Summary
This subject develops students' comprehension ability, and problem solving and creative thinking skills are developed through the analysis and solution of both 2 and 3-dimensional graphics. Graphics and design are communicated using freehand sketching skills, traditional draughting equipment and CAD.
Why Study Design and Communications Graphics
- DCG helps to further students’ cognitive and practical skills with modules like graphic communication, problem solving, spatial visualisation, design capabilities, computer graphics and much more.
What kind of student would DCG suit?
- Students who have taken Graphics to Junior Cert level.
- Students who have a keen interest in further studies in practical areas of engineering and construction, or in apprenticeships which include the study of technical drawings.
Recommendations/Tips
- It is an advantage to have studied Graphics at Junior Cert. level.
- Free-hand sketching is a main component of the core topics. Therefore, Junior Cert Art or Wood Technology would serve as an advantage in this area.
- A basic knowledge of ICT skills is also beneficial.
- Students must also appreciate that work completed must conform to a high standard of neatness and draftsmanship.
Subject Group: Artistic
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.
Career Sectors
This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors:
Grades Awarded
Explore Marks Distribution for all Subjects:
Course Overview
The Design and Communication Graphics course makes a unique contribution to students' cognitive and practical skills development. These skills include graphicacy/graphic communication, creative problem solving, spatial abilities/visualisation, design capabilities, computer graphics and CAD modelling
There is a great emphasis in the Leaving Certificate course on comprehension, analysis and problem solving. In simple terms, you must be able to understand what has to be done, analyse how you are going to approach it and then proceed to solve the problem.
Although it is not an essential subject for either architecture or engineering, it is regarded as a useful subject if you are thinking of a technical course.
Course Content
The course is comprised of two parts; Core areas of study and Optional Areas of Study. You will be required to study the core and two of the optional areas listed below:
Part One – Core Areas of Study
Plane and Descriptive Geometry
- Project Systems
- Plane Geometry
- Conic Sections
- Descriptive Geometry of Lines and Planes
- Intersection and Development of Surfaces
Communication of Design and Computer Graphics
- Graphics in Design and Communication
- Communication of Design
- Freehand Drawing
- Information and Communication Technologies
Part 2 – Optional Areas of Study
You will be required to study two of the optional areas listed below:
Applied Graphics
- Dynamic Mechanism
- Structural Forms
- Geological Geometry
- Surface Geometry
- Assemblies
Exam Structure
| Design & Comm Graphics | Higher | Ordinary |
| Written Paper | 1 Paper - 60% of Marks | 1 Paper - 60% of Marks |
| Project | 1 Paper - 40% of Marks | 1 Paper - 40% of Marks |
One Terminal Exam Paper: 60%
Student Assignment: 40%
Terminal Exam: 3 hours duration.
Student Assignment Emphasis on:
1. Elements of design
2. Communication graphics
3. Use of ICT in design
Different theme for Higher and Ordinary level
May take the form of:
-A design investigation and modification
-A design investigation and concept design
Career Possibilities
Design and Communication Graphics opens up a wide range of career paths, especially in fields where technical drawing, design, and spatial problem-solving are key. The skills are transferable to many technical and creative industries.
DCG is a core element of many third level options including: Engineering, Product Design, Construction and Architecture. Knowledge of this subject will greatly enhance a student's ability in any third level engineering-based programme.
Other relevant career areas where this subject is useful include:aircraft technician, carpentry & joinery, engineering technician, graphics, animation and game design, toolmaker.
3rd Level Requirements
Required for 3rd Level?
This subject doesn't appear to be an entry requirement currently for any CAO courses. However, this can change, so it is essential that you check entry requirements with college websites for any courses you are applying for. Click on the link below to view courses that may require this subject for entry.
This subject is not an essential requirement for any courses in the CAO system.
Source: Qualifax
