Graphic Communication

Course content

Students should produce practical and critical/contextual work in one or more areas of study, for example, interactive media (including web, app and game design), advertising, packaging design, design for print, illustration, communication graphics, branding, multimedia, motion graphics, design for film and television.

What have students who have taken this course in the past progressed to?

A Level students have the opportunity to study at university or pursue an apprenticeships in design related areas or branding and marketing. With a good portfolio and grade students qualify to study a Design related degree which could lead towards a career in graphic design, footwear design, fashion design, interior design, architecture design, games design, multi-media design, art direction or advertising.

How will I learn?

You will experience a variety of teaching methods and styles, but the course is mainly classroom and workshop based. There are opportunities to attend Art galleries, design exhibition, museums and outside learning involving photography.

How will I be assessed?

We work to the AQA exam board and there is one externally set task at the end of a two year course, as well as your major project. The external AQA task amounts to 40% of your final grade 15 hours of controlled time will be allocated for this. The major project which amounts to 60% of your final grade. The major component of the course is a design portfolio which amounts to 60% of your final grade. You will also produce a personal related study report of 1000 to 3000 words that supports your design portfolio.

How much time should I be expected to spend on assignments, projects, field trips etc.?

There is no set limit however you will be expected to spend a minimum of 5 hours per week outside lesson time to complete set work. Pupils will also be expected to take photographs of a range of subject matter and produce a resource folder that will act as visual inspirational for design projects.

Which awarding body is the course validation by?

AQA.

Expected prior knowledge

To succeed in this subject, you should have an avid interest in English, Art & Design and Graphic Design and you should also have an interest in photography.