Teaching 3ds max

[Capt.ArD]

I started by teaching the basic functions: create shapes/splines/geometry, scale, translate, rotate. I taught them latheing with splines. Then, i went into vertex manipulation (this is how you turn the object into editable poly, this is how you move the verteces, etc.). then i exlpained how meshsmooth works, as well as bend, shell, etc. o yeah, and soft selection, very useful.

This took about 3 hours, or 2 1.5-hour meetings. I then spent one meeting doing a demo, where the underclassmen gave me an object and i would make a simple model really fast. this helped them see application of the things i taught them.

finally, 2-3 meetings before we begin animating, i gave an assignment of a simple item to make (pencil, cup, etc.) This helped them get a feel for the software, and to exchange tips and for me to offer individual help on things. I also taught texturing to them in groups of 2 0r 3 at this point.

it can really be done many ways. i would just say try to do it how teachers teach in class, show an idea, use simple language, and give them time to play with it and try it out.