Art and Design

What will I study at Key stage 4?

The first year will be spent fine-tuning your technical skills across a number of key areas including drawing, painting and 3D construction. You will be guided through how to analyse the work of artists confidently, and use this effectively to influence your own work. Your sketchbook will be key to this exciting collection of drawings, images, notes, experiments and evaluations. You are given a lot of freedom in choosing artists and this provides an excellent opportunity to exercise independence and learn how to work in styles that really interest you.

The second year involves further skill development and the chance to explore a wider range of media such as printmaking, graphite, pastel and digital photography. You will be given more choice regarding what your work is based on as the year progresses and you are encouraged to extend any existing skills you possess – this has included stained glass, textiles and jewellery making in previous years. A mock exam is embedded in the autumn coursework that allows you to approach the final exam with confidence. After Christmas there is time to either consolidate coursework or pursue a mini-project of your own devising, depending on the amount of independence you have shown us over the course.

Coursework 60% 2 Years

Terminal exam 40% 10 hours

Unit 5 Data, Information and Information Systems Unit 6 Using Presentation Software
Unit 7 Using the Internet
Unit 8 Using Graphics Software
Unit 9 Using Digital Imaging Software and Hardware
Unit 10 Using Electronic Communications
Unit 11 Information and Communications Technology and its Effects on Society

Candidates must submit evidence for two further units. This can be based on either or both of the remaining Core Units and/or on any of the Optional Units 5 - 11

What assessments will I do?

Coursework covers four main assessment areas each worth 25%. These are:

• Drawing
• Analysing the work of artists
• Developing your own ideas based on your drawings and analysis
• Producing a final piece of work based on your plans
• Your sketchbook will count towards final exam; quality of work and presentation is important.

Why should I do Art and Design?

• Because I am an inspired, diverse, independent individual with my own ideas and thoughts
• Because I am excited about the opportunity to express what I feel through art about myself and the world around me
• Because I am able to make good use of advice from my teachers and peers
• Because I enjoy art and wish to extend my creative skills
• Because I want to study art in the future and possibly make a career in this area

What courses or employment can I progress to at the end of my course?

Art at GCSE teaches you a wealth of transferable skills such as problem solving, analysing, summarising, experimenting and learning about how others view themselves and their world. It allows you to express your feelings, communicate ideas and investigate issues. We encourage students to work independently and value personal responses.