Why should I study Art and Design for GCSE?

 

Art and Design is both a form of communication and a means of expression of ideas and feelings. It is a language that can complement literary, mathematical, scientific and factually based subjects. It is especially concerned with the development processes involved in visual perception and aesthetic experiences. Art and Design encourages creativity through self-expression, use of the imagination, conceptual thinking, powers of observation, analytical abilities and practical skills. The subject can give great personal joy.

 

Who should study Art and Design at GCSE?

 

The subject is intended to meet the needs of the following types of candidate:

 

· Those who will undertake further studies in Art and Design.

 

· Those whose studies or future careers may need a background in Art and Design.

 

· Those who have an interest in, enjoyment and aptitude for the subject and who wish to gain a further AS/A Level.

 

The subject is a requirement for careers that include those connected with fine art, photography, film and video, printing, fashion design, textile design, graphic design, ceramics, interior design, 3-D studies, product design and any career that requires visual literacy. It is also strongly recommended for those intending to study architecture, as a portfolio will often be required when applying to university.

 

Degrees can be obtained via art colleges, and universities. Such courses require a high degree of artistic skill, the ability to work under pressure, and commitment. Candidates would require such abilities to succeed in the wider world, for careers in art are often commercially based and therefore competitive.

 

Those who select this course should have an aptitude for and an interest in Art and Design. Success in the subject is underpinned by the ability to draw well from observation and to be able to maintain sustained study both at school and at home. The subject makes demands on a pupil’s self discipline and pupils are expected to carry out a great deal of personal research in order to develop their coursework to the required standard. The programme of observational studies during year nine can often be used as an accurate measure of the pupil’s aptitude and if a pupil is unsure of their drawing ability they should seek advice from the subject teacher before they decide to opt for the subject.

What will I do during my Art and Design GCSE course?

 

The course aims to encourage visual and aesthetic awareness through practical skills. Pupils will be required to:

• show a personal response to a given theme;
• record from direct observation;
• work independently;
• analyse, select, research and communicate relevant information;
• develop intuitive and imaginative abilities;
• show that they are aware of cultural, historical and environmental influences;
• acquire and use the appropriate technical skills in order to communicate well;
• be able to identify and solve problems through a design process;

 How will GCSE Art and Design be taught and examined?

Coursework will be broadly based, accommodating a wide range of materials and processes. After two years study pupils will have produced a portfolio of work showing evidence of attainment. Supporting studies and a comprehensive sketchbook showing the development of ideas and research must accompany the work. Coursework accounts for sixty percent of the marks. An exam with six weeks of preparation is taken at the end of the two years and is worth forty percent of the total mark. All the work is internally assessed and externally moderated through an exhibition of the candidates work.

· One portfolio of exemplary work

· One controlled test at the end of the course