GCSE Art and Design - Graphic Communication

Course summary

Graphic Communication is the process of designing primarily visual material to convey information, ideas, meaning and emotions, in response to a given or self-defined brief. This course introduces students to a variety of skills in Graphic Communication, exploring a range of graphic media, techniques and processes, including both traditional and new technologies. Students will study areas of illustration, advertising and branding, typography, 2D and 3D packaging design, design for print, communication graphics, interactive design (web, app and game), multimedia and signage. Students will develop knowledge and understanding from other contexts by investigating how sources can have a commercial, social or environmental focus, or provide stimulus for imaginative, creative or thoughtful purposes and ideas. Students gain an understanding of different styles, genres and traditions in the media and will develop new design skills for online use, using Photoshop and Illustrator software. Students must include writing and specialist vocabulary in written annotation about their own work and evaluating it, comparing approaches of other designers. The course covers these main areas of artistic activity: • Skills and techniques – developing drawing techniques, processes and showing an awareness of purpose and function within Graphic Communication. Exploring recording skills analytically and stylistically in a range of materials. • Knowledge and understanding – art, crafts and design are explored in a cultural framework and understanding context in research. Students are required to complete compulsory homework set to fulfil the assessment criteria and develop independent ideas. An ‘Art Pack’ is available to purchase through school to help them complete these tasks at home. Who should I speak to about this subject? Miss Haigh - Head of Art (cah@cleeveschool.net) OR your Art Teacher