Art and Design (Graphic Communication) Specification: AQA Art and Design – Graphics (7203) Head of Department: Mrs A Chambers
Introduction
Component 1: Personal Investigation
The Graphic Communication course at MHSG is centred on the individual student’s potential and imagination. The Department’s policy is to provide assignments broad enough in concept and subject matter to allow for personal interpretations, but at the same time, to be structured enough to ensure a gradual progression towards, eventually, completing the Graphic Communication specification. The resulting work may be digital, photographic, illustrative or a combination of all the above. Any media may be used in the preparatory studies and in the final pieces. The curriculum, together with the supporting specification, promotes the practice of art (2D & 3D) combined with studies of the artefacts of influential artists and designers, historical and contemporary. Drawing from direct observation is an integral part of all assignments. Studying Graphics improves performance in other subjects; design awareness enhances problem solving skills, lateral thinking, complex analysis and critical thinking skills. Coursework teaches self-discipline, focus, organisational, and time management skills. Those with a wide skill set have an advantage in any career. Those who are multi-skilled are vastly more useful, well-rounded, and capable of excelling in a wide range of professions.
• This is a practical investigation supported by written material
Overview of the course Students will: • Be introduced to a variety of experiences that explore a range of fine art media, processes and techniques; both traditional and new media • Explore the use of drawing for different purposes, using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales • Explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and nonEuropean examples.
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• Students are required to conduct a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student’s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation.
Assessments Component 1: Personal Investigation (7202/C): No time limit, 96 marks (60% of AS) Non-exam assessment set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA during a visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment: Response to an externally set assignment (7242/X)
Careers and higher education links This specification lays an appropriate foundation for further study of Art and Design or related subjects in Higher Education. A-level Art and Design prepares students for the Foundation Course in Art and Design, which is followed by a three year BA (Hons) degree course. An art and design background is helpful for a variety of university degree courses such as architecture, engineering and dentistry. It is also useful in such fields as advertising, marketing, publishing and the media. Art and Design can be an exciting and worthwhile subject: it does require imagination and a point of view. In addition, it is suitable for the diverse range of candidates who wish to develop their interest in and enjoyment of Art and Design, fostering its value in lifelong learning.
Preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time, 96 marks (40% of AS). Non-exam assessment set by AQA, marked by the centre and moderated by AQA during a visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment • On the question paper, there will be a choice of eight questions to be used as starting points. Students are required to select one. Students will be provided with examination papers on 1st February, or as soon as possible after that date. The timed sessions will take place at the end of the Spring Term/start of the Summer Term.
Extra-curricular opportunities • Life Drawing Classes • ARTiculation Prize is a nationally acclaimed annual event designed to promote the appreciation and discussion of art. Each student is invited to deliver a ten-minute presentation to an interested audience about a work of art, artefact or architecture of their choice. The final takes place at Clare College, Cambridge • Visits to Art Galleries - local, national and international • LivingEdge Exhibition School Arts Competition is an annual exhibition held at The Lowry, Salford Quays.
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