles of one design: weights (light to black), widths, italics. Inter, for example, ships in nine weights plus italics.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
type systemEnglish
The brand's typefaces and their jobs: display face, text face, weights and the pairings allowed (Unit 3 skills, written into law).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
The brand's typefaces and their jobs: display face, text face, weights and the pairings allowed (Unit 3 skills, written into law).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.4 (grade 9–12)
typefaceEnglish
A designed set of letters in a particular style; serif typefaces have small finishing strokes, sans-serif typefaces do not.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8)
A designed set of letters in a particular style; serif typefaces have small finishing strokes, sans-serif typefaces do not.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8)
U
UI designerEnglish
A designer of user interfaces — the screens, buttons and menus of apps and websites — where layout decisions must also work when touched and clicked.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
A designer of user interfaces — the screens, buttons and menus of apps and websites — where layout decisions must also work when touched and clicked.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.1 (grade 9–12)
ultramarineEnglish
The blue pigment made from lapis lazuli; its name means “beyond the sea,” because it came to Europe from far away.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5)
The blue pigment made from lapis lazuli; its name means “beyond the sea,” because it came to Europe from far away.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 5)
ultraviolet (UV) lightEnglish
Invisible, high-energy light in sunlight that causes most fading.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5)
Invisible, high-energy light in sunlight that causes most fading.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 5)
underpaintingEnglish
A first layer of a painting, often in one color or in grays, that establishes the values before color is added.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
A first layer of a painting, often in one color or in grays, that establishes the values before color is added.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
unit measurementEnglish
Choosing one part of the subject (a mug's width, a head's height) as the unit, and stating every other length as so-many units.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
Choosing one part of the subject (a mug's width, a head's height) as the unit, and stating every other length as so-many units.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 1.2 (grade 9–12)
unit of measureEnglish
One part, like the head, used to measure the size of all the other parts.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · +2 more
One part, like the head, used to measure the size of all the other parts.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 5) · +2 more
unityEnglish
When all the parts of an artwork work together as a whole.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8) · +3 more
When all the parts of an artwork work together as a whole.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8) · +3 more
unity and varietyEnglish
Unity is the feeling that everything belongs together; variety is the differences that keep it interesting. Good pictures need both.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 6)
Unity is the feeling that everything belongs together; variety is the differences that keep it interesting. Good pictures need both.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 6)
usage rightsEnglish
What the client is allowed to do with the art, for how long, and where; fees rise with broader usage, and the artist keeps what is not sold.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
What the client is allowed to do with the art, for how long, and where; fees rise with broader usage, and the artist keeps what is not sold.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
usage-based pricingEnglish
Pricing that scales with the rights granted (Lesson 10.2): a spot illustration for one local flyer costs less than the same drawing licensed for national packaging — the Graphic Artists Guild Handbook's organizing principle.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
Pricing that scales with the rights granted (Lesson 10.2): a spot illustration for one local flyer costs less than the same drawing licensed for national packaging — the Graphic Artists Guild Handbook's organizing principle.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.3 (grade 9–12)
user flowEnglish
The mapped path from a person's goal to its completion: every screen, tap and decision along the way, drawn as a diagram before any screen is designed.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
The mapped path from a person's goal to its completion: every screen, tap and decision along the way, drawn as a diagram before any screen is designed.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.2 (grade 9–12)
V
valueEnglish
How light or dark a color is.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
How light or dark a color is.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 2) · Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 2) · +3 more
value massEnglish
A large area of similar value that the eye reads as one shape.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
A large area of similar value that the eye reads as one shape.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
value patternEnglish
The overall design of large light, middle and dark shapes in a picture, seen when details are ignored.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
The overall design of large light, middle and dark shapes in a picture, seen when details are ignored.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
value plan (notan)English
The design of a picture's lights and darks alone; the Japanese term notan (dark-light) is used by artists for 2- and 3-value studies.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
The design of a picture's lights and darks alone; the Japanese term notan (dark-light) is used by artists for 2- and 3-value studies.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
value rangeEnglish
The span of values in a picture, from its lightest light to its darkest dark.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
The span of values in a picture, from its lightest light to its darkest dark.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8)
value scaleEnglish
A row of boxes that goes step by step from light to dark.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
A row of boxes that goes step by step from light to dark.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 2) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4) · +3 more
value shapesEnglish
Distinct patches of light, middle and dark that, drawn accurately, create the illusion of a surface.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8)
Distinct patches of light, middle and dark that, drawn accurately, create the illusion of a surface.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8)
value studyEnglish
A small, quick sketch that shows only the main shapes of light, middle and dark values in a picture, without detail.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
A small, quick sketch that shows only the main shapes of light, middle and dark values in a picture, without detail.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 4.1 (grade 7)
vanishing pointEnglish
The point on the horizon line where parallel lines going away from you seem to meet and disappear.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
The point on the horizon line where parallel lines going away from you seem to meet and disappear.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 5) · +3 more
varietyEnglish
Differences in a picture (of size, shape, color, value, direction) that keep it interesting.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · +2 more
Differences in a picture (of size, shape, color, value, direction) that keep it interesting.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.4 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8) · Grade 1 Cooking & Food, Lesson 2.2 (grade 1) · +2 more
varnishEnglish
A clear protective coating on a painting; older natural varnishes turn yellow and cloudy with age.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
A clear protective coating on a painting; older natural varnishes turn yellow and cloudy with age.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8)
vector imageEnglish
A picture stored as mathematical instructions: anchor points, curves, fills and strokes, redrawn fresh at any size; logos, type and diagrams.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
A picture stored as mathematical instructions: anchor points, curves, fills and strokes, redrawn fresh at any size; logos, type and diagrams.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 6.1 (grade 9–12)
vectorizingEnglish
Rebuilding the refined sketch as clean Bézier geometry so the mark scales infinitely — drawn deliberately with few nodes, not auto-traced.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
Rebuilding the refined sketch as clean Bézier geometry so the mark scales infinitely — drawn deliberately with few nodes, not auto-traced.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.3 (grade 9–12)
vedutaEnglish
Italian for “view”: a detailed, accurate painting of a city, popular in the 1700s.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8)
Italian for “view”: a detailed, accurate painting of a city, popular in the 1700s.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8)
vehicleEnglish
The liquid part of a paint, the binder plus anything used to thin it (such as water).
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 7) · Grade 6 Composition & Creative Writing: Maxim, Refutation and Confirmation, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6) · Grade 9 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis I and the Full Essay, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9)
The liquid part of a paint, the binder plus anything used to thin it (such as water).
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 7) · Grade 6 Composition & Creative Writing: Maxim, Refutation and Confirmation, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6) · Grade 9 Composition & Creative Writing: Thesis I and the Full Essay, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9)
vellumEnglish
Fine writing material made from calfskin, scraped thin and smooth.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade K) · +3 more
Fine writing material made from calfskin, scraped thin and smooth.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · Grade 6 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 6) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade K) · +3 more
verdaccio and brunailleEnglish
Underpaintings in green-gray (verdaccio) or brown (brunaille) instead of gray.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
Underpaintings in green-gray (verdaccio) or brown (brunaille) instead of gray.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8)
verticalEnglish
Standing straight up and down, like a tree or a tall tower.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
Standing straight up and down, like a tree or a tall tower.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 2)
viewfinderEnglish
A small frame you look through to choose a view.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 7)
A small frame you look through to choose a view.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 1.3 (grade 5) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 6.4 (grade 7)
vine charcoalEnglish
Light, soft sticks of charred vine or willow that make gray marks and erase easily.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6)
Light, soft sticks of charred vine or willow that make gray marks and erase easily.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 4.2 (grade 6)
vine (or willow) charcoalEnglish
Thin sticks of charred grapevine or willow twigs; soft, gray-black, and easy to erase.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6)
Thin sticks of charred grapevine or willow twigs; soft, gray-black, and easy to erase.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6)
vinyl eraserEnglish
A firm white plastic eraser that removes marks thoroughly and makes clean edges, but can rough up the paper if overused.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
A firm white plastic eraser that removes marks thoroughly and makes clean edges, but can rough up the paper if overused.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 5.4 (grade 6)
visual hierarchyEnglish
The order in which a viewer notices and reads things, controlled by size, weight, color and placement.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8)
The order in which a viewer notices and reads things, controlled by size, weight, color and placement.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8)
visual weightEnglish
How much a part of a picture attracts the eye; big, dark, bright or detailed things look heavier.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
How much a part of a picture attracts the eye; big, dark, bright or detailed things look heavier.
Grade 3 Art, Lesson 8.2 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 5) · Grade 8 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8) · +1 more
vocationEnglish
From the Latin vocare, to call: work received as a calling to serve God and neighbor through skill, not merely a market position. The school's motto applies — fabricando fit faber, the maker is made by making.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Economics & the History of Money, Lesson 1.5 (grade 11–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
From the Latin vocare, to call: work received as a calling to serve God and neighbor through skill, not merely a market position. The school's motto applies — fabricando fit faber, the maker is made by making.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12) · Economics & the History of Money, Lesson 1.5 (grade 11–12) · Entrepreneurship & Sales, Lesson 1.4 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
volumeEnglish
The look of three-dimensional bulk and weight in a figure or form.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5) · Grade 3 Business & Finance, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Real Estate License Exam Prep: The National Exam, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
The look of three-dimensional bulk and weight in a figure or form.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 8.1 (grade 5) · Grade 3 Business & Finance, Lesson 6.4 (grade 3) · Real Estate License Exam Prep: The National Exam, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12) · +3 more
W
walkthroughEnglish
Presenting your portfolio aloud, piece by piece, in a review or interview — typically two or three minutes per piece, decisions first, apologies never.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
Presenting your portfolio aloud, piece by piece, in a review or interview — typically two or three minutes per piece, decisions first, apologies never.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12)
wall labelEnglish
A small card beside an artwork giving its title, the artist, the date, the medium and sometimes a short description.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8)
A small card beside an artwork giving its title, the artist, the date, the medium and sometimes a short description.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 8.4 (grade 8)
walnut inkEnglish
A warm brown ink made by boiling the outer hulls of walnuts.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
A warm brown ink made by boiling the outer hulls of walnuts.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8)
warm and cool colorsEnglish
Warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows) feel sunny and lively; cool colors (blues, greens, violets) feel calm and quiet.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
Warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows) feel sunny and lively; cool colors (blues, greens, violets) feel calm and quiet.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.4 (grade 9–12)
warm colorsEnglish
Red, orange and yellow: the colors of fire, the sun and autumn leaves.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · +1 more
Red, orange and yellow: the colors of fire, the sun and autumn leaves.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 1) · Grade 3 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 3) · Grade 5 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 5) · +1 more
warm light, cool shadowEnglish
When light is warm (sunlight, a lamp), shadows tend to look cool, and when light is cool (overcast sky, north light), shadows tend to look warm.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6)
When light is warm (sunlight, a lamp), shadows tend to look cool, and when light is cool (overcast sky, north light), shadows tend to look warm.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.4 (grade 6)
warpEnglish
The long strips or threads that stay still on the loom.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3–5) · +2 more
The long strips or threads that stay still on the loom.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3–5) · +2 more
watercolorEnglish
A paint made of pigment and a gum, mixed with water so it flows and shows through.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1)
A paint made of pigment and a gum, mixed with water so it flows and shows through.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1)
wavy lineEnglish
A line that goes up and down in soft curves, like water.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
A line that goes up and down in soft curves, like water.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
waxEnglish
A smooth, slippery material, like a candle, that water cannot soak into.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade K)
A smooth, slippery material, like a candle, that water cannot soak into.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade K)
WCAGEnglish
The W3C's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (version 2.0, 2008, and successors), the standard that sets the 4.5:1 and 3:1 contrast thresholds used across the industry and in many laws.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
The W3C's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (version 2.0, 2008, and successors), the standard that sets the 4.5:1 and 3:1 contrast thresholds used across the industry and in many laws.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 4.5 (grade 9–12)
weavingEnglish
Making cloth or a mat by passing strips or threads over and under each other.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Threads & Weaving, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
Making cloth or a mat by passing strips or threads over and under each other.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Threads & Weaving, Lesson 2.1 (grade 9–12)
web fontEnglish
A font file the page loads so every visitor sees the same typeface. Google Fonts serves hundreds of them free, including Inter, Lora and Source Serif.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
A font file the page loads so every visitor sees the same typeface. Google Fonts serves hundreds of them free, including Inter, Lora and Source Serif.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 9.1 (grade 9–12)
wedgeEnglish
The simple shape of the foot from the side: high at the ankle and sloping down to the toes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7) · Explore Great Battles · Ranger, Stop 1.4 (Ages 10–13)
The simple shape of the foot from the side: high at the ankle and sloping down to the toes.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7) · Explore Great Battles · Ranger, Stop 1.4 (Ages 10–13)
weftEnglish
The strips or threads that go over and under the warp, side to side.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3–5) · +2 more
The strips or threads that go over and under the warp, side to side.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 6.3 (grade 2) · Grade 4 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 2.2 (grade 3–5) · +2 more
weight and styleEnglish
The darkness of a face (Regular 400, Bold 700, and so on) and its variants (italic, condensed); hierarchy within one family is built from these.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
The darkness of a face (Regular 400, Bold 700, and so on) and its variants (italic, condensed); hierarchy within one family is built from these.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.3 (grade 9–12)
weight shiftEnglish
The way the body tilts when weight rests more on one leg: the hips tilt one way and the shoulders tilt the other (also called contrapposto).
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7) · Grade 3 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3)
The way the body tilts when weight rests more on one leg: the hips tilt one way and the shoulders tilt the other (also called contrapposto).
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 2.1 (grade 7) · Grade 3 Engineering & Physics, Lesson 7.3 (grade 3)
wet-on-dryEnglish
Painting wet paint onto dry paper, so the edges stay sharp.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2)
Painting wet paint onto dry paper, so the edges stay sharp.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2)
wet-on-wetEnglish
Painting wet paint onto paper that is already wet, so the colors spread and blend softly.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2)
Painting wet paint onto paper that is already wet, so the colors spread and blend softly.
Grade 2 Art, Lesson 5.1 (grade 2)
white spaceEnglish
Empty space around and between elements, which gives the design room to breathe.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
Empty space around and between elements, which gives the design room to breathe.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.3 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.4 (grade 9–12)
widow and orphanEnglish
A paragraph's last line stranded at the top of a column (widow) or its first line stranded at the bottom (orphan); both are fixed by editing or spacing, not ignored.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
A paragraph's last line stranded at the top of a column (widow) or its first line stranded at the bottom (orphan); both are fixed by editing or spacing, not ignored.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
window lightEnglish
Daylight coming through a window from one side; it falls off gradually as it goes deeper into the room.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5)
Daylight coming through a window from one side; it falls off gradually as it goes deeper into the room.
Grade 5 Art, Lesson 4.4 (grade 5)
woodblock printEnglish
A picture made by carving a block of wood, inking it, laying paper on top and rubbing the back.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade K) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places · Ranger, Stop 4.7 (Ages 10–13) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places, Stop 4.7 (Ages 7–9)
A picture made by carving a block of wood, inking it, laying paper on top and rubbing the back.
Kindergarten Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade K) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places · Ranger, Stop 4.7 (Ages 10–13) · Explore Travel and Faraway Places, Stop 4.7 (Ages 7–9)
woodcutEnglish
A relief print made by carving a design into a block of wood.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Geography: Explorers, Navigators and Missionaries, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5)
A relief print made by carving a design into a block of wood.
Grade 4 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4) · Grade 5 Geography: Explorers, Navigators and Missionaries, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 2.1 (grade 5)
wordmarkEnglish
The full name set or drawn as the mark itself (a styled company name with no separate symbol).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
The full name set or drawn as the mark itself (a styled company name with no separate symbol).
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 8.2 (grade 9–12)
work made for hireEnglish
Work owned by the employer from the start: everything an employee creates within their job, or a freelancer's work only if it fits one of nine statutory categories and both parties signed a written work-for-hire agreement.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12)
Work owned by the employer from the start: everything an employee creates within their job, or a freelancer's work only if it fits one of nine statutory categories and both parties signed a written work-for-hire agreement.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 10.2 (grade 9–12)
worm’s-eye and bird’s-eye viewEnglish
Looking steeply up from below, or steeply down from above.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8)
Looking steeply up from below, or steeply down from above.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8)
worm’s-eye viewEnglish
A view looking steeply up, as from the ground beside a tall building; the third vanishing point is high above.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6)
A view looking steeply up, as from the ground beside a tall building; the third vanishing point is high above.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 6.2 (grade 6)
X
x-heightEnglish
The height of the body of lowercase letters, such as x, a and o, measured in nib widths.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
The height of the body of lowercase letters, such as x, a and o, measured in nib widths.
Grade 8 Art, Lesson 7.1 (grade 8) · Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12) · Explore Crafts and Making · Expert, Stop 3.3 (Ages 14+) · +1 more
Z
zigzag foldEnglish
A fold that bends back and forth, often where cloth is pushed together, as in a sleeve at the elbow.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
A fold that bends back and forth, often where cloth is pushed together, as in a sleeve at the elbow.
Grade 7 Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
zigzag lineEnglish
A line that goes up and down in sharp points, like teeth or a lightning bolt.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
A line that goes up and down in sharp points, like teeth or a lightning bolt.
Grade 1 Art, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Kindergarten Art, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
Zorn paletteEnglish
Yellow ochre, a red (vermilion or cadmium red), ivory black and white, named after the Swedish painter Anders Zorn.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7)
Yellow ochre, a red (vermilion or cadmium red), ivory black and white, named after the Swedish painter Anders Zorn.
Grade 6 Art, Lesson 3.2 (grade 6) · Grade 7 Art, Lesson 3.3 (grade 7)
Z-pattern and F-patternEnglish
Default scanning paths: a Z across sparse layouts (posters, ads); an F down text-heavy pages — top line read, then shorter and shorter leftward skims.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)
Default scanning paths: a Z across sparse layouts (posters, ads); an F down text-heavy pages — top line read, then shorter and shorter leftward skims.
Graphic Design & Illustration, Lesson 2.3 (grade 9–12)