Qualification: GCSE (9-1)

QAN Code: 601/8088/2

Level: 1 & 2

Exam Board: AQA

What you learn about:

This is a broad based Art and Design course that prepares students well for access to Post-16 study. Students will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of two and/or three-dimensional media, techniques and processes including both traditional and new technologies. This may include Fine Art (Drawing, Painting, Mixed media, Ceramics) and Graphic Communication with some use of computer software graphics packages.

Students will be expected to develop their practical work by exploring relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to an area of art, craft and design. This will require independent research and investigation into a particular theme; this may be from a period or aspect of Art or Design from the past or from recent times and could be from anywhere in the world. Their practical response to this research must show an understanding of different styles, genres and traditions investigated. Career paths may include: Architecture, Product design, Graphic design, Interior design, Construction, Photography, Illustration, Animation, Fashion, Metal/stone design & craft and Printing.

Assessment:

Component 1: Portfolio of Work

Coursework consists of one extended or two projects that are set internally by the subject teacher. There will be coursework deadlines at the end of year 10 and mid-January of the second year of the course. It is this/these project/s that make up the student’s   portfolio of work. The Coursework Portfolio makes up 60% of the final assessment and is marked out of 96.

Component 2: Externally Set  Project

A Question paper, written by the Examination Board and issued from 1 February in the second year of the course, provides the starting point for a final project.

After an  allocated period of preparation time,

students must produce a final piece of work during a supervised controlled test period of 10 hours. The work produced during this time must be unaided.

The final Externally Set Project makes up 40% of the final assessment and is marked out of 96.

Other Information:

To meet the standards of a GCSE course in Art and Design, students will be required to complete work outside of lesson times- the department runs both lunchtime and evening sessions on set days.

This may take the form of independent research and investigation into a particular theme or may require the completion of practical work.

It is important that students enjoy and feel confident in their ability with the practical aspects of this subject.

A basic range of art materials and access to the internet at home would be useful but is not compulsory- sketchbooks and other materials can be purchased at a discounted rate from the department.