ART AND DESIGN

Year 9 Course Outline

Art and Design in Year 9 is largely seen as preparation for the GCSE course although it also opens creative thought and understanding, skills that are highly rated at University and in the workplace. During the year, pupils have the opportunity to work on projects that include many of the elements that will be encountered in the GCSE course. The projects cover a range of 2D and 3D media, with all pupils having a common starting point. Instruction is given in the use of new techniques and pupils are encouraged to develop a personal approach to the subject.

Years 10 and 11 Course Outline

Pupils will be following the Edexcel Art and Design Course. During Years 10 and 11, pupils work on a Personal Portfolio (Unit 1) project, exploring a range of disciplines and themes. Pupils are expected to make connections between their own work and that of other artists and designers. The documentation of contextual research and idea development is critical and all pupils are expected to record their work in a visually stimulating manner within sketchbooks and journals. Past examples of GCSE sketchbooks are housed in the Art Department.

Skills Required and Developed

Pupils wishing to pursue Art and Design beyond Years 7 and 8 (the Middle School at PGS) require good basic drawing and observational skills. Pupils wishing to study the subject at GCSE would ideally have shown enthusiasm and commitment during the Year 9 course and developed their technical ability. During Years 10 and 11, pupils are encouraged to experiment with a wide range of materials and conduct focused visual research. They are expected to engage in dialogue with their teacher about their ideas and pursue independent lines of enquiry.

External Assessment

The ESA is a taught examination. During the spring term in Year 11, pupils spend approximately eight weeks preparing for a ten-hour terminal test. This preparatory period takes place under the guidance and tuition of the Art teacher whilst the terminal test takes place over two days under formal examination conditions when pupils will work unaided and under supervision.

Final Assessment

The Personal Portfolio (Unit 1) is worth 60% of the final award. The Externally Set Assignment (Unit 2) is worth 40%. Each pupil has their work internally standardised by the Art Department, with the marks being externally moderated and scrutinised by a representative of the examination board.

Beyond the Classroom

During the course, pupils participate in gallery visits where relevant to a particular project. Our studios are open each lunch time and often into the evening so that pupils can be given support and help when they feel it is required.

Further Information

Mr R Peebles, Head of Art and Design, Tel 023 9236 0036 ext 251, Email j.peebles@pgs.org.uk

Exam Board Website: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/art-and-design-2016.html