This is an introductory course in the basics of 3D animation. Students gain a solid foundation in the common practices, process and techniques used in the industry today. Some of the concepts that will be explored are key-framing, non-linear animation, realistic and cartoon motion studies. The course starts with the basics of rigging. Rigging is the creation of animation controllers for objects and characters. Topics include, parenting and groups, curve controllers, forward and inverse kinematics and painting skin weights. The course is designed to give students a good foundation in both animation and rigging, with an emphasis on characters and cartoons.