This unit requires the individual to prepare images and equipment and to combine elements, separate colours and prepare registration and complex artwork for the next production stage.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Plan the combining strategy and prepare the work

1.1. Job components are gathered and checked according to job specifications

1.2. Dot shapes and percentages are checked according to job specifications

1.3. The correct masking technique is used to combine the job economically

1.4. Screen rulings and angles are checked according to job specifications

1.5. Spotting techniques are performed accurately to achieve the required combining effect

1.6. Exposures and processing equipment are set up to manufacturer's specifications

1.7. Stipples and vignettes are laid at the correct angles and using the correct percentages

2. Combine film

2.1. Spreads, chokes, reverses, deep etchings and line and tone combinations are created according to job specifications

2.2. Colours are separated correctly according to job specifications

3. Ensure accurate registration

3.1. Register marks, register punch holes, centre lines and trim lines are calculated and aligned accurately according to job specifications

3.2. All elements are registered accurately according to design specifications

4. Apply photographic contacting

4.1. The basic exposures for contact, duplication and spreads and chokes are determined

4.2. The contact frames for contact, duplication and spreads and chokes are used correctly

Required skills

OHS in relation to operating machinery such as safely switching off machinery before cleaning is started

communication of ideas and information by interpreting implicit and explicit requirements of the brief or layout

collecting, analysing and organising information by matching production requirements and constraints with requirements of the brief

planning and organising activities by determining sequence of processes and organising necessary materials

teamwork when maintaining the production process in association with others

mathematical ideas and techniques by calculating enlargement/reduction factors, register and position

problem-solving skills by resolving issues of register, fit and overlap

use of technology by using equipment correctly to ensure ease of subsequent processing

Required knowledge

choice of printing process and the affect oncombining strategy and settings

steps required to produce the combined image

image elements unique to this job specification

criteria that you should apply to colour separated images to ensure they meet job specification/printing process

masking technique to ensure accuracy and economy

equipment considerations that are essential to ensure accuracy

method of producing spreads and chokes (trapping)

basic exposure data for contacting and duplicating emulsions

aids that can be used to ensure quality control

factors that ensure quality of output through a processor

procedures that could be used to ensure accuracy of registration

factors that should be observed to ensure screen elements are assembled correctly

correct percentage tints

meeting all job specifications

care that must be taken when matching to PMS colours

manuals, safety and other documentation that are relevant to this task and where are they kept and information that is included in these documents

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

spreads, chokes, reverses, deep etchings and line and tone combinations meet the job specifications. Colours are separated correctly and all elements registered accurately. Contact, duplication and spreads and chokes have correct exposure

the underlying skill of combining should be transferable across safelight and roomlight environments. It is important that the substrate for reproduction is identified and that the competencies be demonstrated with a clear identification of printing processes

demonstrate an ability to find and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources

prepare and assemble at least TWO layouts with a variety of selected image elements following the job brief and the listed Performance Criteria.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure:

assessment may take place on the job, off the job or a combination of these. Off the job assessment must be undertaken in a closely simulated workplace environment

it is expected that special purpose tools and equipment will be used where appropriate.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Input may include:

a variety of screened colour separations and tints and detailed job specifications.

Capture may include:

variety of image registration and contact exposure equipment suitable for darkroom or roomlight handling.

Manipulation/edit may include:

hand and photographic techniques.

Output may include:

assembled to final film and colour proofing.

Quality standards may Include:

should meet client requirements and enterprise and industry standards network configuration.

Unit sector

Pre-press

This unit contains employability skills.