A2

A2 Level Photography

Candidates build on the knowledge gained through the AS course and complete the following units:

Unit 4: Specialist Project (30%)

This unit constitutes one major project that explores the subject title in much greater detail. Emphasis is given to the ‘finished prints’ in terms of their development, finer control of the processes involved and in their appropriate display at the ‘end-of-year show’.

Unit 5: Personal Study (30%)

Essentially this follows the same format as unit 2, but focusing on ‘in-depth’ analysis, placing the specific topic in a wider context and the discovery of more visual & critical connections with the subject matter. Pupils also conduct an appropriate element of primary research. The work is presented in both a workbook format & an accompanying illustrated essay of 5000 words.

Unit 6: Controlled Test (40%)

A response to a question set by OCR (exam board). This constitutes extensive exploration of ideas, critical analysis of camera techniques & creative control of darkroom processes contained within a sketchbook. This culminates in an exam period spanning 15 hours, where the pupils produce a series of large scale prints (12in by 16in).

Moderator's Report:

"The presentation of the work for the A2 Moderation was outstanding and much time had gone into the exhibiting of this work for the moderation sample.

Coursework (Unit 5): Candidates had clearly benefited from a course that encouraged individual direction and work from first-hand sources. The Assessment Objectives had been met evenly and to a very high level in both Fine Art and Photography. No adjustments were made to this unit.

Controlled Test (Unit 6): The work completed by candidates for this unit was very individual and represented a culmination of the students' learning throughout their course. Preparatory work was well informed with relevant connections being made with artists/photographers. Final outcomes were fully resolved and there was evidence of mature and sustained realisations."