ART
FREE OPTION CHOICE
Gcse art During this course, students need to draw upon skills acquired during Key Stage 3. They will enjoy a more independent approach to work and experiment with a variety of materials using a range of art, craft and design processes in two and/or threedimensions, with both traditional and new technologies.
Although it is not necessary to be highly skilled at drawing to take Art, enthusiasm and commitment is needed to do well. A new emphasis on drawing has been placed in the new specification. The Art and Design GCSE course also helps students to explore and extend their key skills in
communication and problem solving. Integral to the creative making processes in Art, students will need to investigate art and artists from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. During the first year, the work relates to two prescribed themes and responses to these themes should demonstrate an understanding of different styles and traditions. In the second year students have the freedom to allow their interests, curiosity, and aptitudes to dictate the focus of their studies. Some of the highlights of the course are visits to art galleries and design centres. This final assessment is a combination of a portfolio of work (60%) and the externally set task (40%). In the examination at the end of the course there will be ten - hours to complete a focused study. The coursework consists of two major units of work completed during Years 10 and 11 including all pieces of work completed
WHY ART? The internet has created an explosion of opportunity for digital designers and multimedia artists, animators and illustrators, especially those who are computer savvy. Art continues to be a desirable option for students wishing to pursue ‘traditional’ creative careers, such as architecture, interior design or fine art related professions. Those who make fine art, sculptures, photographs, fashion garments and other hand-crafted products are able to market and sell these directly to the public, without going through a third-party such as a gallery. Art enhances fine motor skills, hand - eye coordination, problem solving skills, lateral thinking, complex analysis and critical thinking skills. Those who can arrange, present and display material in a way that is aesthetically pleasing have an advantage in the workplace whilst coursework teaches you self-discipline.
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