GCSE Graphic Communication

Delivered as a cutting edge programme we enthuse our students to work as creative designers and Illustrators and to take inspiration from real life briefs and professional practices. Graphic Communication is a creative subject that allows and encourages ideas to be formed using traditional drawing, mixed media and computer skills. The emphasis is to allow individuals to experiment and develop a range of skills that they are then able to build on, developing an understanding of how Graphic designers use colour, image and typography to communicate an idea. It is highly influenced by current trends including music and fashion and is at the forefront of modern design.

Examination Board
OCR

Assessment
Portfolio 60% Externally set task 40% No written paper

The Portfolio is based on learning a range of skills which will allow students to develop as artists and designers, they will produce a range of projects in response to a given brief or stimuli. Students will have the opportunity to write their own brief to suit their own interests. Assessment is delivered through regular individual tutorials and written feedback is provided to encourage and inspire progress and attainment leading to the successful completion of the GCSE. Progress points allow for more rigourous assessment against exam criteria to allow students to gain a sound understanding of expectations.

Unit Content
The Portfolio has been developed to encourage students to incorporate their own interests into their studies, inspiring them to ‘love their projects’ and in turn has a positive impact on both progress and attainment. Skills lessons include: Formal drawing techniques, typography, book illustration, print based study, working with Apple Macs, Adobe Creative Suite : inc Photoshop & Illustrator which are introduced at a beginners level through to advanced. Students will undertake a range of small practical projects that will build upon techniques learnt and prepare them for post 16 study. The set task is a project is provided by the exam board, students interpret one of the starting points working to their strengths and in their own unique style. They will focus on this in the latter part of YR11 and produce a body of work that will culminate in a 10 hour exam where they will produce a final response.

Career Progression
The GCSE course equips students with the key elements of designing and illustration needed to undertake the A level course. As technology advances employment options are expanding within the field of Graphic design and Graphic Communication can help to open the door to a variety of careers. Past Beauchamp students have gone on to become successful Illustrators, Graphic and interior designers as well as Architects. Currently some candidates are moving into the digital field of games design.

Extra Curricular
Twilight and lunch time (Graphics club) sessions are offered on a weekly basis throughout the year to allow students to develop and challenge themselves and to also offer one to one support to any individual who may require extra help with a particular element of their studies. There are also opportunities to enter external competitions and take part in visits to galleries and museums.