Three-Dimensional Design GCSE

Three-Dimensional Design GCSE

Course Length

One or two years.

The course

GCSE Three-dimensional Design is concerned with the modelling or making of Ceramics and sculptural pieces. Students should engage with appropriate processes, materials and construction techniques, using maquettes, models and working drawings to help take their initial ideas through to realisation. Students will also understand that Three-dimensional Design practitioners may work within a small team environment or work as freelance practitioners.

All knowledge, understanding and skills will be assessed in both components: 1. the use of formal elements and visual communication through a variety of approaches 2. the use of observational skill to record from sources and communicate ideas 3. the elements of three-dimensional design such as light, space, form, scale and proportion 4. the effects and creative potential of combining and manipulating different two-dimensional and three-dimensional materials and media 5. the use of digital and/or non-digital applications.

Drawing and other materials processes Students of Three-dimensional Design need to demonstrate how a three-dimensional world can be translated into a two-dimensional. It is important to develop drawing skills to express a range of emotions, using different tools, materials and techniques. The formal elements should also be applied, especially those such as texture, colour and light.

What skills do I need?

Students entering this course should ideally have achieved a general educational level equivalent to National Curriculum Level 3. The course will suit you if you are creative, enthusiastic and imaginative and want to communicate your ideas in 3D. You should enjoy learning how to use different processes to develop your visual skills, and be willing to experiment and take risks with your ideas.

How is the course assessed?

The coursework is divided into two units. Unit 1 (Personal Portfolio in Art and Design) is the coursework you complete over the course of the year. It is completed and assessed – usually before the end of May – followed by a visit by an external assessor who moderates the marks. The assessment takes the form of a small exhibition in the art department. It amounts to approximately 45 hours of supervised activity and is worth 60% of the marks. For Unit 2 (Externally Set Assignment), an exam is set early in the Summer term. This work is completed by May. It is amounts to approximately 30 hours of supervised activity including ten hours of sustained focus and is worth 40% of the total.

Exam Board and Specification Code

Edexcel 1TD0

Greg Ioannou
Head of Department