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The Marlborough Science Academy

Graphic Communication - Key Stage 4

    

Students who choose to study Art and Design Graphic Communication at Key Stage 4 will follow the AQA GCSE Art and Design Graphic Communication course. 

Graphic Design is a form of visual communication. It is a process by which visual information is given form and structure, so as to communicate a message. Being a Graphic Designer is the profession of visual communication that combines images, words and ideas to convey information to an audience. It involves designing print or electronic forms of visual information for advertisement, publication or websites.

In Graphic Communication, students will complete a number of focussed practical tasks and 'Design and Make' projects that develop design and making skills, and theory inputs that develop knowledge and understanding of the subject.

They will:

  • Learn to be creative through the designing and modelling of new products and items.
  • Develop new drawing and rendering techniques to help express their ideas.
  • Develop skills using a range of computer design software packages.
  • Develop their knowledge and use of the design process, such as designing, planning, problem-solving and practical skills.
  • Research and analyse different lettering styles and learn about printing techniques.

To be awarded a GCSE in Graphic Communication, students are required to successfully complete 2 mandatory components:

  • Component 1 – Large scale portfolio including a range of skills from the Graphic Design industry.
  • Component 2 – 10-hour design based activity from an area of your choosing (the brief for this will be released 8 weeks prior to starting the activity to allow for preparation time).

Students must successfully demonstrate their achievement of all the learning outcomes for the components.

Students who achieve this qualification could progress onto Level 3 qualifications and A Levels, such as the Level 3 Applied General Certificate in Art & Design or A Level Design and Technology.

Studying Graphic Communication can lead to a wide range of career options: Engineering, Architecture, Interior Design, Surveying, Product Design, Furniture Design, Graphic Design, Art, Illustration, Media Studies, Transport Design, Advertising, Urban Design.

Curriculum Implementation 

Click here to view the curriculum implementation overview for Graphic Communication at Key Stage 4.

Curriculum Timelines 

Click here to view the curriculum timeline for Graphic Communication at Key Stage 4. 

Curriculum Learning Journey 

Click here to view the Learning Journey for Graphic Communication at Key Stage 4.

Knowledge Organisers 

Click on the links below to view the knowledge organisers for Graphic Communication:

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