A-level Art 2
Subject Overview:
A-level students attend five Art lessons each week, allowing them ample time to develop their skills, experiment with different techniques, and work on personal projects under the gudiance of experience teachers.
Students in the sixth form receive one set Art homework assignment each week. However, they are also encouraged to set aside additional time outside of scheduled lessons for independent study and further exploration of their art projects. This additional practice is essential for refining their skills, developing personal ideas and deepening their understanding of art techniques and concepts.
A-level students will follow the OCR Fine Art course, which emphasizes creative exploration, skill development, and critical analysis. Through this course, students will engage with various media techniques, studying both historical and contemporary artists to inspire and inform their work. The curriculum encourages individual expression and in-depth exploration, preparing students for further study or careers in art-related fields.
A-level students receive sketchbooks from the school for their coursework. Additionally, students have the option to purchase an Art pack for independent work at home, though this is not a requirement, as all necessary equipment is available for use on site. This setup supports students’ flexibility in choosing how and where they complete their projects.
Curriculum:
Mini project based on Close Ups/Food and Drink/Growth and Decay to introduce new skills and techniques. This is adapted to extend students previous experience in Art.
Introduction to structure of Art A level focusing on assessment criteria, sketchbook marking & guidance and learning to analyse artwork.
The personal investigation project, which is practical by nature, leads to a final piece(s) and is supported by a compulsory written element that links the work of other artists to the project.
In this component, you are in charge and with our support you will produce a portfolio of work that reflects your strengths and interests. You will be encouraged to work in a variety of ways, exploring fully the subject you have chosen.
By the end of this unit, pupils will have produced:
- Sketchbook x 1
- Information boards x 3
- Final pieces x 1
- Written essay (1000-3000 words) x 1
Continue to work on Personal Investigation. Pupils are provided with the time to carry out a number of experimentations and create a variety of pieces so that only the best pieces are submitted for moderation.
Similar to the personal investigation, but working from a series starting points set by OCR, you will produce a portfolio of work that leads to a final piece(s), produced in an exam. This work will be personal to you and can be produced using techniques and materials that you have chosen. Students, by this stage, are becoming independent learners, who work alongside the teachers in the department to realise their ambitions and are given support with their chosen progression routes. Pupils will carry out a 15-hour practical examination.
Assessments:
Students begin their A-Level Art coursework in the spring term of Year 12, contributing to 60% of their final grade. This coursework continues through to the spring term of Year 13, culminating in a two-day mock exam that mirrors the final exam experience. This setup allows students to practice working under exam conditions, showcasing their completed coursework and preparing for the structure of their final assessment.
After completing their coursework, students receive a final assignment, which they complete in a two-day exam during the summer term of Year 13.
