Creating Stick Figure Animations using PowerPoint

Today, a student in year 8 who works under the online name of Handanez, demonstrated how to create stop action animations using PowerPoint, her work was inspirational. The animations are created using a succession of slides to create the illusion of movement. With minimum time, students can create their own basic ‘movie’.

Below is a simple step by step guide, on how to create stick figure animations.

1. ENGAGE:
Show students examples of stop action animations which have been created by other students. I used Handanez and Bob’s (online name) examples below (with permission), please note these aren’t basic animations:
Bob Episode 1

Bob Episode 2

2. CREATE A BACKGROUND:
–  If students would like to create their own background, demonstrate how to use the freeform shape tool and how to use the shape fill and shape outline tool. An important tip for all students is to double click on the page to disable the freeform shape tool once they have drawn their shape.
– If students would like to use a pre made background, demonstrate how to format the background. This is done by right clicking on the page, selecting format background and then choosing solid fill or image fill.

3. CREATE A STICK FIGURE:
– Students select a smiley face from the basic shapes and use the shape fill to change the colour.
– The next step is to use the line tool to give the stick character arms and legs.
– Students can use other shape tools if they would like to create an alternative character.

4. DUPLICATE AND EDIT THE SLIDES:
– Right click on the page and select duplicate page. Slightly move the position of an arm or leg or both.
– Duplicate this page and then slightly move an arm or leg again. Repeat this several times.

5. REHEARSE TIMINGS:
– Select slide show and then select rehearse timings.
– The timer will start automatically; students tap the space bar when they would like to select the next page. When they reach the last page they will be prompted to save their timings.

6. VIEW THE ANIMATION:
– Select slide show and then from beginning. Enjoy the simple animation.

Source: Handanez and Bob

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