AS/A Level Graphic Design

A Level Graphic Design

Why choose Graphics?
Graphic Design is concerned with producing images and arranging written and visual information for print. Students learn to experiment with image-making and using images with text. Typography, illustration, packaging and printmaking are taught and used in combination. Drawing from first hand sources is an important element of the course, as is the design process, charted through work books. This is an Art and Design course, and students should have GCSE Art and Design A-C grade, or produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates an enthusiasm and understanding of graphical applications. Graphic products is not acceptable without Art GCSE.


Resources and Facilities
We have facilities for drawing, printmaking and photography. Image manipulation is done on our twelve PCs using industry standard software, with scanners and colour printers.


Teaching and Learning Styles
Work is project based and in Year One the acquisition of skills is part of each project. The design process is taught through observation, recording, experimentation, selection and presentation of images. Research projects at AS and A2 give students the opportunity to investigate the history and practice of Graphic Design. The computers are used as tools to assist in producing images, but all design work starts on paper.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Students visit museums and galleries for research purposes, and other visits are concerned with drawing and photographing for practical projects


Assessment
Two units are taken at AS level: a coursework research project and a five-hour test under exam conditions.


Progression Opportunities
Many students continue on to art-related courses, usually Foundation courses which may be followed by a Graphics Degree, HND Graphics or Interactive or Electronic Media. Careers guidance is delivered throughout the course.