Art & Design

Details of the Examination Specification

Art & Design (Fine Art) AQA (7202) 

What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? 

Students will have a good level of ability within the subject and a strong GCSE in Art & Design. A key part of the course is the ability to record observations in a variety of media. To assist with the development of observational drawing skills, the UCM runs a series of Life-drawing classes specifically aimed at A Level Art students. The impact these sessions have on the standard of students’ drawing ability and final A Level grade is significant, therefore these sessions will be compulsory for any student who wishes to take A Level Art & Design at Queen Elizabeth II High School. 

What will I learn on this A Level course? 

Students will follow the unendorsed course, which will build on knowledge, skills and understanding developed at GCSE.  

• In year one students will be introduced to a variety of experiences employing a range of media, processes and techniques appropriate to the chosen area of study  

• In year two students are required to build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained in year one with greater depth of study 

What kind of student is this course suitable for? 

A Level Art & Design is a demanding yet exciting and rewarding course. Successful students need to be highly motivated and capable of working independently, to tight deadlines. 

What examinations will I have to take to get my qualification?

Unit 1: 

• Drawing and Exploration Portfolio  

• Portfolio of materials which exemplify work explored and experiments undertaken  

• Best practice examples to be submitted for marking as part of the Coursework module in year 2  

• Marked as a whole  Internally marked

Unit 2: 

• Development and skills based portfolio  

• Best practice examples to be submitted for marking as part of the Coursework module in year 2  

• Marked as a whole  Internally marked

Unit 3: 

• Personal Investigation - Coursework  60% of overall mark  

• Personal investigation based on ideas, issue, concept or theme  

• Supported by 1000-3000 words  

• Marked as a whole  Internally marked and moderated by AQA

Unit 4: 

• Externally-Set Assignment  40% of overall mark  

• Assignment issued to students on 1st February  

• Supervised time fifteen hours  

• Marked as a whole  

• Internally marked and moderated by AQA

Why choose Art & Design? 

The course lays an appropriate foundation for further study of Art & Design or related subjects in Higher Education. In addition it is suitable for the diverse range of students who wish to develop their interest in and enjoyment of Art & Design, fostering its value for lifelong learning

What can I do after I have completed the course? 

The world we now live in is dominated by visual images: TV, newspapers, magazines, internet and video games are all around us. New technologies are constantly evolving and the demand in all areas of industry for individuals with a high level of creativity is vast and growing rapidly. Many students who finish the A Level in Art & Design choose to take the subject further. Many attend the UCM to complete the Art & Design Foundation Course before going on to University to study a wide range of Art related courses. Others go straight to University to study subjects such as Architecture, Media or Product Design. Those students who decide not to take the subject any further are still able to apply the skills and knowledge they have developed throughout the course to a wide range of careers. 

Art fosters many skills beyond the purely visual. Students who study it are more likely to be dynamic in their approach to problem solving and finding solutions to a whole range of issues. They are used to organising their time, working independently and taking the initiative. They learn to spot and exploit the potential in many situations. All of which are highly prized attributes by Universities and employers. 

Other Information 

Resources for a course of this nature are extensive and whilst the Art Department expects to meet the majority of students’ material needs, there is a £15 charge at the beginning of Year 12 and again at Year 13 to contribute to the wide range of materials that students will use. There may still be occasions when students need to supply materials the department does not stock. 

Next Steps! 

If you have any questions regarding the course, please feel free to speak to any of the Art Department staff. They will be able to offer help and guidance on any issues or concerns you may have. 

Further information regarding the course can be found in the Art Department A Level handbook. Please ask for a copy.