PHOTOGRAPHY (PEARSON)

GCSE Course Outline

"The camera is my tool. Through it I give a reason to everything around me." - Andre Kertesz

What is Photography?

The GCSE Photography course requires the development of practical skills, both technical and aesthetic. Students are both practitioners and critics, developing the analytical skills and understanding of Photography in a range of contexts. There is a focus on photography practice and the integration of theory, knowledge and understanding to reach a personal response to project briefs.

The coursework unit is a combination of photography research, supporting studies and developmental work leading to one or more outcomes in a variety of resolutions. All four assessment objectives must be covered within the coursework component.

Students create a journal which contains evidence of idea development, reference to the work of others, showing understanding of meanings, contexts and their decision making skills, using an appropriate visual and written form.

First-hand experience and critical awareness of photography are encouraged via visits.

What Skills Will Students Develop When Studying GCSE Photography?

• Students will develop and explore creative and imaginative ideas and develop their practical and technical skills using cameras and digital editing software to communicate and express ideas, feelings and meanings in digital photography.
• Students will learn how to manipulate light, viewpoints, composition, and depth of field in photography to enhance creative outcomes.
• How to manipulate a photograph, using digital technology, computers (Photoshop) scanners and photocopiers.
• All students will have to submit evidence of using drawing to support the development process in both Component 1 and Component 2.
• All students will have to use written annotation and appropriate specialist terminology to record their ideas, observations, insights and independent judgements.
• Students will develop investigative, analytical, experimental and interpretative capabilities, aesthetic understanding and critical skills. Enhancing their knowledge and understanding of photography in contemporary societies and in other times and cultures.
• In Component 2 (Preparatory work plus an 10 hour timed exam), you will explore a theme set by the exam board

PHOTOGRAPHY (PEARSON) GCSE Specification
Component 1 Personal Portfolio Internally set and marked, externally moderated. 60% of GCSE Exam Final assessment is in May/June	Personal Portfolio Students create a personal portfolio of work based on a given theme that demonstrates knowledge, understanding and skills. Students must work within the following titles: Photography. Students undertaking the above title must create work associated with the area of study for that title. Allows students opportunities to develop and explore ideas, research primary and contextual sources. Experiment with media, materials, techniques and processes Develop critical analysis skills and assimilate ideas. Present personal response(s) to theme(s) set by the centre.
Component 2 Externally set, internally marked and externally moderated. 10 hour exam 40% of GCSE Exam Final assessment is in May/June	Externally Set Assignment Externally set broad-based thematic starting point released in January. A centre-devised preparatory study period followed by a 10-hour sustained focus period in which students create personal response(s). Students' work must comprise: - Preparatory studies - Personal response(s). Internally assessed and externally moderated.

Structure of the Course
This course will be taught for 3x1 hour lessons per week. Homework will be set weekly and deadlines must be adhered to. Research and first-hand experience of works of photography is essential.

Core textbook

'Image Makers - Image Takers' - Anne Celine Jaeger
ISBN-10: 0500288925

Further Reading

'Photography - The Key Concepts' - David Bate
ISBN-10: 1350107956

Introductory summer work
Visit a photography exhibition and choose a photograph, write a short review expressing your opinions about the photograph. Make a series of 20 plus photographs taking inspiration from the image.