Art Photography
Lead: Mr Lordan
Email: slordan1.310@parkhighstanmore.org.uk
Subject overview
A Level Photography introduces students t o a variety of experiences that explore a range of photographic media, techniques, and processes. There is an initial foundation term in the Autumn of Year 12, followed by the Personal Investigation unit supported by written material in Year 12 and into Year 13. Students will produce practical and critical/contextual work in one or more areas of study, for example, portraiture, landscape photography, still life photography, documentary photography, photojournalism, fashion photography, experimental imagery, multimedia, photographic installation and moving image (video, film, animation).Students will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. Each student must include in their portfolio:
- a selection of thoughtfully presented work that demonstrates the breadth and depth of the course of study.
- at least one extended collection of work or project, based on an idea, concept, theme or issue.
This should demonstrate the student’s ability to sustain work from an initial starting point to a realisation. It should include evidence of their ability to research and develop ideas and link their work in a meaningful way to relevant critical/contextual materials. Students also have the opportunity to be enrolled in the Royal Academy attRAct programme. In Year 13 students will be given their externally set assignment.
“quote” - Student
Exam Board: AQA
Course Specification: 7206
Qualification obtained: AQA Advanced GCE in Art and Design Photography
Entry requirements:
Students must achieve at least six 9-4 grades including English Language and Mathematics at GCSE.
If studied Grade 5 in Art or portfolio/interview
What you will study
There are 2 components to A Level Photography:
Component 1:
The Personal Investigation. This is a practical investigation supported by written material. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student’s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation. The investigation must show clear development from initial intentions to the final outcome or outcomes. It must include evidence of the student’s ability to research and develop ideas and relate their work in meaningful ways to relevant critical/contextual materials. The investigation must be informed by an aspect of contemporary or past practice of artists, photographers, designers, or craftspeople.
Component 2:
The Externally Set Assignment question will consist of a choice of eight questions to be used as starting points. Students are required to select one. Students will be provided with examination papers on 1 February, or as soon as possible after that date.
Assessment
Assessment percentage:
40% Exam
60% Coursework
| Unit Code | Unit Title | Assessment | Weight |
| 01 | Personal Investigation | Non-exam assessment: 96 marks non-exam assessment (NEA) set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA during a visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June | 60% |
| 02 | Externally Set Assignment | Preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time. Non-exam assessment (NEA) set by AQA, marked by the centre and moderated by AQA during a visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June. | 40% |
Progression routes
Students can go on to university and study at degree level or take higher education in art and design, then aim to join the world of architecture, advertising, graphics design, illustration, typography, painting, sculpture, textile design, fashion design, interior design, photography, film and television, animation, theatre design, costume design and set design.
Additional Information
Course specific equipment:
- Camera/Digital Camera/ access to digital camera
- Digital editing software
- Several A4 & A3 sketch books
- White gel pens
Essential Reading Material:
Masters of Photography ISBN 184760596
Recommended resources:
https://thephotographersgallery.org.uk/
https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
https://expertphotography.com/most-famous-photographers/
Enrichment:
There are organised trips to galleries throughout the A level course. Gallery/museum entry is free.
Students are encouraged to independently visit exhibitions and galleries. Students are expected to continually record their experiences.