Fine Art
Examination Board AQA
Course Code 7201
- Component 1 Personal Investigation
- Component 2 Externally Set Exam
Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Art or Graphics at GCSE
Why Study Art & Design at A Level?
Art & Design at A Level is a diverse course which requires students to think for themselves and show initiative and enthusiasm. Students will be able to work in one area in depth, or several areas which include types of painting, printmaking, 3D, textile and photography specialisms.
The course will provide you with the opportunity to progress your creative skills through the exploration of a wide range of materials. This will be done whilst developing a variety of techniques and will ultimately result in producing an extensive portfolio of work that will equip you for entry to employment or into higher education. A range of artists and craftspeople, both contemporary and from the past, will be introduced in order to further support the development of work.
Students will also get the opportunity to go on a trip to a museum or gallery that is relevant to the area of study at the time to help broaden knowledge and understanding for the course.
What will I study?
The course will begin with a series of workshop activities. These will broaden your skill base and help you build a portfolio. You will be given the opportunity to use a variety of materials and processes, experimenting with techniques and researching the work of other designers. The course will continue with themed briefs which you will be asked to respond too in your own style, while being influenced by the work of others. You will also be asked to demonstrate understanding by analysing and evaluating work, through the process of written essays.
What will lessons be like?
To begin with the majority of lessons with will be practical in nature. Staff will lead on workshop activities, with a focus of learning new skills. Once a brief is set, lessons will become more focused on the journey of your project. Students will be encouraged to work independently, following verbal and written guidance from staff. You will have access to a 6th form only area of the Art block where you can have your own space, plus access to materials, computers and colour printing.
How will my work be assessed?
You will be given both verbal and written feedback from staff at intervals throughout the course.
You will build a portfolio of work based on a selected theme, which is ultimately worth 60% of your qualification. This will be marked by staff and then be externally moderated by a moderator from the exam board.
The external set assignment makes up the other 40% of your A-level. You have the opportunity to choose your own theme from a range provided by the exam board. This culminates with a 15 hour supervised session, usually over the course of three days. This again is marked in house by staff and moderator by a moderator from the exam board.
