Everything you need to know about GCSE Art & Design
GCSE Art & Design is a challenging subject, but it does have a pass rate of around 78% in the UK. According to Ofqual, Art and Design remains the eighth most popular GCSE subject. If you're considering choosing it as one of your GCSEs, here's what you need to know.
Is GCSE Art & Design hard?
Art and Design is a complex subject compared to many other GCSEs as you're expected to produce a large body of work. This can be tough when you have a heavy workload for other subjects on your plate too. That said, if you genuinely love art, this GCSE is a stepping-stone to further courses and careers in Art and Design. Careers, for example, in Design, architecture, animation, textiles and advertising.
How is the GCSE marked?
Exam boards vary, but as an example, for the AQA and Edexcel Art and Design GCSE exam boards, you need to complete two main components: a portfolio and an externally set assignment.
1. Portfolio (60% of marks)
For this, you need to create a body of work that includes various pieces showcasing your skills, creativity, and development. You'll also need to show your work on different projects that explore various themes and techniques.
You will also need to document the process of creating a portfolio in a sketchbook to showcase your ideas, research, experiments, and reflections. This is to demonstrate your thought process and development.
2. Externally set assignment (40%)
Students are given a set of themes to choose from and then will have time to plan and create prep work. For the assignment, students create a final piece for a 10-hour exam over two days.
What will help me do well in this subject?
As with all practical subjects, consistent practice will always help. It helps if you make drawing a daily habit. Try experimenting with various materials and techniques, and research artists, themes and even art blogs to find your strengths.
If you aren't used to working at a steady pace, you should not wait until the last minute to create your portfolio and sketchbook, as you won't be able to cram all the work in on time.
What can help with your sketchbook is to take photos of your progress along the way to track your work and provide evidence of your development. This is important for the exam board to see in your portfolio.
You should also look at the work of various artists. Analyse what you like and how they use colour, form, and technique. Then, use this to write about your projects. Explain what you have learned and your reflection on your own work.
Who can help me with GCSE Art and Design?
Aside from books, galleries and museums, the following can all help you gain insight and inspiration.
YouTube is a fantastic resource for discovering more about artists and their techniques (see Draw with Jazza) and seeing how other students created their portfolios and sketchbooks.
Pinterest is another fantastic source for visual inspiration, with boards dedicated to art projects and techniques.
Instagram is best for following artists and art bloggers for inspiration, techniques, and tips.
Podcasts like Talk Art and Great Women Artists work on making art more engaging, accessible and inspiring.
An art tutor can also be helpful as they can tailor sessions to specific areas you want to improve.
Art tutors can teach techniques and methods that enhance your artistic skills and help you identify strengths and areas for improvement in your work.
One area many students find tutors help with is Portfolio support. Not only do they provide feedback, but they also assist students in organising and developing their portfolios and sketchbooks to ensure they meet exam board requirements.
For more information, see First Tutors: Arts & Crafts.
Whether you are looking for drawing lessons, painting classes or ideas to help with inspiration First Tutors: Arts & Crafts is designed to help you find tutors and teachers in your local area.