Dsign Technology (Graphic Design)
GCSE
What will I study?
Visual images surround us continually, demanding our attention, giving us information or trying to make a memorable impression. Graphic design covers the huge area of ways we use visual information to enhance our lives and the society we live in.
Maps of the London underground, the logo and style of mobile phones, product packaging and architecture are just a few of the areas that the graphic designer influences. The more they can develop ways of communicating information and visual images in memorable and clear ways, the more successful they will be.
In Year 10 you will be looking at how images and text are designed to clearly communicate. You will be designing letterheads, process diagrams, scale drawings, building plans and packaging nets. You will be mainly experimenting with different drawing techniques, some free hand, some with drawing instruments and some using ICT, although you will also look at the wider materials of plastics, woods, textiles and metals.
You will be looking at how colour is used effectively in a range of contexts. You will also be using CAD software to design and manufacture products using vinyl cutting and laser cutting systems.
How will I be assessed?
In Year 11 you will design and make a project chosen from a range set by the exam board. This project counts for 50% of the final grade. Examples of projects completed by past students are children's books, DVD covers, point of sale display stands, signage etc.
The course is assessed in two parts:
- a coursework project made in Year 11 worth 50%.
- an examination sat at the end of the course worth 50%.
Teaching and learning approaches
A practical approach is taken throughout the course where you will learn a range of designing and presentation skills needed to make a design successful. Some of these techniques include sketching, colour work, isometric, orthographic, perspective and scale drawings, produced both manually and on CAD software. You will look at a range of commercial printing methods which allow designs to be mass produced in different ways.
Independent Learning
Students will be given one half hour written homework task each week during Year 10. In Year 11, homework is related to the coursework project and is expected to take a similar time allocation.
The Future
A successful qualification in Design and Technology will prepare you to move onto the DT A Level course plus higher qualifications. These qualifications lead to a range of careers in graphic design, gaming design, architecture, interior design, advertising etc.
Further Information
Speak to Mr Scott or your current DT teacher.
