GCSE art

ART and DESIGN

AQA (FINE ART 8202)

In order to study this subject at A-Level you must take it for GCSE. 

Art and Design is a practical subject which has a strong coursework component allowing you to develop your ability to record, refine and present ideas based on a theme.

There is no written exam component to this subject instead students work to build a portfolio of their work focusing on using a range of different art media and materials. 

Through this course you will explore different specialisms of Art, gaining skills in the following areas: 

• Fine Art (drawing, painting and mixed media),

• Graphic Communication (Digital drawing and Editing) 

• Photography

• Printmaking

• Sculpture

What will I study?

You’ll look at different approaches to art and use a range of media, techniques and materials. 

This course will allow you to explore ideas, convey experiences or respond to a theme or issue of personal significance. The skills you gain also make it a great complement to other subjects for example:

*Critical Thinking *Creativity *Problem solving

*Fine motor skills *Presentation skills/ Aesthetics *Perseverance

*Time management *Visual Communication *Analysis

*Research *Observation/ Eye for detail *Experimentation

Alongside improving your practical expertise, you’ll learn how to: 

 • Use drawing skills for different needs and purposes.

 • Successfully use visual language and the formal elements:  

colour, line, form, shape, tone, texture.

 •Develop, refine and record your ideas.

 •Present a personal response that realises your intentions. 

What would I enjoy about Art?

• Arts subjects encourage self-expression and creativity and can build confidence as well as a sense of individual identity.

• Creativity can also help with wellbeing and improving health and happiness. 

• Studying arts subjects help to develop critical thinking and the ability to interpret the world around us.

What careers is it useful for?

Art and design opens the door to lots of exciting careers:  Architecture, Art Therapist, Photography, Fashion design, Graphic design, Theatre design, Animator, Video game design, Illustrator, Museum curator, Product design, Textiles design, Ceramics, Advertising, Publishing, Interior design, Hair and make-up design, Exhibition design, Jewelry design, Freelance Artist, Visual media, Online Curator, Marketing and Furniture Design.

How is it examined?

• Component 1 Portfolio: This is worth 60% of your overall marks.

• Component 2 Externally set assignment: This is worth 40% of your total marks. 

The exam board provide an externally set task paper. You get preparation time, plus ten hours of supervised time.