Aim
Design & Communications Graphics (DCG) develops students' comprehension ability, and problem solving and creative thinking skills are developed through the analysis and solution of both 2 and 3-dimensional graphics. Graphics and design are communicated using freehand sketching skills, traditional draughting equipment and CAD.
Why Study Design and Communications Graphics?
DCG helps to further students’ cognitive and practical skills with modules like graphic communication, problem solving, spatial visualisation, design capabilities, computer graphics and much more.
Mr. Young - AVS Teacher
What kind of student would DCG suit?
Students who have taken Tech Graphics to Junior Cert level.
Students who have a keen interest in further studies in practical areas of engineering and construction, or in apprenticeships which include the study of technical drawings.
Course Content
The DCG course is comprised of two parts:
Core areas of study
Optional Areas of Study
Part One – Core Areas of Study
Plane and Descriptive Geometry
Project Systems
Plane Geometry
Conic Sections
Descriptive Geometry of Lines and Planes
Intersection and Development of Surfaces
Communication of Design and Computer Graphics
Graphics in Design and Communication
Communication of Design
Freehand Drawing
Information and Communication Technologies
Part 2 – Optional Areas of Study
You will be required to study two of the optional areas listed below:
Applied Graphics
Dynamic Mechanism
Structural Forms
Geological Geometry
Surface Geometry
Assemblies
Assessment
Leaving Certificate DCG is assessed at two levels, Ordinary and Higher level.
Higher
Written Paper - 1 Paper - 60% of Marks
Project - 40% of Marks
Ordinary
Written Paper - 1 Paper - 60% of Marks
Project - 40% of Marks
Section A:
4 short questions on the Core topics, 20 marks per question, marked out of your best 3. Attempt all four.
Section B:
3 long questions on the Core topics. 45 marks per question, marked out of your best two. Read all three, do the two you are most confident on, if you have time at the end of the exam then attempt the third.
Section C:
This section has 5 optional areas on Applied Graphics but you will only be marked on two of these. The areas covered are Structural Forms and Geological Geometry. Do not waste time attempting another question in this section.
The exam is 3 hours long which allows for around 35 minutes for each of the long questions and another 35 minutes for all of the short questions in Section A.
Emphasis on:
Elements of design
Communication graphics
Use of ICT in design
Different theme for Higher and Ordinary level
May take the form of:
-A design investigation and modification
-A concept design
Careers & Third Level Requirements
DCG is a core element of many third level options including: Engineering, Product Design, Construction and Architecture.
Knowledge of this subject will greatly enhance a student's ability in any third level engineering-based programme.
Other relevant career areas include: toolmaker, engineering technician, and carpentry and aircraft technician
DCG is not an essential requirement for any courses in the CAO system.
Subject Links