GCSE Graphic Product

What is Graphics?

Graphics is at the heart of almost everything that you come into contact with throughout the day. From the brands that you wear, to the layout of books and magazines you read, the interface and appearance of the apps you use on your phone. Graphics is even involved in the design and style of the buildings you visit and the media and advertising you access via the internet or television.

GCSE Graphic Product Options.webm

Graphics Product GCSE is an extremely varied subject, designed to develop visual communication skills. It is suited to those who are logical thinkers with creative interests as it requires students to provide solutions to design based problems that incorporate technical knowledge and artistic flair. It is concerned with design and production techniques for graphic and product design using both digital technologies (2D and 3D Computer Aided Design) and traditional manufacturing processes. The course will address a wide range of materials, packaging design, making techniques, paper engineering, marketing and design skills. Students will undertake a range of different design and make tasks and learn the necessary theory as they complete these focused projects. The new GCSE will allow students to explore many different design disciplines and create products that interest them.

The course structure

The course will follow the WJEC ‘Design for the 21st Century’ Product Design specification and the learners produce Graphic Products.

The new course comprises of two components, both completed in year 11

50% Coursework- In the new GCSE you will have the opportunity to write your own design brief and create your own product. Design work will be completed in a sketchbook and you will manufacture a prototype of your final design.
50% Examination- Preparation for the examination starts in year 10. All practical projects will be supported by theory lessons to help develop your understanding of the subject. Students will sit the Product Design examination.

What will you do in Graphic Product?

Year 10

Students will be enthused and challenged by the range of practical project in year 10. The course is designed to encourage and develop their individual design style. All students will have a sketchbook and over the course of the year they will increase their subject knowledge alongside the design and make tasks.

Previous projects include:

Cinema, film and advertising design
Concept design and block modeling
Branding and logos design
Promotion projects
National Packaging Competition in collaboration with Starpack
Architecture Design
Lightning project
Jewellery Project
CAD/CAM laser cut project

Year 11

This year is an exciting opportunity to develop your new skills and produce your own product. The examination board the WJEC will set a contextual challenge, and from this you will be able to develop your own design brief. During year 11 you will focus on developing your concept, from initial design ideas and prototypes through to the final product. Past students have designed board games, packaging, bikes, educational games, furniture, playgrounds, architectural buildings, interior design, video game promotion and branding for music artists.

Possible careers and further education

Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, Product Design, Architecture, Engineering, Game Design, Film Set/Theatre Design, Special effects development, Advertising, Media, Animation, illustration and Web Design.

Visit to Harry Potter Studios to look at all the graphics

Please note: You can only select one Design for the 21st Century course. You must select one course from Fashion and Textiles, Product Design or Graphic Product.