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Art

What is GCSE Art and Design?

GCSE Art and Design develops students’ creativity, observational skills, and visual literacy. The course encourages learners to explore a range of artistic techniques, materials, and processes, fostering both practical skills and independent thinking. Students engage with both traditional and contemporary art forms, building confidence in expressing ideas visually.

This course enables students to:

  • Experiment with drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, digital media, and mixed media.

  • Analyse and respond to the work of artists, designers, and craftspeople from a variety of cultures and periods.

  • Develop a personal portfolio demonstrating creativity, skill, and conceptual thinking.

  • Plan, execute, and refine their own projects in a structured and reflective way.

Qualification Structure and Weightings

Unit Title Assessment Type Weighting
Unit 1 Portfolio of Work Non-examined assessment (coursework) 60%
Unit 2 Externally Set Assignment Practical project with 10-hour controlled assessment 40%

Unit 1: Portfolio of Work (60%)

Assessment Type: Non-examined assessment completed over the course.

Topics and Skills:

  • Research and explore ideas, artists, and themes.

  • Develop technical skills across a range of media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital media).

  • Experiment with materials, techniques, and processes.

  • Plan, review, and refine personal projects.

  • Analyse and reflect on the effectiveness of your work.

Example Projects:

  • A mixed-media exploration of identity and culture.

  • A series of observational drawings developing into a 3D sculpture.

  • A digital portfolio of photography and image manipulation.

Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)

Assessment Type: Practical project set by WJEC; includes 10-hour controlled assessment.

Topics and Skills:

  • Respond to a theme or stimulus provided by the exam board.

  • Demonstrate independent decision-making and creativity under timed conditions.

  • Apply skills developed in the portfolio to produce a final outcome.

  • Evaluate and reflect on choices and techniques used.

Example Project:

  • Create a final piece exploring “environmental change,” informed by preparatory studies and experimentation.

Assessment Summary

  • Unit 1 (Portfolio): 60%

  • Unit 2 (Externally Set Assignment): 40%

  • Marked against assessment objectives:

    1. Develop ideas through investigation and research.

    2. Refine skills and techniques to realise intentions.

    3. Record ideas, observations, and insights.

    4. Present a personal, informed, and meaningful response.

How This Course Helps Students

GCSE Art and Design:

  • Builds creativity, observational skills, and technical ability.

  • Encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent project management.

  • Prepares students for further study in art, design, and related creative careers.

  • Enhances confidence in visual communication and cultural literacy.

 

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