Graphic communication
This course concentrates on using design and communication skills to produce effective 2D and 3D graphic products. Innovation and creativity are encouraged at all times.
To be successful on this course you should be interested in graphic design or illustration, as well as packaging and display products.
You should enjoy art and find it easy to sketch quickly when trying to explain ideas – you should be a good doodler! During the two year course you will develop the presentation techniques that will illustrate and promote your ideas.
The exam board AQA asks for a portfolio of work that represents the best aspects of what you have produced over the two years.
You will be required to produce two complete units of coursework for component one at GCSE.
There will also be the opportunity to produce additional ‘mini projects’ to compliment your learning experience - these could include gallery visits and working with visiting artists.
Component one (coursework): 60% of the overall award.
Component two (externally set assignment): 40%, started after Christmas in Year 11 - you have to respond to one of a series of questions set by the exam board.
Preparation work is coursework in style and a final piece of work is produced in exam conditions over 10 hours of supervised time.
There are four assessment objectives that structure your learning. Each one is marked out of 24 and cover: Investigating, developing, refining and personal response creating final outcomes.
Career opportunities
The skills you develop could be useful in careers such as graphic design, publicity work, marketing, architecture, industrial design, product design, illustration and interior design.
Assessment
There is one tier of entry.
Coursework: One piece started in Year 10, finished by March of Year 11, which is worth 60% of your final mark.
Examinations: An examination at the end of Year 11 worth 40% of your final mark, which lasts two hours.
Click on the video below for more information.
