Art A-Level

Why study Art A Level?

Art is a course that is both enjoyable and rewarding. It is a chance for you to unlock your creativity and experiment with a range of media, including drawing, painting, digital media and printing. Building on prior skills and knowledge you will develop techniques in a range of artistic styles. You will explore and gain an understanding of the visual world around you and investigate ways to record images and develop your knowledge of genres in art and art history.

The course emphasises the importance of independent learning and self-directed research, exploration and experimentation along with contextual research and academic creative thinking.

Art is not only for students who wish to pursue a career in the artistic industry, it will also allow you to develop transferrable skills such as problem solving, contextual thinking, analysis and greater visual    literacy.

Gallery visits are an integral part of the course and students will be encouraged to visit  galleries.

Course Content

The initial part of the A level course allows for students to explore and practice working in various media through a series of workshops. The intention is to provide a wide range of skills so that when it comes to selecting a theme for The Personal Investigation each can use their knowledge and experience to recall useful processes and techniques.

The Personal Investigation requires students to independently select a theme or concept to explore in depth. Students must be able to show development and refinement of ideas from start to final outcomes. As well as producing a body of practical work the students will also be required to hand in a written response between 1000 – 3000 words. This piece should be closely linked and in support of their practical work.

Assessment

Component 1: personal investigation—no time limit—96 marks—60% of A-level.

Component 2: Externally set assignment—Preparatory period + 15 hours  supervised time—96 marks—40% of A-level.

Future careers linked to this subject:

The course is a valuable starting point for students considering a career within a creative or media based industry and will promote a questioning and sensitive approach contributing towards a balanced programme of study.

Entry Requirements

Grade 6 in Art GCSE. Students who haven't taken GCSE Art will need to submit a portfolio.

Examination Board

AQA

Teachers to Contact:

Mr Venter