I combined textual and graphical elements to create a meaningful visual message for this scientific explanation. To represent the sun, I used yellow and orange hues against a blue background to mimic the sky, visually conveying the concept of energy coming from the sun. Using the Oval Tool, I designed a circular sun and applied a radial gradient to add depth and a realistic appearance.
For the trophic level pyramid, I used the Polystar Tool to create a triangle, applying a radial gradient that transitions from saturated colors at the bottom (indicating higher energy) to less saturated colors at the top (representing lower energy). I labeled the pyramid with “Producers” at the base and “Predators” at the apex, omitting intermediate levels to keep the design clean and uncluttered. To illustrate energy flow, I created a red arrow using the Line Tool and Polystar Tool. The arrow, symbolizing energy, points from the producers to the predators, demonstrating the transfer of energy through the food chain.
To show the sun’s movement throughout the day, I converted it into a symbol and used motion tweening with keyframes to animate it rising from the horizon and traveling across the screen. Similarly, I animated the energy arrow by converting it into a symbol and applying motion tweening with keyframes, making it bob up and down to emphasize the dynamic energy flow.
At the 11-second mark, I added a fade-in transition for the text “10% Rule of Energy Transfer,” allowing it to gradually appear on the screen. While I intended for the fade-in to be slower, I faced challenges adjusting the timing to achieve the desired effect. The final animation includes three layers. After exporting the project from Adobe Animate, I imported it into ClipChamp to record the voice-over. As the last step, I uploaded the completed animation with audio to my YouTube channel. @JamiBueker665.