In class, there is a need for a common language to help us point out what parts of a design are successful, or what parts of a design needs improvement. Furthermore, when making design choices, it can be very helpful to have a common language to describe the kinds of goals we would like to achieve with our designs. The elements of design and principles of art are a collection of concepts that have proven very useful over the years for artists to help communicate about a work's formal qualities. I expect all students to regularly use the vocabulary and concepts discussed on this page.
Of course, artists do not always have to think in these terms! So, in your everyday practice, don't be constrained to thinking just in terms of what has been discussed here!