Graphics is recognised as the underpinning language of the technology disciplines and is transferable across a wide range of subjects such as mathematics, science and art. Students will use a variety of media to communicate their ideas and designs through this unique language. Throughout the course, students will explore the geometric world to gain an appreciation of the importance of graphics in the world around them. They will develop cognitive and practical skills such as graphical ommunication, spatial visualisation, creative problem-solving, design capabilities and modelling, both physically and through the use of computer-aided design.
The study of Graphics develops a student's creativity, spatial ability, and capacity to reason and communicate ideas through engagement with abstract and applied geometric problem-solving activities.
The course consists of three strands:
2D Graphics: In this strand, you will engage with, understand and apply the fundamental concepts and principles of 2D constructions, 2D shapes and projection systems. Throughout your studies, you will gain an appreciation of the application of 2D graphics to problem solving and develop an understanding of the role of 2D graphics in the creation of 3D objects and representations.
3D Graphics: In this strand, you will engage with, understand and use the fundamental concepts and principles underpinning 3D objects, modelling systems and graphical conventions. This strand is of specific importance in developing each student’s ability in visual imagery and representation. You should, as a result, be able to accurately represent objects in three dimensions and apply these skills to problem solving.
Applied Graphics: In this strand, you will draw on the knowledge, principles and techniques developed through the 2D Graphics and 3D Graphics strands to create and communicate solutions and information graphically. You should be encouraged to investigate their physical environment and to apply the principles of 2D Graphics and 3D Graphics to the solution of a variety of problems. You should be able to select the most appropriate methods to communicate their solutions to solve these problems, both in terms of their selection of graphical media and the mechanism for their utilisation.
| Number of hours over 3 years | Final Exam | Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs) | Assessments Task |
| 200 hrs minimum |
One 2-hour paper Taken at Common level Worth 70% of overall grade
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Two CBAs to be taken over 2nd & 3rd year CBA 1- Communicating through Sketching
CBA 2- Graphical Presentation Skills |
Students complete a project set by the SEC after CBA 2 in 3rd Year. Worth 30% of overall grade
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These subjects involve developing creativity and the appreciation of the work of others. This involves learning the methods and techniques of the subject and producing your own work using these skills.
This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: