Art introduces students to a variety of creative processes and techniques and allows students to experience various stimulants to fire their imagination in making responses which are personal. We work closely with other subjects, deepening a student’s experience of research and inspiration, and enrich their understanding with a carefully planned critical studies programme, which includes visits to galleries, museums and heritage sites.
Skills are gradually developed throughout KS3, and we use a wide range of materials and processes allowing students experience working in both 2 and 3 dimensions, and with a variety of media, including pencil, chalk, wire, paint, pens and pastels.
We build observation and drawing skills throughout the course as these are fundamental to the language of art and design. Drawing and painting are central to the communication of ideas, and we teach the skills required to create individual responses using these processes. Many students find expression through 3 dimensional techniques, craft methods such as printmaking or technological approaches such as photography or graphics. We encourage greater independence in the choices of media as students gain more experience in the practice of art.
Through project work, students learn about different cultures and artists approaches which will enable them to access the GCSE course. In addition, there are opportunities for KS3 students to participate in Art clubs or events, as well as community projects.
Aims of the Subject:
- To offer a stimulating and safe environment where students develop artistic skills and appreciation.
- To give students a range of skills to express their ideas and experiences clearly.
- To encourage independence
- To develop an appreciation of the work of others, and to appreciate art related opportunities in our own community.
- To promote a positive attitude towards their own and others’ work and ideas.
How are students assessed at KS3?
Students complete a baseline test at the start of the course to assess their potential ability in Art. This test includes an observational drawing and a written response.
For all subsequent assessments, students are awarded grades for their observational drawing and developing ideas. They are also assessed by how well they can refine their ideas and present a final conclusion to their project outline.
ART – GCSE
Examination Board: EDUQAS
What will be studied:
This broad course encourages students to develop ideas through looking at the work of other artists, designers and craftspeople. Students have opportunities to experiment with a range of materials in 2-D and 3-D. Students learn how to make and record observations using a range of methods, including drawing, painting, photography and ICT. Finally, students will develop methods for presenting personal and meaningful work, which reflects their research and experiments on a given theme. During the course, students will create work in a range of disciplines including drawing and painting, mixed media, 3-D, textiles and print making.
Students will develop a portfolio of work both in class and through regular homework tasks, which encourage independent skill development.
Written elements:
Whilst students’ practical and creative work is the key focus of the assessment, students’ written analysis and personal annotations are also required.
Assessment
Students produce a Coursework Portfolio, which is assessed throughout the course, and is worth 60% of the final grade. The work is moderated by Art department staff prior to final assessment by the exam board.
Externally Set Assessment:
The examination paper is issued in January of Year 11. Students will develop personal ideas from an externally set starting point. The preparation period continues throughout the Spring term of Year 11, ending in a 10-hour exam at Easter, in which a final piece is produced. All preparatory studies, artist research and the final piece is worth 40% of the total mark.
Support and enrichment
The Art rooms are available after school every day for students to gain extra help and support with their coursework tasks. In addition to this we plan to organise a visit to specifically selected exhibitions and/or galleries relevant to the year’s theme.
Next Steps:
The GCSE Art course is an ideal steppingstone to A-level Art courses. Students could also choose to go into apprenticeships in art-related subjects or move forward onto a degree-level course.
Possible careers for students working in Art include routes into teaching, working with young children, arts administration, illustration, fashion, hair and beauty or design-based careers, such as architecture and car design, or working in the television and film industry.
Further information from Mrs W Wrafter & Miss H Antill