Art
Head of Department : J.D. Oddie, BA (Manchester)Course Specification: OCR H161/H561
The Art course in the Sixth Form is exciting and flexible. It progresses
naturally from the philosophies and approaches adopted at GCSE. We encourage
and expect pupils to pursue personal paths. There are considerable opportunities
open to them in terms of the range and scale of the work they may undertake.
Art is a subject that encourages individuals to be creative, reflective, communicative
and appreciative of the world around them.
At the start of the course there is a series of lectures outlining the main
trends and developments in Western European Art, focusing on the period from
1840 to the present day. Pupils undertake analytical drawing from still life
and the model throughout. Pupils must have a genuine interest in, and commitment
to, the subject. Pupils need to spend considerable time outside formal lessons
researching, developing ideas and producing studies.
Pattern of Assessment
| AS Unit 1 F411 Coursework Portfolio [30%] Two pieces of work (themed) with supporting studies in the form of A1 sheets and sketchbooks, and an accompanying essay. |
The focus is on: direct recording; development of ideas; application of processes; identification and exploitation of visual relationships. The written element is intended to link directly with the portfolio work. |
| AS Unit 2 F421 Controlled Assignment [20%] One piece of work produced within a five-hour period under examination conditions. |
Studies made during a three-week preparatory period are submitted as evidence of research, development of ideas and problem-solving. |
| A2 Unit 3 F431 Personal Investigation [30%]. One piece of work is submitted with sketchbooks and a coursework portfolio, including experimental pieces. This is accompanied by an in-depth investigation of established artists’ work. The text may not exceed 3000 words. |
There is greater emphasis on a successful outcome and technical proficiency than at AS level. Evidence of continued development and progression in terms of process is essential. Design and presentation, as well as content, are assessed. |
| A2 Unit 4 F441 Controlled Test [20%] A completed piece produced in fifteen hours under examination conditions. |
Questions are given out several weeks in advance. The preparatory work produced during that period is submitted for assessment. |
Pupils taking Art to AS only complete their exams in the Trinity Quarter of the Lower Sixth.