Art and Design A Level (See Option Blocks on our website)

During A-Levels students develop a self-led project focussing on artists and themes that are of interest to them. The media and approaches used will be very much led by the students’ personal strengths and, if appropriate, their intentions for further education. Students produce a sustained body of research and experimentation and plan to complete a final piece or series of pieces which may take the form of paintings, drawings or three-dimensional pieces.

The course consists of two units of work; a coursework portfolio and an externally set assignment. The assessed coursework requires large portfolio of practical work including an extended personal investigation. In addition you will complete a personal study in the form of an extended essay or presentation into an area of artistic practise of your choice linked to your practical work. This is followed by an external assignment to be completed in year thirteen.

The Art & Design specification allows students to work in a wide variety of media and processes. Aspects of the work may include:

• Exploring a range of media such as painting, drawing, photography, mixed media, ceramics and print-making and three dimensional media.
• Using sketchbooks to record, analyse and express ideas.
• Working on a variety of scales including large scale and three dimensional work.
• Visits to local and national art galleries.
• Researching and exploring ideas inspired by artists.
• Themes such as Environment, Figure, Relationships and Identity.

Unit 1- Personal Investigation- 50% of A Level

Candidates select and present an extended project demonstrating a sustained investigation into media, processes and ideas. This may draw upon work produced in both year twelve and year thirteen, and may contain one or a series of finished artworks. In addition, commencing in year thirteen, candidates develop a personal investigation based on an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by a written element of no less than 1,000 words and no more than 3,000 words. This unit is set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA.

Unit 2- Externally Set Assignment- 50% of A level

Candidates select one of eight starting points. The externally set assignment will last from February until May. Candidates will produce preparatory work and a finished piece or pieces during the fifteen hours of unaided, supervised time. This unit is set by AQA , marked by the centre and moderated by AQA.

Most students will be expected to have achieved at least grade 4 in GCSE Art & Design or a related subject as an entry requirement for the course. In addition the following personal

qualities are essential:

• An enthusiasm for the subject
• The capacity to explore, investigate and develop ideas
• The ability to develop artistic skills in a range of media
• A degree of independence and self-motivation
• An interest in seeing works of art at first hand
• The ability to meet deadlines and manage time effectively
• The literacy skills necessary to present written ideas

Although individual expression and creativity are important ingredients when studying art, success on this course does require a disciplined, business-like approach.