Teacher:
Miss Eyvor Irvine
Aims:
The aims of Graphic Communication courses are to enable learners to develop:
- skills in graphic communication techniques, including the use of equipment, graphics materials and software
- the ability to extend and apply knowledge and understanding of graphic communication standards, protocols and conventions
- an understanding of the impact of graphic communication technologies on our environment and society
Who is Graphic Communication for?
This course is a broad-based qualification, suitable for learners with an interest in both digital and paper-based graphic communication. It is learner-centred, includes practical and experiential learning opportunities and is suitable for those wanting to progress onto higher levels of study or a related career.
Learning Experiences:
Graphic Communication provides progression mainly in and from the craft, design, engineering and graphics Curriculum for Excellence experiences and outcomes.
Courses are practical, exploratory and experiential in nature. Learners will work in a creative environment and be encouraged to use imagination, creativity and logical thinking to develop awareness of graphic communication as an international language and understanding of how graphic communication technologies impact on society and the environment.
Learners will initiate, develop and communicate ideas graphically, and develop spatial awareness and visual literacy through graphic experiences. They will interpret the graphic communications of others, and use graphic communication equipment, software and materials to produce work of their own.
The course develops skills in 2D and 3D and pictorial graphic communication. Learners will develop ability to use these skills to produce graphics that transmit information and that provide relevant visual impact.
2D graphic communication
Learners develop creativity and skills within a 2D graphic communication context. They initiate, develop and communicate ideas using graphic techniques in straightforward and familiar contexts, as well as in some less familiar or new contexts. Candidates also develop 2D graphic spatial awareness.
3D and pictorial graphic communication
Candidates develop creativity and skills within a 3D and pictorial graphic communication context. They initiate, develop and communicate ideas using graphic techniques in straightforward and familiar contexts, as well as in some less familiar or new contexts. Candidates also develop 3D graphic spatial awareness.
What can you gain from choosing this subject?
Graphic Communication courses provide opportunities for learners to gain skills in reading, interpreting and creating graphic communications. This will include using knowledge of sketching, drawing, colour and presentation techniques, making choices, using equipment, software and materials to create graphics and evaluating and improving work where appropriate. Knowledge and skills in Computer Aided Graphics and Drawing will be developed and skills for interpreting graphic information will be practiced.
The course also provides opportunities to build self-confidence and enhance skills in numeracy, ICT, planning and organising work tasks, and in working independently and in collaboration with others. Learners develop skills in critical thinking, decision making and communication.
How will you be assessed?
In S3 and in preparation for course assessments in S4:
- self- and peer-assessment, short assignments, tests.
In S4:
N4 (SCQF Level 4)
To pass the N4 qualification pupils must pass two coursework units and an assignment.
- 2D Graphic Communication (9 SCQF points)
- 3D and Pictorial Graphic Communication (9 SCQF 9 points)
- Graphic Communication Assignment (6 SCQF points).
Freestanding Units (SCQF level 5)
Two free standing units, which do not contribute to achievement of a National Course, are available.
- 2D Graphic Communication (9 SCQF points)
- 3D and Pictorial Graphic Communication (9 SCQF points)
N5 (SCQF Level 5)
The N5 course consists of 24 SCQF points including time for preparation for course assessment. The N5 course is graded A-D. The course assessment has two components:
- 2 hour Question Paper – 80 marks
- 8 hour Assignment – 40 marks
Careers:
Progression in this course would be to Higher Graphic Communication or other related SQA Qualifications. It would be useful for employment or training courses in a related discipline, for example design, engineering, marketing, architecture or surveying.
