MoreArt
About the course:
Component 1: Portfolio (Coursework)
60% of the total A Level marks
Component 2: The Controlled Test (Externally set assignment)
40% of the total A Level marks.
Our A Level Art course, following the EDUQAS examination board specification, offers students an exciting and comprehensive journey into the world of visual arts. It encourages creativity, critical thinking, and technical skill development, providing a solid foundation for future artistic pursuits or higher education.
At the beginning of the course, students participate in a series of mini workshops designed to explore various artistic media and techniques. These workshops introduce a wide range of skills, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, and digital media. This exploratory phase allows students to experiment, refine their technical abilities, and discover their personal artistic preferences.
Following this foundation, students embark on their main project, where they choose a subject area or theme that interests them. This project forms the core of the course, giving students the freedom to develop their ideas independently, conduct research, and create a body of work that reflects their personal creative journey. Throughout the project, students receive individual guidance and feedback from experienced teachers, helping them refine their work and meet the high standards expected at A Level.
Students are expected to produce a body of work that may include drawings, paintings, 3D pieces using materials like clay, paper, or card, as well as photographs, digital media, annotations, and contextual studies. This work should demonstrate the development and progression of their ideas, along with the ability to work independently and thoughtfully, continuously reviewing and refining their practical work throughout the process. In the second year, students will also be required to complete a written study of around 1,000 words, based on research related to an area of study connected to their practical portfolio.
The course culminates in both coursework and an externally set assignment, allowing students to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a final portfolio and timed exam piece. A Level Art is perfect for students who are passionate about exploring their creativity and developing their artistic voice.
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What is expected of you:
Students should be prepared to work hard: in study periods, lessons and outside of school for example taking photographs, gathering materials, completing class studies– in essence, students need a passion for the subject in order to make good progress! Adherence to deadlines is essential for prompt feedback.
Students should be prepared to listen and to act upon the advice from all teachers in addition to contributing to critique sessions actively.
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How will you be assessed:
A Level Art work is assessed through two main components: coursework and an externally set assignment.
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Coursework (Personal Investigation): This makes up 60% of the final grade. It includes a portfolio of practical work that demonstrates the student’s ability to develop and refine ideas through a variety of media. The portfolio is supported by a written study of approximately 1,000 words, which is based on research related to the practical work. The coursework is internally assessed by teachers and externally moderated.
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Externally Set Assignment: This accounts for 40% of the final grade. In the second year, students receive an exam paper with a selection of starting points or themes. After a preparatory period to develop ideas and create initial work, students complete a final piece during a timed 15-hour exam. This component is also internally assessed and externally moderated.
Assessment focuses on students' creativity, technical skills, experimentation, and ability to communicate ideas effectively through their artwork.
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What it prepares you for:
A Level Art prepares students for a variety of future pathways in both higher education and creative careers. Some key areas it supports include:
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Higher Education: The course provides an excellent foundation for pursuing art-related degrees at university, such as Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Fashion Design, Architecture, Animation, or Art History. It can also be beneficial for broader creative fields like Media Studies and Interior Design.
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Creative Careers: A Level Art equips students with the skills and portfolio needed for careers in fields such as fine art, illustration, graphic design, fashion, advertising, product design, set and costume design, curation, and art education. It is also valuable for freelance work or roles within creative industries like film, publishing, and media.
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Technical Skills: Students develop proficiency in a variety of artistic techniques and media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, digital art, photography, and printmaking. This technical versatility is useful in many creative professions.
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Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving: The course encourages innovation, imagination, and critical thinking, helping students to develop their ability to generate and refine ideas. These skills are highly transferable and valued in a wide range of professions, not just in the arts.
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Portfolio Development: Throughout the course, students build a strong portfolio of work, which is essential for applying to art and design courses at university or art school and can serve as a showcase of their skills for potential employers.
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Entry requirements:
A strong KS4 portfolio and at least a 5 at GCSE/Level 2 qualification, including at least a 4 in GCSE Art. Students may find this course challenging if they achieve less than a 5 at GCSE / Level 2.
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For more information:
If you are an internal applicant, please talk to your art teacher about the possibility of studying Art in the sixth form. Or you may choose to talk to Miss C Waddilove (Subject Lead: Art).
If you are an external applicant and would like more details about this course, please email sixthform@mosslands.wirral.sch.uk