Head of Department: Ms K Burden聽 / Head of Subject: Ms K Allen
Graphic Design is the art of working with text and images to communicate ideas using a wide variety of techniques, for example, design for print, typography or branding. Pupils work towards a particular brief, which could be for areas such as advertising, packaging, books or posters.
Detailed curriculum information can be viewed on the downloadable document on this page.
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GCSE Graphic Design
What is Graphic Design?
Graphic Design is the art of working with text and images to communicate ideas using a wide variety of techniques; design for print, typography or branding for example. These are chosen to meet a specific brief, which could be for advertising, packaging, books or posters, to name but a few.
What skills will I develop?
This graphics course gives pupils the opportunity to learn a wide variety of graphic techniques and processes, and to develop design solutions to a professional standard. Pupils will complete the course with a broad knowledge and understanding of graphics and the practical skills to apply their ideas.
What syllabus will I follow?
AQA GCSE Graphic Communication (Code 8203)
What will the course look like?
The first year serves as a foundation, building up skills so that students can complete a major coursework project and examination in year 11.
Year 10 Foundation:
- Investigate designers, graphic elements and graphic products
- Learn how to use a range of graphic tools, techniques and processes. This includes both traditional 2D and 3D media and computer aided design such as Photoshop and Illustrator.
Year 11:
- Coursework: Design, develop and present original graphics based on a self-defined brief
- Examination: Produce preparatory work and a final design for one of seven starting points set by the exam board. (The final design is completed in 10 hours of supervised time).
What homework will I get?
Most homework will be finishing off work started in class time. Students are required to allow 1-2 hours for homework every week. This may include research, development of design ideas or documentation.
How will I be assessed?
The work is marked and standardised within the department and then externally moderated by an examiner. The final grade is 60% coursework and 40% examination. Pupils will get regular feedback and targets to improve their work as we go through the course.
What jobs or further courses of study might this lead to?
This course is excellent for anyone who is interested in working in the design industry, particularly graphics and illustration. It is also an ideal preparation for anyone interested in taking Graphic Design at A Level, especially at CVC.
Are there any entry requirements for this course?
An interest in the designed world is essential, as pupils will need to gain an understanding of the influence of graphic design, both in a practical sense and in terms of aesthetics. As the course progresses and pupils gain confidence, they will have the opportunity to explore their ideas more freely, which will require more independence.
If I need additional support, what can I access?
The Design and Technology department offer additional after-school support sessions to ensure that pupils can access the software needed to complete work, but this is also available in the library.