AS/A2 AQA

Graphic Communication is an endorsed course from the AQA Art and Design specification. Throughout the course students will have the opportunity to produce practical and critical / contextual work and to study a range of methods and techniques. Students will gain experience in a range of areas including, communication, computer graphics, illustration, advertising and packaging. All students will get the opportunity to work with digital software packages, including Adobe Photoshop and will also experience working with a range of traditional techniques.

Course Outline
4 units, 2 at AS level and 2 at A2 level

AS Level
Unit 1, 50% of AS marks, 25% of A2 marks
Portfolio - a coursework unit where you will produce a collection of materials which exemplifies work carried out during the AS course.  Students will be introduced to a selection of graphic approaches and will be selective when deciding what to submit for this unit.

Unit 2, 50% of AS marks, 25% of A2 marks
Externally set assignment - you will choose from starting points set by AQA. There will be a preparation phase over several weeks, where you will develop work leading to a final outcome.  During the preparation phase there will be a 5 hour supervised exam.

A2 Level
Unit 3, 25% of A2 marks
Personal investigation – you will develop a personal investigation based on an issue, concept or theme supported by 1000 - 3000 words.

Unit 4, 25% of A2 marks
Externally set assignment - you will choose from starting points set by AQA. There will be a preparation phase of several weeks, where you will develop work leading to a final outcome, produced during a 15 hour supervised exam.

Preferred Entry Requirements
It is advisable that students have a background in either GCSE Art and Design or Graphic Products.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.