This unit of study aims to create learning opportunities that explore the creative potential in each and every student through exposure to visual and theoretical challenges. Students learn how to analyse and interpret the ideas and meanings communicated through visual language. Through the provision of a safe learning environment, students are encouraged to creatively explore the world of photography. Focus for the unit is on individual and personalised expression through visual image making using both analogue and digital technology. An important part of assessment for this unit is the documentation and recording of the artistic process which includes reflective practices.
Students undertake a number of creative tasks, each of a three week duration. The course is designed to challenge students in their understanding of how to create visual images that have a high degree of visual literacy. Students undertake research tasks to complement their own understanding of how to communicate ideas in a Photograph.
Within each task, students are challenged to explore the way that other Photographers have interpreted similar themes. Tasks may vary from year to year, but the following are examples of topics explored recently:
Creating visual images using the Darkroom process and a range of techniques
Exploring Culture through a visual image
Appropriating and reinventing an image or artwork
Creating images from Inside looking Out.
All tasks are undertaken with the assumption that students have little experience working with Photoshop. All skills are taught and acquired throughout the course, with no expectation of prior knowledge of Photography or Photoshop. Students are encouraged to share the images that they create through exhibition of works in the Guild Gallery and in classroom discussions and presentations.
Extension Unit: Several extension exercises are offered to students throughout the course, designed for those who wish to challenge themselves in moving beyond the prescriptive structure. Students are encouraged to undertake further independent study during the course to extend their skills and knowledge in Photography.
Assessment will take three forms:
Practical work will be assessed via rubrics. The work will be both self-assessed by the individual students and assessed by the teacher. Developmental and finished artworks will be included in the assessment of practical work.
Research: This will include individual research into selected art periods and styles, and homework related to art history lessons.
Examination: There will be an end of semester exam that will be based on the students’ individual research, on their understanding of the artworks of the relevant artists and period, and on their understanding of art terminology.