This section will instruct you on how to use the "Pen Tool" inside ofAdobeIllustrator

When it comes to creating more comlex shapes from scratch, sometimes native shapes just aren't enough. Objects that require greater curves and more dynamic flows to them require a steady hand and a mastery of what is referred to as the "Pen Tool."

Say What Again?

1. The Pen Tool is used to create shapes beyond the basic shapes of circles, squares, polygons and stars (though, you can still use it for that purpose). 
2. Anything created with the Pen Tool, whether it is a line or a shape, is considered a "Path."
3. The Pen Tool uses Points, Nodes and/or Anchors (all three names mean the exact same thing but are different depending on whether you are using an older or newer version of the sofftware)
4. The Pen Tool uses Handle Bars (which display after you select a Point, Node or Anchor with the Direct Select Arrow) to manipulate the points so that they bend in different directions
5. When you reconnect the very last point with the very first point you created, this is considered "Closing the Path."

Create a new folder in your Communications 1/Multimedia folder and title it "Adobe  Illustrator- The Pen Tool Basics"

Your folder should appear as so: 

Open the Adobe Illustrator application (located in your start menu). You will use Adobe Illustator to open each of the .PDF documents (below) and perform the actions required.

Before you get started on the actual files, you need to uncheck some boxes. In Illustrator, click on the top menu and select Edit and then Preferences (at the bottom of the dropdown menu) and then select Selection and Anchor Display. 

In this dialogue box, uncheck these two boxes:

Once you have completed this, you will download these next few files by clicking your right mouse button and then selecting: save target as (Internet Explorer) or save as (Goole Chrome). Be sure to select the "Adobe Illustrator- The Pen Tool" folder as the location where you want to save them.

You will use Adobe Illustator to open each of the .PDF documents (below) and perform the actions required on each document. When you are done, be sure to click on Save to save your document.

• Pen Tool 1
• Pen Tool 2
• Pen Tool 3
• Pen Tool 4
• Pen Tool 5
• Pen Tool 6
• Pen Tool 7
• Pen Tool 8 (There is a hidden dot on this one - you'll have to figure out where it is)
• Pen Tool 9
• Pen Tool 10

STEL 2 Core Concepts of Technology and Engineering

2R: Compare how different technologies involve different sets of processes.

STEL 7 Design in Technology and Engineering Education

70: Apply tools, techniques, and materials in a safe manner as part of the design process

STEL 8: Applying, Maintaining, and Assessing Technological Products and Systems

8D: Follow directions to complete a technological task.

8J: Use devices to control technological systems