How to Revise iGCSE Art & Design

Develop your iGCSE Art & Design skills with guidance on observational drawing, critical studies, and portfolio development.

Revision Strategy

Revising Art & Design is different from most academic subjects because it involves a significant practical or performance component alongside written analysis. Balance your revision between developing your practical skills and preparing for the written elements. Neglecting either side will limit your overall grade.

For the analytical and written components, build your subject-specific vocabulary. Being able to describe techniques, styles, and creative choices using precise terminology demonstrates your understanding and lifts your answers above generic description. Create a glossary of key terms for each area of study and use them consistently in your practice answers.

Study a range of practitioners, artists, or works beyond your set pieces. Having a broader frame of reference allows you to make more sophisticated comparisons and shows the examiner that you understand the wider context of the discipline. Keep concise notes on key influences, techniques, and the historical or cultural context of the works you study.

Study Tips for iGCSE Art & Design

✓ Keep a sketchbook with you at all times and draw regularly from observation. iGCSE Art portfolios are assessed on the quality of observational drawing and visual research.
✓ Experiment with multiple media and techniques in your preparatory work. Examiners want to see evidence of exploration and risk-taking, not just a final polished piece.
✓ Research artists and designers who inspire you and write clear annotations explaining how their work has influenced your own creative decisions.
✓ Document your creative process thoroughly with photographs, annotations and reflections. The development of ideas is worth as many marks as the final outcome.

Exam Tips for iGCSE Art & Design

✓ Start the externally set assignment early and spend significant time on preparatory studies. The quality of your preparation directly impacts the success of the final piece.
✓ Manage your time carefully during the exam sitting. Plan your composition before committing to the final piece and have all materials prepared in advance.
✓ Make your intentions clear through written annotations. Examiners cannot assess ideas that are in your head but not evidenced in your portfolio.

Topics to Cover

8 topics in iGCSE Art & Design

Observational Drawing

Painting

Printmaking

Photography

Mixed Media

Critical Studies

Portfolio Development

Exam Preparation

Available Exam Boards

iGCSE Art & Design specification guides for each exam board

Cambridge International Edexcel International

Frequently Asked Questions

What media can I use for iGCSE Art and Design? +

You can use a wide range of media including pencil, charcoal, paint, ink, printmaking, collage, textiles, ceramics, photography and digital art. The specific options available depend on your school and the endorsement chosen.

How is iGCSE Art and Design assessed? +

Assessment is based on a portfolio of coursework (typically 50%) and an externally set examination assignment (50%). The portfolio includes preparatory studies and final outcomes developed over the course, while the exam requires a response to a set theme completed within a supervised timeframe.

Do I need to be naturally talented to do iGCSE Art? +

Natural talent helps, but iGCSE Art and Design rewards effort, experimentation and the development of skills over time. Students who work consistently, take risks with different media and reflect on their progress can achieve high grades regardless of starting ability.

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