Level 3 Design and Visual Communication

Course Description 

Level 3 requires research into developing ideas from other sources and using the lines to create and develop new ideas. There is also research into presentations to enhance their own work on display. There is a high level development of spatial and product design. The use of computer applications, freehand and instrumental is used with justification for the task.

Topics covered: Produce 2D and 3D annotated freehand sketches to show design ideas through ideation • Produce a mock-up and model to explore design ideas. •Design and present a solution for an architectural or environmental brief • Design and present a solution for an engineering or technological brief • Design and present a display to an audience.

Recommendation for subject entry 

• DVC200

• If Level 2 Design & Visual Communications was not taken in 2025, 15 credits in Level 2 English and 15 credits in Level 2 Mathematics.

Assessment

NCEA L3 is based on a selection of internal and externally assessed achievement and unit standards. Work will be collated in portfolio format.

• 91627: Initiate design ideas through exploration - 4 Credits

• 91628: Develop a visual presentation that exhibits a design outcome to an audience - 6 Credits

• 91629: Resolve a Spatial design through graphics practice - 6 Credits

• 91630: Resolve a Product design through graphics practice - 6 Credits

Course contributions

Returning students are asked to contribute towards the cost of $20 Printing and sundries. A Drawing Kit can be purchased if required. A3 sketchbooks/pens can also be ordered as top-ups. Students who are new to the course will have to buy a Drawing Kit and sundries ($40.00).