Unit 1: The Portfolio
We have chosen the theme of Contrasts as a way of helping students develop a view about the many different aspects of photography. The AS course offers students the opportunity to learn about photography history, its techniques and processes, how to apply an understanding of visual language and the formal elements and, most importantly, how to develop a sophisticated body of work. Below is an outline of the exam board's expectations for this unit and a copy of our Programme of Study.
Candidates may submit in their portfolio:
There is no restriction in the scale of work produced but candidates should carefully select, organise and present work to ensure that they provide evidence of meeting all four assessment objectives
Candidates may submit in their portfolio:
- A selection of thoughtfully presented work that demonstrates the breadth and depth of the course of study.
- At least one extended collection of work, or project, based on an idea, concept, theme or issue which demonstrates the candidate’s ability to sustain work from an initial starting point to a realisation and includes evidence of their ability to research, develop ideas and link their work in a meaningful way to related critical/contextual materials.
- Critical/contextual work which could include written materials, such as journals, reviews, reflections and evaluations, annotations and historical background material. Examples of video, film, photographs and slide presentations may also be submitted. Evidence may also be included from the Internet, from books and journals, as well as studies made during a residency, site or gallery/museum visit. When appropriate sources should be identified and acknowledged.
- Sketchbooks, workbooks and journals. Alternatively, candidates may wish to present a series of related images on mounted sheets.
- The portfolio may, when appropriate to candidates’ chosen area of study, include examples of three-dimensional work.
There is no restriction in the scale of work produced but candidates should carefully select, organise and present work to ensure that they provide evidence of meeting all four assessment objectives