Graphic Design

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
K/617/1192
Credits:
6
Guided learning hours:
48 hours

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1. — Know about materials, techniques and processes used in graphic design.

Materials, techniques and processes used in graphic design:

  • Visual language (formal elements, line, tone, texture, colour, pattern, symmetry)
  • Wet Media (e.g. paint, printing techniques)
  • Dry Media (e.g. pencil, pen)
  • Digital Media (e.g. Image editing software packages)
  • Thumbnail Sketches
  • Colourways

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Explore the different materials, techniques and processes used in graphic design.

2. — Be able to generate ideas for and plan a graphic design.

Research sources:

  • Primary sources (e.g. observation drawings, photographs, visits)
  • Secondary sources (e.g. practitioner research, books, websites, blogs)
  • Existing products (e.g. magazine covers, CD/DVD covers, adverts, web, illustration, games)

How to generate ideas:

  • Style of product
  • Purpose
  • Target audience
  • Visual communication
  • Key messages
  • Design brief
  • Client needs
  • Identity
  • Branding
  • Mind maps
  • Sketches
  • Layout designs

Planning a graphic design:

  • Mind maps
  • Design layouts
  • Technical requirements
  • Resources
  • Prototypes
  • Selecting final ideas
  • Meeting the design brief
  • Resources
  • Time management
  • Budget

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Use different sources to generate ideas for a graphic design.

  • 2.2

    Plan the production of a graphic design.

3. — Be able to produce a graphic design.

Production of a graphic design:

  • Creating content
  • Importing resources
  • Editing assets
  • Developing alternative ideas
  • Project management
  • Saving files appropriately
  • Publishing
  • Keeping a production log
  • Copyright legislation

Presentation formats:

  • PowerPoint presentation
  • Group presentation
  • Group critique
  • Using visual aids
  • Effective communication
  • Client needs
  • Meeting the design brief

Safe working practices:

  • Importance of health and safety
  • Working safely with equipment
  • Working safely with computers
  • Maintaining a safe working environment

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Use different tools and techniques to create a graphic design.

  • 3.2

    Present the graphic design in an appropriate format.

4. — Be able to review graphic design work.

Review graphic design product.

Include reflections on:

  • how well you worked to produce the graphic strengths and areas for development in your way of working
  • the effectiveness of the graphic design (how well it met its purpose/the brief)

Draw on:

  • User feedback
  • Own self-assessment
  • Feedback from those who worked with you

Suggest improvements to own work:

  • More efficient or effective ways of working
  • Ways to improve the graphic design

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    Outline strengths and areas for development of graphic design work produced.

  • 4.2

    Suggest improvements to own work.