Entry requirements: You should enjoy solving image-based problems which are suitable for commercial application and enjoy working to Design Briefs. You will be given the opportunity to work on projects relating to design, illustration and typography through a wide range of media both using traditional hand skills as well as developing your ideas and images using specialist computer software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Course content: Graphic Communication consists of an initial skills-based project followed by a self-directed practical project. In year 13 this will include a written research project. You will also complete a 10-hour mock exam in year 12 and a 15-hour exam in year 13. In Component 1, students develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Practical elements should make connections with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographers or craftspeople and include written work of no less than 1000 and no more than 3000 words which supports the practical work. In Component 2, students respond to a stimulus, provided by AQA, to produce work which provides evidence of their ability to work independently within specified time constraints, developing a personal and meaningful response which addresses all the assessment objectives and leads to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Assessment: The assessments will measure how students have achieved the following assessment objectives: AO1: Develop ideas through sustained and focused investigations informed by contextual and other sources, demonstrating analytical and critical understanding. AO2: Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processes, reviewing and refining ideas as work develops. AO3: Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions, reflecting critically on work and progress. AO4: Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and, where appropriate, makes connections between visual and other elements. Coursework 60% included 3000+ word written research project that is worth 20% of the final mark. 15-hour Practical Exam sat in sessions over a three-week period worth 40% of the final mark. Why graphic Communication at Samuel Ryder Academy? Samuel Ryder is currently the only St Albans school offering specialist A level Graphic Communication. The Graphics department has developed over the past few years with an aim to provide students with a practical and subject that encompasses both high quality creative skills alongside practical employable design skills. We have connections to a variety of local brands and companies to give students real life design opportunities and experiences. The graphics department has up to date technology and machinery such as a a3 sublimation printer and heat press, laser cutters and 3d printers. Expectations of students: A level graphic Communication requires students to be independent and inquisitive learners. To complete the content, students will be required to work outside of the lesson time. Students will need to be keen to promote their designing skills, but also be prepared to study more of the knowledge side of the subject for the exams. Career paths: Graphic design, web design, animation, game design, illustration, product design, brand identity design.
About Education Provider
| Region | East of England |
| Local Authority | Hertfordshire |
| Ofsted Rating | Good |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| Address | Drakes Drive, St Albans, AL1 5AR |
Entry requirements: You should enjoy solving image-based problems which are suitable for commercial application and enjoy working to Design Briefs. You will be given the opportunity to work on projects relating to design, illustration and typography through a wide range of media both using traditional hand skills as well as developing your ideas and images using specialist computer software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Course content: Graphic Communication consists of an initial skills-based project followed by a self-directed practical project. In year 13 this will include a written research project. You will also complete a 10-hour mock exam in year 12 and a 15-hour exam in year 13. In Component 1, students develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Practical elements should make connections with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographers or craftspeople and include written work of no less than 1000 and no more than 3000 words which supports the practical work. In Component 2, students respond to a stimulus, provided by AQA, to produce work which provides evidence of their ability to work independently within specified time constraints, developing a personal and meaningful response which addresses all the assessment objectives and leads to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Assessment: The assessments will measure how students have achieved the following assessment objectives: AO1: Develop ideas through sustained and focused investigations informed by contextual and other sources, demonstrating analytical and critical understanding. AO2: Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processes, reviewing and refining ideas as work develops. AO3: Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions, reflecting critically on work and progress. AO4: Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and, where appropriate, makes connections between visual and other elements. Coursework 60% included 3000+ word written research project that is worth 20% of the final mark. 15-hour Practical Exam sat in sessions over a three-week period worth 40% of the final mark. Why graphic Communication at Samuel Ryder Academy? Samuel Ryder is currently the only St Albans school offering specialist A level Graphic Communication. The Graphics department has developed over the past few years with an aim to provide students with a practical and subject that encompasses both high quality creative skills alongside practical employable design skills. We have connections to a variety of local brands and companies to give students real life design opportunities and experiences. The graphics department has up to date technology and machinery such as a a3 sublimation printer and heat press, laser cutters and 3d printers. Expectations of students: A level graphic Communication requires students to be independent and inquisitive learners. To complete the content, students will be required to work outside of the lesson time. Students will need to be keen to promote their designing skills, but also be prepared to study more of the knowledge side of the subject for the exams. Career paths: Graphic design, web design, animation, game design, illustration, product design, brand identity design.