Art & Design - S3 & S4 Course Descriptor

In years three and four pupils may opt to undertake National Qualifications in art and design. This course offers pupils opportunities to build on skills learned in first and second year. Pupils have more time to develop and work on projects in greater detail and gain a better understanding of materials and techniques.

Problem solving, research skills and understanding the work of artists and designers are essential elements of the course.

Natural artistic ability is an advantage in art and design but the pupils' own enthusiasm for the subject is the most important factor in any course choice decision.

There are two art and design courses pupils can take in S3:

For pupils who have done really well in S2 and have reached level F in some areas, Intermediate 2 should be a good choice.

Intermediate 1 art and design is a good starting point for pupils who wish to do art and progress to Intermediate 2.

For pupils who enjoy art and design but find written work too demanding, Intermediate 1 is the course that will suit.

The elements for the courses are the same. The work for Intermediate 2 is more challenging and complex. There is a written exam in S4 for Intermediate 2 pupils. There is no written exam for Intermediate 1 pupils.

National Qualifications in art and design consists of three main elements:

Expressive activity unit

Expressing personal ideas through traditional art skills like drawing and painting. Pupils produce a wide range of work from portraits and still life to landscapes and figure compositions.

Design activity unit

Working on specific design problems from a given brief and producing appropriate solutions. This could take the form of C.D. covers, posters, packaging etc. 3D work like clay and lamp designs are also on offer for pupils. The department has computers which can also be used to help pupils develop new skills using technology. Digital photography is also used in S3 and S4.

Art and Design Studies unit

Research and comment on a personal level on the work of artists and designers. This takes the form of two illustrated studies which are done over the year

Assessment

The expressive and design activity is moderated by the Scottish Qualifications Authority and is based on the work produced in class over two years. The pupil essays are submitted to the SQA for assessment. Pupil work is constantly monitored throughout third year so pupils can achieve their maximum potential. Throughout S3 and S4 there are opportunities for pupils to move from Intermediate 1 up to Intermediate 2 if the standards for this course are achieved. There are no practical exams apart from a formal SQA written exam for Intermediate 2 pupils. This makes all pupil work done in class over the year very important.