Art A-Level

A Level Art and Design at Ballyclare High School encourages an adventurous and imaginative approach to this subject. Along with the more traditional skills such as drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture, students will also have the opportunity to experience a broad range of digital media including photography and film.

The Subject Criteria for Art requires that not only practical artistic skills should be developed in any course of study, but also that the study of art and its various contexts should form part of the student’s education. Students will therefore be required to demonstrate an understanding of past and contemporary art and design practice and be able to produce a personal response that embraces a range of ideas.

In the January of Year 13 pupils must decide whether they are taking the AS Level (1 year) or the A Level (2 years) as these are 2 separate qualifications.

Modules

Examining Board: Edexcel

AS Level   (1 year)

Unit 1: Coursework 50%

Unit 2: Exam 50%

A preparation period and 10hr exam

A Level     (2 years)

Unit 1: Coursework 60%

Unit 2: Exam 40%

A preparation period and 15hr exam

Teaching Methods

Owing to the nature of the subject which requires each student to make an individual response to the creative problems they encounter, teaching will be mostly on a one-to-one basis. Students will therefore be expected to plan and manage their own work schedule in conjunction with their class teacher.

Assessment Methods

This is a continuous process which takes place on a weekly basis through dialogue with the class teacher. The Coursework must be completed by a given date, usually May. A formal assessment of coursework takes place January / February, with externally set

exams in April / May of the final year; this is Year 13 for an AS Level and Year 14 for A Level. However, all pupils are required to set up an end of year exhibition.

“We have a vibrant, dynamic department which has received many awards and accolades for the work of our pupils.”