Art & Design
Overview
In Y7 and Y8 Art we focus on the ‘visual elements’. Students will learn a range of new techniques and process whilst exploring line, form, tone, colour, shape, space, pattern and texture. Students will also develop their knowledge of art history, and explore how artists and designers have used the visual elements to create works of art that have defined, changed, challenged and inspired society since pre-historic times.
Course Outline
KS3 art is taught to Y7 and Y8 students as a two year exploration of the visual elements. The 8 visual elements provide the basis for each of the 8 topics which are taught for around 9 weeks each. Students work in A4 sketchbooks but may also create larger works in response to the visual elements. KS3 homeworks are set once a term and are designed to allow students to create ambitious responses to the set topics over several weeks.
Assessment
KS3 students are levelled according to the National Curriculum standards.
Special Entry Requirements
Enthusiasm, positivity and an open and adventurous mind.
Career Opportunities
The Creative Sector is the fastest growing job sector in the UK. Jobs include Animator, App Designer, Architect, Art Director, Teacher, Art Therapist, Arts Journalist, Community Arts Worker, Fashion Designer, Fine Artist, Furniture Designer, Games Designer, Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Interior Designer, Jewellery Designer, Museum or Gallery Curator, Photographer, Advertising, Typographer, Production Designer, Set Designer, Film-maker, Commercial Artist, Free-lance Artist, Cultural Events Organiser, Sculptor, Textile Designer and Web Design.
Teaching Methods
Each fortnight you will be timetabled for 2 periods of 60 minutes each.
How is the course graded
Skill Requirements
GCSE students are encouraged to work over an extended period of time on the development of their projects. This process is broken down into easily understood targets by the Art teacher and requires a mature and independent approach from the student in order to be successful.
Students should always have a set of personal targets to complete – these targets are likely to be detailed on the student’s Progress Log and found on the task lists in their sketchbook.
How can you help?
Ask your son/daughter about their artwork and their ideas. Take them to galleries and to places where they can gather photographs for their work. Provide them with materials and tools, and try to sort out a space in the house for them to study. Finally, ask to see their Progress Logs – it’s all there!
Extra-curricular Support
The Art Department opens its doors daily to students to come and work at break, lunchtime and after school on Tuesdays & Thursdays. We regularly arrange Saturday Workshops, sometimes inviting specialist artists to deliver a master class. There are many other opportunities to be involved more in Art such as mural painting, Rock Challenge set design and Saatchi Online (www.saatchionline.com/shtc)