Three Dimensional Design A-Level (AQA)

Course Overview

Students will be introduced to a variety of experiences that explore a range of three-dimensional media, processes and techniques.  They will be made aware of both traditional and new media. Students will explore the use of drawing for different purposes, using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales. Students may use sketchbooks/workbooks/journals to underpin their work, where appropriate.  They 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.  This will be integral to the investigating and making process.  Students’ responses to these examples will be shown through practical and critical activities that demonstrate their understanding of different styles, genres and traditions.

The 3D Design course introduces you to a variety of experiences, processes and techniques including: 

  • Designing in a range of media including CAD (Computer Aided Design)

  • Research into designers and artists

  • Communication skills

  • Modelling in a range of resistant and compliant materials


Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of three-dimensional design, such as those listed below.  They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas:

  • Ceramics

  • Sculpture

  • Exhibition design

  • Design for theatre, television and film

  • Interior design

  • Product design

  • Environmental and architectural design

  • Jewellery/body ornament

  • 3D digital design

Students will be expected to demonstrate skills, in the context of their chosen area(s) of three-dimensional design.  They will be required to demonstrate skills in all of the following:

  • appreciation of solid, void, form, shape, texture, colour, decoration, surface treatment, scale, proportion, structure, rhythm and movement

  • awareness of intended audience or purpose for their chosen area(s) of three-dimensional design

  • awareness of the relationship between three-dimensional design and urban, rural or other settings

  • appreciation of the relationship of form and function and, where applicable, the ability to respond to a concept, work to a brief, theme or topic, or answer a need in the chosen area(s) of three-dimensional design

  • the safe use of a variety of appropriate tools and equipment

  • understanding of working methods, such as model-making, constructing and assembling

Lessons are practical, developing drawing, designinig and making skills across a broad range of media and materials (wood, plastic, metal, styrofoam, PMC silver, card, etc.)

CAD and CAM skills are developed including use of the laser cutter.

Inspiration from artists/designers past and present is drawn on to help inspire and produce ideas. 

Students are encouraged to be creative and to follow their own path with guidance, focussing on a particular area which interests them. 

Trips to London, including the Design Museum, provide inspiration, whilst input from professional designers/architects etc relate the course to future career choices. 

Assessment:

Component 1: Personal Investigation - No time limit, 96 marks, 60% of A level

Component 2: Response to an externally set assignment - Preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time, 96 marks, 40% of A level

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.

 

3D Design is a useful A level for degrees or future careers in Architecture, Interior Design, Product Design, Engineering, Graphic Design, TV/Theatre/Prop design, Packaging Design, Marketing and Advertising, Jewellery Design and many more.

You should be on track to achieve a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4 - 9, including a grade 5 in either 3D Design (Graphics or Product), Engineering or Art. 

RESPECT