Graphic Communication
Exam board: AQA
Course code: 7201
https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/art-and-design/a-level/art-and-design-7201/specification
Entry requirement: Grade 6 either Art and Design or Graphic Design
Graphic communication studies the various methods of visual communication. The subject explores the many diverse areas within design including illustration, typography, packaging and corporate identities. You will explore different ways of producing work incorporating drawing, printing methods and the use of Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. Throughout the year you will study how other designers and artists have produced work, enabling you to appreciate the design process. Students will be required to participate actively in the course of study, recognising and developing their own strengths in graphics and identifying and sustaining their own lines of enquiry.
Subject Content and Course Assessment
Component 1: Portfolio
What is assessed?
Students are required to conduct a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. 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. The investigation must show clear development from initial intentions to the final outcome or outcomes. It must include evidence of the student’s ability to research and develop ideas and relate their work in meaningful ways to relevant critical/contextual materials.
How it is assessed
- No time limit
- 96 marks
- 60% of A Level
Component 2: Externally set assignment
What is assessed?
Students respond to their chosen starting point from an externally set assignment paper, evidencing coverage of all four assessment objectives. Each question paper will consist of 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 1 February, or as soon as possible after that date.
How it is assessed
- Preparatory plus 15 hours of supervised time
- 96 marks
- 40% of A Level
Non-exam assessment (NEA) set by AQA; marked by the school/college and moderated by AQA during a visit; moderation will normally take place in June.
Higher Education and Careers
Students who choose this course will be able to express themselves effectively, both visually and articulately. They will have developed critical thinking skills, worked as a team and independently, taken on challenges which allow them to become better problem solvers and independent enquirers. They will have good time management and organisational skills which will allow them to be suitably prepared for further study at university, but also apprenticeships and work-based learning.
Possible career paths for designers include: graphic design; communication design and strategy, creative direction, illustration, animation and film studies.
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