A Level 3D Design/Ceramics
What is it about at sixth form level?
This course puts the emphasis placed upon functional and utilitarian considerations as compared to three- dimensional outcomes produced in other disciplines, such as sculpture in Fine Art, where the intentions might be centred upon the aesthetic qualities of expressive form. You will look at functional ceramics and product design, but aspects of craft may also be included, such as items that are concerned with functionality and manual skills as well as aesthetic qualities. Possible areas of study include: ceramics, sculpture and product design.
Why study it and what skills does it develop?
An A level in Ceramics is an excellent basis on which to apply to study the subject further at art college or university as, along with the skills, it will provide you with the portfolio you will need for your application. It is also very useful if you wish to work or study in areas relating to design, fashion and architecture. The course will develop your skills in modelling and visualisation and these have value far beyond courses such as those mentioned already.
What prior knowledge and skills are required?
A background in art such as a GCSE or IGCSE is preferred.
How is the course assessed?
A level
The A level is a two-year course and all assessment takes place at the end of the second year. There are two components. Component 1 is your personal investigation, which is the coursework component. Component 2 is the externally set assignment. You will be required to develop independently a personal response to one of a varied range of stimuli within specified time constraints. The assignment consists of a series of visual (including moving image) and written stimuli set by the exam board. You will develop your response over a preparatory study period. Following the preparatory study period, learners will be allocated a period of 15 hours sustained focus study to realise their response unaided and under supervised conditions. Component 1 is worth 60% of the A level and Component 2 is worth 40% of the A level.
Reading
The Potter’s Manual
By K. Clark
Published by Chartwell Books Inc., ISBN 9978-0890096741
Tableware in Clay: From Studio and Workshop
By K. A. Wood
Published by Crowood, ISBN 978-1861261984
Ceramic Review Magazine
Bi-monthly subscription
Exam Board and Specification Codes
WJEC Art and Design A651QSL
Greg Ioannou
Head of Department
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