In S4 and for some S5/6 the course for all levels has 2 distinct units (components), that pupils must complete to gain an overall award. At National 4 and 5 there is an additional unit or Course Assessment (Added Value) that extends the learning experience and enables achievement or success at the higher level.
- Expressive Project/Folio with Critical Activity
Practical work exploring a theme (still-life, portraiture, landscape or ‘built-environment’) within drawing, painting perhaps 3-D media or printmaking skills is undertaken in this unit. Experience of technology and how it can be creatively used to develop ideas along with an understanding and appreciation of artists’ working practices is also included.
- Design Project/Folio with Critical Activity
Practical work again exploring a theme within a Design Area like Product Design (Chair or Lighting), Jewellery Design or Textile Design is the experience within this unit. Following the Design Process – Research & Investigation and Development, pupils will experiment with and develop a range of 2D and/or 3D media handling skill to develop their design proposals. Experience of technology and how it can be creatively used will be incorporated along with an understanding and appreciation of designers’ working practices is also included.
- Added Value/Course Assessment (Practical Activity)
Pupils will draw on, extend and apply the skills they have learned during the course. In the project or folio, pupils will produce finished pieces of Expressive and Design Work (outcomes).
National 3, 4 & 5 course assessment will be internally marked (PGHS) and externally verified (SQA). Both National 5 & Higher (N6) awards include a Question Paper (written exam) as part of course assessment. The question paper adds value by requiring integration and application of knowledge and skills from across the units.
During the pandemic the school has followed and Alternative Certification Model, pupil work has been marked and verified both internally (PGHS) and externally (across Inverclyde Schools). Assessments in class/school have replaced Exams and department staff have worked hard to ensure the coursework and evidence were appropriate in order to robustly justify estimates and grades for pupils involved in National Certification or Award.
National 3 Art and Design – SQA
National 4 Art and Design – Course overview and resources – SQA
National 5 Art and Design – Course overview and resources – SQA
