Introduction
All around us are brands, logos and advertisements. From billboards to adverts in magazines, and film or music merchandise, we are surrounded by the art of graphic design.
Graphic Design is about crossing new boundaries, and is a problem-solving activity which combines visual understanding with skill and knowledge in areas of communications, technology and business.
The graphic design process is an investigative process, one that requires substantial creativity, innovation and technical expertise.
You will be expected to have an ability to draw well in the subject or a passion to learn.
What will you do?
Graphic Communication is a practical drawing subject which requires:
- the application of knowledge and understanding when developing ideas;
- drawing ideas by hand and on specialised computer software Adobe Illustrator;
- planning for final pieces;
- producing and modelling products;
- evaluating products.
The projects on this course can range from 2D design work of posters, advertising and display as well as work covering packaging and products.
You need the capability of a good standard of drawing and presentation as you will be required to communicate your ideas using good quality drawings and visual language.
You should have an interest in art and enjoy using specific computer softwares to develop ideas.
You will study:
Year 9
Basic Graphics skills by hand and on computer software Adobe Illustrator.
Year 10
Major coursework project personalised to suit your skills. You will have a selection of different briefs to chose from.
Year 11
Completing your externally set assignment set by AQA (EXAM).
How will I be assessed?
Component 1: Portfolio
You will be assessed on the projects you complete over the three years of study. You will need to demonstrate, through an extended creative response your ability to draw knowledge together different areas of knowledge, skills and understanding from across the course of study.
Component 2: Externally set assignment
AQA will provide a several brief which you will have the option of choosing. You will produce a portfolio of research and development work and a final outcome.
What skills will I learn?
- Use graphic communication techniques and processes, appropriate to you work and personal intentions for example:
- typography
- illustration
- digital and non-digital photography
- hand rendered working methods
- digital working methods
- use media and materials as appropriate to your personal intentions, for example;
- pencil, pen and ink, pen and wash, crayon, and other graphical media
- watercolour, gouache and acrylic paint
- layout materials
- digital media
- printmaking
- mixed media
How can Graphics help me in the future?
There are various careers in Graphics. Here are some examples:
- Graphic Designer;
- Web Designer;
- Photographer;
- Art Director;
- Animator;
- Illustrator;
- Printmaker;
- Production designer – theatre / T.V.
GCSE Graphic Communication provides you with a suitable foundation for the continued study of graphics at a more advanced level e.g.
- A Level Graphic Communication/Design;
- A Level Art and Design
- BTEC Level 3 in Graphic Design;
- BTEC Level 3 in Creative Media Production (Print-based Media);
- Level 2 Apprenticeship in Design Support.
How do I find out more?
Ask Mrs. Heafield for more information and guidance.
Email: e.heafield@oakwood.ac
