In the first term, we introduce students to a range of mark making skills, graphic communication techniques and CAD skills. These will start to build up a design portfolio of practical outcomes. The second half of year 12 will expand on skills and practices developed and students begin Component 1: Personal investigation: this is a coursework unit where students will develop a personal investigation, produce a design portfolio and final piece based on an idea, issue, concept or era, supported by 1,000-3,000 word essay or written report. This counts for 60% of A level marks and we will work on this till January in year 13. Component 2: we begin this in February of year 13. An externally set practical coursework assignment (exam) with 15 hours’ supervised time, plus preparation. This makes up 40% of A level marks. Students 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: • advertising • packaging design • design for print • illustration • communication graphics • interactive media • branding • multimedia • architecture & the built environment • design for film and television You will be introduced to a variety of experiences that explore a range of graphic communication media, processes and techniques. You will learn about both traditional and new media and will explore the use of drawing for different purposes, using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales. You will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, which will be integral to the investigating and making processes. Responses to these examples must be shown through practical and critical activities that demonstrate your understanding of different styles, genres and traditions.