The Cambridge International AS and A Level Art & Design (9479)

The Cambridge International AS and A Level Art & Design (9479) syllabus is designed to encourage students to develop their creative and critical thinking skills through practical work in various areas of art and design. The course allows students to explore a range of media, techniques, and processes to communicate ideas and express themselves artistically. It is a flexible syllabus that gives students the freedom to focus on areas of interest while also developing a strong understanding of visual communication and historical art contexts.

Key Components of the Syllabus:

The syllabus is divided into four areas of study, allowing students to specialize in one or more of these areas. Each area offers opportunities for practical exploration, experimentation, and creative expression.

  1. Painting and Related Media

    • Includes drawing, painting, printmaking, and collage. Students work with various media such as watercolors, acrylics, oils, pastels, and mixed media to develop their technical skills and understanding of composition, form, and color.

  2. Textiles and Fashion

    • This area explores design and making in the fields of fashion, fabric design, embroidery, or mixed media. Students study traditional techniques as well as contemporary approaches to textiles and fashion design.

  3. Graphic Communication

    • Focuses on graphic design, typography, illustration, and digital media. Students will learn how to communicate visually for advertising, branding, and other forms of visual communication.

  4. Three-dimensional Design

    • Includes sculpture, ceramics, product design, and installation art. This area emphasizes the exploration of form, space, and materials, and students may work in materials such as clay, wood, metal, plaster, or found objects.

  5. Photography, Digital and Lens-based Media

    • Students can explore the world of photography, film, and digital art. This includes understanding composition, lighting, editing, and narrative in still or moving images.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Personal Expression and Ideas Development: Students will explore and communicate their own ideas and thoughts creatively through a variety of art and design techniques and media.
  • Visual Awareness and Aesthetic Sensitivity: They will develop a keen sense of observation and appreciation of the visual world, recognizing patterns, forms, and symbols in art and design.
  • Technical Skills and Media Mastery: Students will learn to work confidently with materials and media, improving their technical skills in both traditional and digital forms of art.
  • Contextual Understanding: They will develop an understanding of how historical, cultural, and social contexts influence art and design practices, enabling them to create works with depth and meaning.

Assessment Structure:

The Cambridge AS and A Level Art & Design assessments are practical-based. Students submit portfolios and finished pieces, which are assessed on the demonstration of creativity, skill, and understanding of art and design processes.

AS Level (Year 1):

  1. Component 1: Coursework (50%)
    • Students produce a portfolio of practical work in response to a chosen theme. The portfolio must show evidence of research, exploration, experimentation, and development of ideas.
  2. Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (50%)
    • Students complete a final artwork based on a question set by Cambridge International. They have a preparatory period to research, plan, and experiment, followed by a timed examination to produce the final piece.

A Level (Year 2):

  1. Component 3: Personal Investigation (50%)

    • Students develop a personal project based on an area of interest. This component includes both practical work and a written element, in which students explain and reflect on their artistic process, research, and influences.

  2. Component 4: Externally Set Assignment (50%)

    • Similar to the AS Level Component 2, but at a more advanced level. Students complete a final piece in response to a set question with a timed exam for the production of the final artwork.

Recommended Resources:

  • Art Books and Journals: Research books on art movements, techniques, and artist studies. Explore contemporary and historical art to understand context and practice.
  • Sketchbooks and Journals: Keep a regular sketchbook for visual ideas, planning, and reflection on your work. Document your process and development in a journal to reflect on your artistic journey.
  • Online Platforms: Use digital resources like YouTube tutorials, design software guides, and art communities to learn new techniques and stay updated with trends in art and design.

Tips for Success:

  • Experiment with Different Media: Try various techniques and media to discover your strengths and develop a wide range of skills. The more you explore, the more versatile your portfolio will become.
  • Research Art Movements and Artists: Study different art movements, such as Impressionism, Surrealism, Abstract Art, or Modern Design, to understand the context of your work and how your ideas might connect with past or current trends.
  • Develop a Personal Style: While experimentation is crucial, aim to develop a unique personal style that distinguishes your work. Let your projects reflect your interests, cultural background, or personal experiences.
  • Regular Practice: Keep up with daily or weekly practice, even outside of assigned projects. Use your sketchbook to brainstorm, explore different ideas, and refine your technique.
  • Reflect on Your Work: Always reflect critically on your creations, asking questions like: "What worked well?" "How can I improve?" and "What am I trying to communicate?"

Portfolio Guidance:

Building a strong portfolio is essential for success in the course. Include the following:

  • Exploration and Experimentation: Show your creative process by including sketches, studies, and experimentation with materials.
  • Development of Ideas: Clearly demonstrate how your initial ideas have evolved through research, reflection, and refinement.
  • Final Outcomes: Present a collection of finished works that communicate your artistic vision and technical ability.

This syllabus is excellent for students who want to pursue careers in fields such as fine arts, graphic design, architecture, fashion design, photography, or media production.

If you need help with a particular project or topic, feel free to ask!

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