Graphic Communication (GCSE

WHY SHOULD I OPT FOR GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION?

Graphic Communication may be defined as the process by which information and ideas are communicated through the use of images, symbols, colours, shapes, patterns and typography. This GCSE course will enable participants to develop conceptual and technical skills using a variety of media and processes, both digital and hand crafted. Boundaries between related graphic processes are becoming increasingly blurred but aspects, such as advertising, packaging design, print based promotional design and illustration, typography or branding provide an indication of the types of projects and design briefs that may be completed. Posters, brochures, flyers, T-shirts, CD/DVD sleeves, book covers, magazine spreads, calendars, stamps, packaging, publicity materials, vehicle livery, billboards, advertising, logos, branding, corporate identity, and three dimensional point-of-sale and exhibition design represent some of the range of product outcomes that may be produced. A productive and purposeful engagement with the work of other designers, illustrators and artists, alongside broader contextual references and sources of inspiration, is key to developing a student’s own work. A willingness to approach the course with an open and enquiring mind is crucial. We particularly value the creation of a positive and mutually supportive group dynamic in lessons. Although flexible in delivery, 2 of 3 lessons will be timetabled in the specialist Mac Suite.

BRIEF OVERVIEW:

This title is defined as the process of creating primarily visual material to convey information, ideas and emotions through the use of graphic elements such as colour, line, shape, pattern, image, typography and photography. Projects and design briefs are largely in the context of design for print.

Areas of study include:

• Advertising • Package Design • Communication Graphics • Typography • Illustration • Digital Image Manipulation. • Desk-Top Publishing. Work is not limited to one area of study.

COMPONENT 1: PORTFOLIO 60% OF QUALIFICATION:

This component comprises a major practical portfolio and outcome/s to be based on internally set themes and subject matter developed from personal and/ or given starting points. This component will be internally set, internally assessed and externally moderated. Work will be selected, evaluated and presented for assessment by the student. Evidence is required of how the student has met each of the assessment objectives.

COMPONENT 2: EXTERNALLY SET ASSIGNMENT 40% OF QUALIFICATION:

The Externally Set Assignment consists of two parts: Part 1: Preparatory study period This component will consist of a selected assignment based on themes, visual stimuli and written briefs, set by Eduqas and presented to students at the start of the preparatory study period. The starting point (or question) selected by the student will inform a personal, creative response. Responses are developed during the preparatory study period.

Part 2: 10 hour period of sustained focus work. The resolution of the student’s ideas from the preparatory work must be completed during the designated 10 hours of sustained focus work.

ASSESSMENT:

Work will be selected, evaluated and presented for assessment by the student.

Component 1: Portfolio 60%

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment 40% The Externally Set Assignment will be set by Eduqas, assessed by the teacher and externally moderated. Both the preparatory work and sustained focus work will be assessed together using the assessment objectives: AO1 Critical understanding AO2 Creative making AO3 Reflective recording AO4 Personal presentation.

HOW WILL THIS GCSE HELP ME IN THE FUTURE?

This GCSE will provide an excellent platform for further study of Graphic Communication at A Level, or other similar creative design orientated A Level courses. Progression beyond A Level can involve a one year Art & Design Foundation Diploma, which in turn leads to Higher Education degree level study and a career within the creative industries sector.