Art & Design GCSE

Here are some Top Tips for Art, Craft and Design 

1. Understand the Assessment Criteria

Eduqas GCSE Art is assessed on four assessment objectives (AOs), each worth 25%:

AO1: Develop ideas by researching artists and cultural influences.

AO2: Experiment with different materials and techniques.

AO3: Record ideas through sketches, photography, and written annotations.

AO4: Present a final piece that connects to your research and development.

2. Stay on Top of Coursework (60% of Your Final Grade!)

The coursework is called a "Portfolio", so make sure it is well-organized and complete.

• Keep a sketchbook updated with artist research, development work, and personal reflections.

• Show progression in your ideas from research to experimentation to final piece.

• Annotate your work—explain why you chose certain techniques or artists.

3. Research and Reference Artists Effectively

• Find at least 2–3 artists or cultures related to your project theme.

• Study their techniques, color use, and materials—then apply these influences in your own style.

• Use mind maps and mood boards to show how their work inspired yours.

4. Experiment with Different Media

• Use a variety of materials—paint, pencil, charcoal, pastels, mixed media, and even digital art.

• Show evidence of risk-taking and pushing your creative boundaries.

• Reflect on your experiments—what worked, what didn’t, and why?

5. Master Observational Drawing & Photography

• Strong drawing skills help in all aspects of art—practice still life, portraits, landscapes, and textures.

• Take high-quality photographs as references for your work (PRIMARY SOURCE)

• Try different perspectives, lighting, and compositions.

6. Plan for the 10-Hour Exam (40% of Your Grade)

• The Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) gives you a theme and prep time before a 10-hour final piece exam.

• Plan multiple ideas and test them out before committing to one.

• Make sure your final piece links back to your artist research and development work.

• Stay realistic—choose a design you can complete in the given time.

7. Annotate Effectively

Keep annotations brief but meaningful—explain:

• What you did

• Why you did it

• What inspired you

• How you could improve it

Use clear, artistic language and avoid generic statements like “I liked it" or "It's unique" 

8. Keep Your Work Neat and Organized

Presentation and 'book craft' matters! Arrange your sketchbook pages neatly and creatively.

Ensure all work is mounted correctly and labelled if necessary.

Use clear headings, borders, and annotations to guide the examiner through your project.

Anyone should be able to look through your Portfolio and understand the journey you are going on. 

9. Manage Your Time Well

Coursework takes months—set small goals and deadlines, 

Work consistently to avoid rushing at the last minute.

Practice time management for the final exam—allocate time for sketching, painting, and details.

10. Be Original and Personal

Examiners love unique, meaningful, and personal work.

Incorporate elements from your own experiences, culture, or emotions.

Don't just copy an artist—adapt their style to create something new!

Chances |  Choices | Culture