Module 0 · Getting Started
Helvetica Reflection
Objectives
- 0.3 Summarize one argument from Helvetica and explain your own position on it, citing where it appears in the film and a typeface you photograph in your own surroundings. (Course Competency 1; Understand)
This assignment measures Module Objective 0.3, which supports Course Competency 1.
Overview
Helvetica (Gary Hustwit, 2007) is a feature-length documentary about typography and graphic design, centered on the typeface of the same name. The designers in the film disagree sharply: some call Helvetica the clearest, most neutral typeface ever drawn; others call it bland corporate wallpaper. This reflection asks you to take a side and support it with something only you can see.
Instructions
How to watch the film
- Open Helvetica on Kanopy, through the GCC Library.
- Select Watch Now, then Log into GCCAZ, and sign in with your MEID (your Maricopa student ID and login) and password.
- The film runs about 80 minutes. Captions are available in the player.
What to submit
- A photograph you take of Helvetica, or of a typeface used in its place, somewhere in your own surroundings: a sign, a package, a storefront, a form. Add alt text.
- 100 words, plus or minus 10, typed into the text box. Name one specific argument someone in the film makes about Helvetica and say roughly where it appears. State whether you agree, and tie your position to the photograph you took.
A summary of the film does not meet this assignment. You are allowed to think a famous designer is wrong; you need to explain why.
AI use
No AI use. Your photograph and your position are the evidence. Log “No AI used.” Record every use in your AI-use log. Gemini is used only with your Maricopa account.
How it is scored
| Criterion | Objective | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Names one specific argument and where it appears in the film | 0.3 | 3 |
| States a position and supports it | 0.3 | 3 |
| Position is tied to your own photograph, with alt text | 0.3 | 3 |
| 100 words, plus or minus 10, complete sentences | 0.3 | 1 |
| Total | 10 | |
Due
Due in Canvas: Thursday, January 21, 12:00 p.m. Arizona time
Hard close: Friday, January 22, 12:00 p.m. Arizona time. Work submitted after the due time and before the hard close loses 10 percent. Nothing is accepted after the hard close.