The first assignment of the semester is a short, 3 to 5 page, essay relating to computer graphics. Students are encouraged to select their own topic, although I will provide some directions and suggestions below. There are two reasons for this assignment. At a very practical level, the goal is to give you practice writing clearly and in an easy to read style. In terms of computer graphics, it will give you an opportunity to research either a current or historical aspect of computer graphics.

Here are a few general suggestions that may spur your thinking about directions and topics.

• The annual SIGGRAPH conference is an astonishing tour-de-force for computer graphics. Here, just for instance, is a short visual summary of SIGGRAPH 2013 highpoints as seen in video. If you are particularly interested in seeing what is most current and willing to do a little follow through there are no lack of good topics that would open up by starting from one of the highlighted works.
• Top-ten lists may seem superficial, but they are good ways of getting started. Here is an intersting top-ten list of people who have played a critical role in the development modern computer graphics. If you choose to write about one of these people, please keep in mind that it will be their contribution rather than their peronal lives that is of greatest interest.
• One of the founders of computer graphics is Ivan Sutherland. His professional accomplishments relate closely to many of the early milestones achieved in the development of computer graphics as a field.
• Both Pixar and Dreamworks have been consistently improving the technology behind the computer generated animated films. Write an essay highlighting the major technical milestones associated with major films, emphasizing how technical advancements dove-tail with changes in directions taken in films.
• Advances in computer graphics have given scientists new ways of experiencing and learning from their data. Write an essay highlighting one or two major new forms of scientific visualization and the new discoveries attributable to this technology.

Students wishing to pick their own topic beyond the general suggestions above are welcome to do so.

All students must get my approval for thier topic. Please email your proposed topic to the cs410 (cs410 at cs.colostate.edu) account with the heading "Proposed Essay Topic" by 11PM Friday, August 30th. I anticipate approving all reasonable alternatives, although I reserve the right to request changes. In particular, I do not wish to read ten essays about the same person or topic, so if I see congestion in requests I will ask for some shifts. Generally, a topic will go to the first one or two people requesting it.

Emphasis should be on clarity and brevity. A modicum of wit would also be welcome. Essays should be between 3 and 5 pages with normal margins and with the text double spaced in an 11 or 12 point font. As these essays relate to a technical field, you should explicitly cite your sources. Your essay must include a bibliography. As to particulars of how to present citations, pick any standard format - I am flexible. I am particular about spelling and grammar. If I catch a mistake then I will take off points. It is probably also worth mentioning that I expect to see a title on the first page of your essay. Finally, there is a subjective component to all communication, so try to inform me while holding my attention. The essays I enjoy the most are going to receive the highest marks.

These essays are due in electronically through RamCT at 11:55PM on Friday September 13th. I would prefer to receive PDF but will accept MS Word format. Please us your own name as the file name in the following manner: 'last_name' underscore 'first_name'. One last comment. I will read, acutally listen to, each and every essay and prepare appropriate feedback. Recognize that for more than 25 essays this process will take time. Normally feedback should be expected within a week of turning in an assignment, however in this case please recognize the process will take longer.