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Graphic Communication
The Graphic Design Edexcel course is based on the personal investigation of Graphic Design language. Typography, design composition and visual relationship between text, image and space from the foundations of this course.
Students are required to create a dynamic personal portfolio of visual and creative experimentation and inquiry through the use of traditional and digital media, materials, techniques and processes.
COURSE CONTENT
You will learn about graphic designers and design movements and use these to develop personal aesthetic and intellectual concepts. Editorial design, logo development, experimental typography and infographics will be creatively investigated.
Component 1: (Portfolio)
This component is weighted 60% of the total qualification. This component incorporates three major elements: Supporting studies, practical work and a personal study. Students will receive various starting points for exploration of their own personal investigation. This will take the form of creative investigations through sketchbooks and refined experimenting with media to create a portfolio of work leading to a range of outcomes. Component 1 runs through Year 12 and Year 13.
Component 2: (Externally Set Assignment – ESA)
This component is weighted 40% of the total qualification. This component incorporates two major elements: Preparatory studies and the 15–hour period of sustained focus. This externally set assignment represents the opportunity for students to draw together all the knowledge, understanding and skills developed throughout Year 12 and Year 13. The externally set assignment consists of one broad-based thematic starting point to which students respond by developing a portfolio of practical work and final outcomes.
Component 1 and Component 2 are internally assessed and moderated. C1 and C2 are then externally moderated/standardised by Edexcel.
ASSESSMENTS
The assessment descriptors (AO1/AO2/AO3/AO4) are used to assess both Component 1 and 2. Students will receive continuous assessment feedback and support throughout the course. Students are intrinsically involved in critical analysis of their own work and the work of their peers.
Year 12 and Year 13 Assessment Objective Descriptors:
AO1: Develop ideas through sustained and focused investigations informed by contextual and other sources, demonstrating analytical and critical understanding. AO2: Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processes, reviewing and refining ideas as work develops. AO3: Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions, reflecting critically on work and progress. A04 Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and, where appropriate, makes connections between visual and other elements.
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
SKILLS DEVELOPED
● Observational, drawing and mark making skills - Design rules/hierarchy and typography ● Creativity - risk taking ● Development of art based traditional and contemporary processes, materials and techniques ● Strong visual awareness and visual communication skills ● Wider appreciation of contextual and cultural themes, Graphic Design and Art History ● Interpretative, emotional, social and moral consideration ● Development, exploration and inclusion of refined Visual and Written Literacy ● Connective and non-connective ideas and concept development ● Visual, digital and verbal communication, presentation and critique skills
SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST
Whilst the Art Department has excellent facilities, equipment, materials and provision, it is highly recommended that all Fine Art Students have general art based equipment. ● Drawing pencils - HB/2B/3B/4B/9B. ● Eraser, sharpener, ruler - (For home use scissors) we do not recommend carrying sharp items around school. ● Basic paint sets - watercolour and acrylic - maybe oils - but are expensive so best to wait. ● Black Fine liners - different sizes. ● Paint brushes - watercolour and Acrylic. ● Digital media is or can be used widely on the course - Access to Adobe Creative Suite is recommended - please talk to your teacher before purchasing
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
All students will have the opportunity to work with outside artists and have numerous opportunities to display artwork in internal and external exhibitions and participate in collaborative projects with external agencies. Current creative partnerships include the British Council, British Embassy, The Future Centre, Special Olympics Committee, Etihad Modern Art Gallery, Warehouse 421 (New Beginnings – Abu Dhabi schools exhibition) and The Club Gallery (BSAK Young Artists and Designers)
