Art & Design - Graphic Communication

Art & Design - Graphic Communication

GCE Advanced Level AS/A2

Course Content
The Graphics course is defined as work which is produced towards a specific design outcome. The advanced level course is extensive and is designed to develop skills in many areas of Graphics but is underpinned by drawing, in a variety of media. Visual imagery will be explored from direct observation and there will be opportunity to develop ideas in an expressive and imaginative way.

The AS course is made up of two coursework units Unit 1 is a portfolio of work made up of a collection of work/projects. Unit 2 is an externally set unit which is carried out over a period weeks and includes a 5 hour period of supervised time during the development stage.
Similarly, there are two units of coursework at A2. Unit 3 is a practical unit which includes a written element of work and Unit 4 is an externally set unit which will be carried out over a number of weeks and will include a 15 hour controlled test at the end.

The areas students work in as part of this course are

• Illustration
• Advertising & packaging
• Animation
• Visual communication
• Computer graphics

Students are encouraged to develop their designs from original drawings which can be applied to many purposes, advertising, packaging, compact disk covers, illustration projects, leaflets, posters, information graphics, book jackets, corporate identities, logotypes, etc. Projects will be undertaken in four steps, research, analysis, development and final artwork.

How it is Taught
Projects are set to the group; main project work is assessed on a continual tutorial basis so that individual students can develop their own personal skills and ideas.

Continual assessment notes are made and agreements made between staff and students to progress projects on a weekly basis.

Formal assessments and feedback take place after each unit is completed.

Examination Details
At AS 5 hours of supervised time during the development stage of the project which will be carried out under exam conditions.

At A2 a 15 hour controlled test at the end of the project carried out under exam conditions.

Useful/Common Subject Combinations
English, Psychology, Media Studies, History, Languages, Business Studies, ICT, Film Studies, Theatre Studies and Dance.

Careers and HE Information
A number of students progress to Foundation Art and Design courses and related Graphic Design courses at degree level. Many of our former students work in related design posts in this country and abroad.