Course Intro

As the name suggests graphic communication is the process of creating, producing and distributing resources, using words and images as well as a variety of different mediums to express data, concepts or emotions. This is typically from the original idea (design, layout and typography) through to reproduction, finishing and distribution of two or three-dimensional products. The course covers the use of technical graphics in education, construction, industry and commerce and offers students the opportunity to communicate in what is effectively an international language.

This course involves:

• Technical drawing (2-D & 3-D)
• Freehand sketching
• Rendering (pencil, marker & pastel)
• Computer aided drawing
• 3-D modeling
• Desktop publishing
• Knowledge & Interpretation
• Colour theory, BSI symbols
• Hardware & Software

Recommended Entry

Students would normally be expected to have attained one of the following:

For S4 Entry

• Pass the S3 Graphic Communication course

For S5/6 Entry (National 5 ONLY)

• Pass the National 4 course
• Pass the National 5 course with a grade “C”

Mandatory Units: National 4 & 5

• 2-D Graphic Communication
• 3-D & Pictorial Graphic Communication
• Added Value Unit: Graphic Communication Assignment

Units are no longer compulsory at National 5 level however students studying National 5 will still have to sit an external exam & complete the  assignment.

National 4 pupils must complete all three units to gain an overall National 4 course award.

Next steps

After successfully completing the course students will be able to undertake:

• Graphic Communication (Higher)
• Design & Manufacture (National 4 & National 5)

Skills & Knowledge

• Producing preliminary, production & presentation graphics in familiar contexts
• Spatial awareness in familiar 2D, 3D & pictorial situations
• Applying design skills, including creativity, when developing solutions to design tasks
• Using standard graphic communication equipment, software & materials effectively
• Knowledge of the impact of graphic communication technologies in our environment and society
• Knowledge of computer-aider graphics techniques
• Knowledge of colour, illustration and presentation techniques.

Careers & Further Study

Today’s modern day technological society is developing and changing at an almost unbelievable rate.

Studying Graphic Communication could lead to a career in:

• Architecture
• Graphic Design
• Civil Engineering
• Product Design
• Mechanical Engineering
• Modern Apprenticeship
• CAD Technician