ART & DESIGN A LEVEL

 

ART & DESIGN

COURSE REQUIREMENTS: GCSE Art Grade 4 or above.


WHAT IS THE COURSE CONTENT AND HOW WILL I BE EXAMINED?


YEAR 1 – AN INTRODUCTORY COURSE

Students are introduced to research skills and how to independently develop ideas to form the foundation of later work. Work will be developed in response to a theme, issue, interest or concern.

 

YEAR 2 – COMPONENT 1 – PERSONAL INVESTIGATION.
This is a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material of between 1000 and 3000 words. The focus of the investigation is identified independently by the student and will lead to a finished outcome. The investigation must be informed by an aspect of contemporary or past practice of artists, designers or craftspeople – 60%

 

YEAR 2 – COMPONENT 2 – EXTERNALLY SET ASSIGNMENT
Students will select a starting point from a choice of eight questions set by the exam board. They will then complete a preparation period of work which may include mounted sheets, design sheets, sketchbooks, journals, models and maquettes. Following the preparatory period, students will complete
15 hours of unaided, supervised time, in which they will produce a finished outcome. Students complete the unit of work plus a 15 hour exam – 40%

A-Level

Exam Board:

AQA

Contact details:

Head of department Mrs V McEvoy

v.mcevoy@st-nicholas.cheshire.sch.uk

“I’M SO GLAD I CHOSE ART FOR A-LEVEL. I TOOK IT FOR GCSE AND INITIALLY
I WAS SCARED I WOULDN’T FEEL THE SAME ABOUT IT!! IT’S SO MUCH FUN
AND EVERY LESSON WE EXPLORE A NEW TYPE OF ART WORKSHOP. IT IS
REALLY STRENGTHENING MY CREATIVE SKILLS AND KEEPING ME REALLY
INTERESTED IN THE SUBJECT.”
GABRIEL GRAINGE – YEAR 13 STUDENT

ST NICHOLAS EXTRA:

One to one support provided every lesson in a nurturing learning environment. Our Sixth form are invited to work during their free periods in their own designated studio space within school. Our students’ work is prominently displayed around the Art department showcasing their skills. Art students have the opportunity to get involved in running clubs, mentoring younger students and assisting with our open evenings; therefore developing their communication and leadership skills.