Animated storytelling: first steps

About this course

Learners develop an original short story and translate it into visual plans, a storyboard and a rough animatic. They explore basic animation principles by creating selected moments of movement, with attention to timing, rhythm and expression. The course also introduces sound placement and editing to support narrative clarity. Teaching combines tutor explanations and demonstrations with group discussion, peer feedback and practical exercises. Class activities focus on developing ideas, testing timing, reviewing work and refining the animatic, with some project development between sessions.

What you'll learn

• Develop a clear short story for animation
• Plan narrative and visual sequences using storyboards
• Create a rough animatic that communicates story structure and timing
• Apply basic animation principles to selected moments of movement
• Place and edit simple sound elements to support rhythm and clarity

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for beginners and does not require previous animation experience. It suits learners interested in animation or visual storytelling who are prepared to develop a project through practical exercises, feedback and some work between sessions. Basic drawing ability may be helpful, but the emphasis is on ideas, storytelling and movement rather than technical drawing skill.

• Learners are encouraged to work at their own pace and level.
• Some development work is expected between sessions, including refining drawings, developing the animatic and preparing presentation material.
• The course focuses on storytelling and movement rather than advanced drawing technique.

Before you go

• Learners need an iPad and stylus.
• Learners need to purchase and use the Callipeg app.
• Headphones are required for sound work.
• Some work is expected between sessions, including collecting or recording sound.