Graphics Products

Welcome

Graphics is a popular subject at both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4.  Pupils are able to explore their creative ability through a range of products, developing and using a range of techniques.

KS3 Information

In Graphics pupils explore a range of Graphic skills through 2 projects.  Both projects concentrate upon developing drawing and presentation skills.  Pupils learn about Typography, Computer Aided Design (CAD), Manufacture, Product Analysis & Advertising.

Each pupil will have an opportunity to complete both projects over the 3 years of Key Stage 3 on a carousel system. 

The first project is a ‘CD Maze’.  Pupils are required to design and make a children’s maze which fits inside an empty CD case.  To do this pupils make use of specialist equipment including the laser cutter.  In addition, pupils produce an activity book to accompany the maze that fits inside the sleeve of the case – this booklet should also promote the product.

The second project is called ‘Den of Dragons’, this project incorporates the schools Enterprise specialism.  Pupils are asked to package and promote their choice of item.  This item once packaged has to be promoted through various forms of advertising.  Pupils work in small groups to promote their item; they can produce a commercial or presentation in order to sell their product to their peers in a ‘Dragons Den’ style.

KS4 Information

GCSE Graphics (AQA)

Year 10

Throughout the first two terms of Year 10 pupils will start working on a series of mini projects; creating an activity book, packaging for a watch and finally a board game.  Alongside these projects pupils will experiment with many different techniques and processes, such as Typography, Illustration, Drawing & Presentation skills in order to give them the experience needed for Year 11.  These techniques will be created and collected in a sketch book throughout both years.

Alongside these tasks, pupils will also be given the opportunity to design and make the advertising materials needed to promote the Year 11 Fashion Show, including the final ticket design.  

In the last term of Year 10 pupils will follow one of 5 controlled assessments set by the exam board.  This controlled assessment will expand on the techniques developed in Year 10 and will result in a Graphics product being produced.  As well as starting their controlled assessment, Year 10 are given the opportunity to take their Graphics exam which is worth 40% of the overall mark.

Year 11

Pupils continue with the controlled assessment started in Year 10 and develop throughout this task, an A3 folder containing 20 sheets of research, design ideas, development and evaluation; this will then be presented alongside their practical product. 

Once complete, pupils will be given the opportunity to re-sit their exam if they were below their expected grade.  The highest mark achieved will be the mark that contributes towards their final grade GCSE grade.

Next Steps

• Teaching
• Graphic Design
• Design Architecture
• Design Illustration
• Animation
• Interior Design
• Web-Site Design
• Packaging Design
• Product Design
• Print Production and Advertising