GCSE Graphic Communications

What will I study?

In Component 1 (Portfolio) and Component 2 (Externally set assignment) students are required to work in one or more area(s) of graphic communication, such as those listed below:

• communication graphics

• design for print

• advertising and branding

• illustration

• package design

• typography

• interactive design (including web, app and game)

• multi-media

• motion graphics

• signage

• exhibition graphics.

They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas.

How many pieces of coursework are required? (Component 1- 60% of Final Mark)

A portfolio that in total shows explicit coverage of the four assessment objectives. It must include a sustained project evidencing the journey from initial engagement to the realisation of intentions and a selection of further work undertaken during the student’s course of study.

How many examinations will I take? (Component 2- 40% of Final Mark)

One in the spring term of Year 11.  Students respond to their chosen starting point from an externally set assignment paper relating to their subject title, evidencing coverage of all four assessment objectives.  This is assessed after the creation of a preparatory portfolio and sketchbook, produced over a period of 6-10 weeks, followed by 10 hours of supervised exam conditions time to manufacture the final outcomes. 

What qualities do I need to be successful?

You should be interested in:

·        All or most areas of Visual Communication, current and past designers and artists.

·        Being creative, imaginative and practical.

·        Investigating and experimenting with techniques and materials.

·        Using a combination of hand drawings, media experimentation and computer aided design to generate ideas to manufacture.

Will I have any choice in terms of the subject areas I study?

All students will be given an initial design brief that may focus on one area, but it will allow for the students to develop creative thinking and ability into expressing their own interpretation of the final outcome.

What sort of teaching styles are typically used?

A range of teaching styles will be used, including: whole-class, focused practical tasks, group work, one-to-one tutorial sessions, ICT led sessions and individually led challenges.

Is there anything else you think I should know about this subject?

There is no written exam in this specification unlike the GCSE Design and Technology offered previously.  It is the same assessment model as the Art, Craft and Design GCSE 8201 but the subject focus is all Graphic Communication and a more noticeable use of the ICT to produce effective imagery.