In key stage 3, themes are set to enables pupils to think and respond creatively, thereby developing as effective and independent learners. Art and design provides a unique vehicle for communication and a distinctive way of learning. It educates by increasing knowledge and developing understanding through expression of ideas, feelings and the practice of skills. Creativity begins in the imagination, in memories and through things seen and experienced.
Here at Crumlin Integrated College, pupils get the opportunity to practice their observational and recording skills. This invites personal response and reinforces the uniqueness of the individual. An understanding of the visual elements of colour, tone, line and shape, form and space, texture and pattern, also contributes to the development of pupils’ aesthetic awareness. Lessons encourage pupils to engage in critical thinking, for example, by expressing in words their understanding of how an art work was made, its purpose and what it means. Evaluation invites pupils to adapt their thinking, to modify their work, make changes when necessary, and arrive at personal solutions. Their work is also supported by use and application of IT skills and investigation. Appreciating the work of artists, designers and craft workers helps pupils gain information about the context in which it was created, how people perceived the world in which they lived and the characteristics and use of media and materials. Pupils also
Pupils study Art and Design for two forty minute periods per week.
Exam Board: CCEA
Qualification Title: GCSE Art & Design
Crumlin Integrated College pupils study the CCEA GCSE Art and Design Specification. GCSE Art and Design builds on and reflects on the diverse range of experiences, skills and processes gained at KS3. The course provides pupils with the opportunity to broaden their repertoire of skills and capabilities in Art and Design. The Art department encourages personal studies and experimentation in their work and to the credit of our pupils who have achieved 100% A* – C grades for the past 10 years.
Pupils who follow this course have the freedom and flexibility to make personal choices in relation to themes and media. They are encouraged to choose from a broad range of disciplines and are given the opportunities to visit museums and galleries. They will develop their ability for independent learning, critical thinking and analysis and evaluation of their own and others work. The course is 100% coursework, split into two sections:
Unit 1 The Core Portfolio (60%)
Unit 2 Externally set assignment (40%)
Both units will be internally marked and externally moderated by CCEA
Unit 1
The work for the Core Portfolio will begin immediately at the start of year 11. The emphasis will be on broad, creative learning experiences that introduce students to art, craft and design skills and technical knowledge. Pupils will work individually and creatively to develop personal ideas in response to a given theme or stimulus. They will experiment with a wide range of media, materials, techniques and technologies to develop their existing skills. The portfolio should include one piece of work that follows a process through to final outcome. Pupils must complete all work for the Core Portfolio (with the exception of research) under supervision.
Unit 2
The externally set assignment/theme is issued in January of the year of the examination. There is a set period of time for the student to develop preparatory work based on the theme or stimulus. The final outcome will be completed in a set period of 10 hours (over 2 days) and will be carried out under controlled conditions within the Art department
