Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College  

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Art & Design (Optional)

Exam Board: AQA Art and Design – Photography Length of Course: 2 Years Why study this course? Photography and digital manipulation is fast becoming one of the highest earning industries worldwide. Demand for high quality imagery is becoming more apparent in what is now the digital age. During the two year course, GCSE Photography will give you the opportunity to explore a range of techniques and processes whilst developing independent ideas. Both digital and manual manipulation processes will be explored including darkroom Photography and Photoshop as well as developing traditional skills. GCSE

Unit title and description

Assessment method and weighting

Unit 1 This consists of a portfolio of personalised coursework, which is produced throughout your lessons in Year 10 and 11.

All coursework is assessed internally by your teacher and by an AQA external moderator. This part of the course equates to 60% of the final grade.

Unit 2 Is the AQA externally set assignment which is produced over 10 hours following a period of preparation time.

All examination work is assessed and marked internally. This externally set assignment is equal to 40% of the final grade. Final grades will be determined following the AQA moderation in May during Year 11.

Other Information: Pupils considering GCSE Photography should have an interest in Art and Design. Although owning a camera and prior skills are desired, neither is compulsory. Pupils cannot choose to study both Art and Photography at GCSE so decisions must be made based on conversations with Art teachers, tutors and parents. Opportunities for Progression: Fashion Photographer, Cinema Photographer, Wildlife Photographer, Events Photographer, Graphic Designer, Image manipulation, Medical Illustration, Photojournalism, Media & Marketing, Promotion and Advertising, Fine Art/Conceptual photographer Contact Details: Mr D Valentine - Curriculum Leader (dvalentine@sandhigh.cheshire.sch.uk)