A-Levels - Graphic Communication

Program Description

Candidates will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of graphic media, techniques and processes. They will be made aware of both traditional and new technologies. Candidates will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. This should be integral to the investigating and making process. Their responses to these examples must be shown through practical and critical activities which demonstrate the candidates’ understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. Candidates should be aware of the four assessment objectives to be demonstrated in the content and skills presented and of the importance of process as well as product. Candidates should explore drawing using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales.

Areas of Study

Candidates are required to work in one or more area(s) of Graphic Communication, such as those listed below. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas

• illustration
  
• advertising
• packaging design
• design for print
• communication and computer graphics
• multimedia, animation, web design, film, television and/or video

Skills and Techniques

Candidates will be expected to demonstrate skills, in the context of their chosen area(s) of Graphic Communication. Candidates will be required to demonstrate skills in all of the following:

• understanding of meaning, function, style, scale, colour and content in relation to the chosen area(s) of Graphic Communication
  
• awareness of intended audience or purpose for their chosen area(s) of Graphic Communication
• ability to respond to an issue, concept or idea, working to a brief or answering a need in the chosen area(s) of Graphic Communication
• appreciation of the relationship of form and function and, where applicable, the constraints of working to a brief
• appreciation of the appropriate use of typography (which could include hand lettering and calligraphy), signs and symbols
• understanding of a variety of materials and genres appropriate to their chosen area(s) of Graphic Communication