GCSE Art at Ousedale School

Introduction to Course

GCSE Art students work in mixed-ability groups with the emphasis on the individual's progress. It is, therefore, possible for students of all abilities to succeed and gain enjoyment from their artwork as long as they are prepared to make the effort. In fact we consider effort to be as important as ability.

All students follow a common course and will be introduced to a wide variety of materials, techniques and approaches to study. The aim is to lead to a fuller understanding of the visual arts through practical experience and theoretical studies. We also aim to encourage enjoyment and to build self confidence.

Course Content

The coursework is divided into 3 units of work. Each unit is a collection of art activities designed to demonstrate the approaches to study. These are as follows:

• Personal responses to direct observation, memory, experience and imagination; and developing ideas, investigating, researching;
• Studying and researching art and artists, crafts and design; and relating these to the student's own work; Making informed judgements and comments using a specialist vocabulary.
• Using and demonstrating competence in a range of materials in two or three dimensions;
• Reviewing, modifying and refining ideas in order to produce finished art work.

Course Assessment

Coursework is important and accounts for 60% of the final grade, the other 40% being an end-of-course examination.

Failure to complete or submit the required coursework will mean the student is not eligible to be entered for the final examination.

The final examination is conducted as a controlled unit and must include all the approaches to study. It will, therefore, be a very comprehensive collection of work produced over a period of time with the emphasis on preparation and development, sustained effort and continuity. Success in the examination demands self-discipline and motivation equally as much as artistic skills. The controlled element of the exam is 10 hours of supervised time but the student may include additional personal study work and preparation with the final submission.

All work is externally modified.