GCSE Art and Design: Graphic Communication

Why choose this subject?

If you are considering studying a Level 3 Art and Design course at College or 6th Form.

Graphics is about being able to choose the right kind of visual language to be able to communicate ideas, information and meaning clearly. Choose this option if you are interested in signage, logos, advertising, illustration, packaging and poster design. You will learn how to use visual language to create your own successful pieces of design. This is a practical course, choose it if you love drawing, enjoy finding possible solutions to design questions and want to improve your visual communication skills.

You need to be able to draw with accuracy and be willing to practise your recording skills using a wide range of materials and techniques. 

Course content

Unit 1: Portfolio - worth 60% of your final grade, a big folder of work produced in Yr10 and 11

Unit 2: Exam (10 hours) - worth 40% of your final grade, completed in Yr11

You will begin by studying the formal elements of design through written and practical tasks. These are the building blocks of creative work and include: colour, line, layout, typography, composition etc. 

You will analyse graphic design and gain an understanding of how artists and designers use visual language to convey information, ideas, and meaning.

You will complete practical and written work using a range of materials and techniques, which will include: drawing, printmaking, advertising, branding, package design and typography.

As your skills and knowledge of graphic communication develop, you will work to a given brief: researching, experimenting, recording and presenting a final outcome.

Possible careers

Graphic design • Theatre designer • Animator • Video game designer • Illustrator • Museum curator • Photographer • Architecture • Product design • Fashion design • Advertising • Publishing • Interior design • Fashion and media journalism • Retail design • Exhibition design • Artist • Visual media • Teaching

If you have any questions about GCSE Art & Design: Graphic Communication, please contact Ms Reason, Director of Art.