Tuesday, 9 June 2009

Hope the exam went well






Hello to all my students,
It was good to see you all before your exam. Hope you did not find it too hard - although looking at the paper I found myself thinking about your time management. The paper was asking a lot to be completed in the time - would like some feedback about this. did you think you had enough time?
GOOD NEWS - the moderator has agrred with our marking so you know that your individual targets were accurate.

Thursday, 16 April 2009

Friday, 10 April 2009

Revision alongside Preparation paper

Graphic Products revision points
isometric drawings;
third angle orthographic
2D elevations of 3D products.
British Standards symbols and conventions;
Produce scale drawings using correct conventions.

Surface development (net)
3D containers from sheet material;
Analyse how simple boxes are assembled.

Demonstrate a knowledge of CAD/CAM to produce surface developments;
Information drawings represent data in graphical form i.e. 2D and 3D bar and pie charts, line graphs and pictographs;
Results of surveys and questionnaires.
Use CAD packages.

Study one off, batch and mass production.
just in time;
IInvestigate packaging, newspapers, posters. understand how and why quality checks are made in production;
Recognising colour registration marks,
position marks, use template (in DTP).
demonstrate an understanding of commercial printing methods i.e. letterpress, lithography,
effects used in printing, varnishing (oil, UV, spirit and
water), laminating, embossing and foil application;
know how nets + developments are produced by the use of die cutters and creasing
bars; Understand how CAD/CAM is used in the production of a graphic product;
Use CAD/CAM in single item, batch or volume production.
Use printing, vinyl cutting or CNC techniques to demonstrate the principles involved.
Investigate the data contained in a bar code and its use in marketing.
Experience patterns, jigs, moulds, formers and templates. understand the function and need for packaging: protection, need in transportation, storage, security, display, give consumer information;
Demonstrate the reduction of waste and show economical use of materials; Plan multiple cut-outs from a given quantity of materials (tessellations). know the units by which the thickness of paper, card and board are measured; Compare the weight of paper and its use.
Use vacuum forming to create packages. understand the physical properties of sheet and block modelling materials i.e. corrugated plastic sheet, foam core board, card, block form, hard wax.
Enhancement use pencils, pens and colour to add visual impact to designs and accentuate shape and form i.e. thick/think line highlighting; Add realism to drawings and sketches. use textural representation to convey different materials and surfaces , i.e. woods, metals, plastics and glass;
Experience colour mixing e.g. paints, CAD software. Presentation mount drawings; Pictorial drawings use photographs; produce two point perspective sketches; Use photography from any source either self-generated or found, digital or film, to record research, sizes of design and users etc. Use perspective grids. produce isometric drawings; Use isometric grid paper and instruments to produce drawings. Working drawings use third angle orthographic projection; use British Standards symbols and conventions; Apply the correct dimensions, scales and symbols to drawings. Surface development (nets) make boxes based on rectangular and cubic forms
Flowcharts with feedback loops; produce sequential illustrations;
different attitudes, beliefs and values of different groups, e.g. religious, gender, handicapped etc. consider moral and cultural implications of graphic products; issues involved with exploitation of natural resources and the effects on indigenous peoples. Consider cultural and religious preferences e.g. imagery, colour. Investigate printing and lettering.

Sunday, 5 April 2009

Sunday 5th April FINAL Marking progress and pointers

BenS
As previous blog mentioned you have produced a good effort but I need your specification. Try to do it over Easter. Remember it is simply a list of your outcomes and should include details of sizes, materials used in the real world to make them, colour, etc.

SamH - your folio is basically empty. I am sure I saw some pages once - where are they?
It is a shame because your model outcome is good. If you want a reasonable grade get some completed sheets to me via the school office on Monday 20th.

PaulTh - folio excellent and complete.

TomEv - Your folio is excellent in parts but is missing the Prodesktop pages and the flow diagram so as things stand you are throwing away a full grade I would suggest. Perhaps you could try and get these pages to me first week back?

DannyHu - Please have a real try at getting me those missing pages - you are going to struggle to get a C at present - yet you can easily get to B with some little more work - you know what is needed but if you have any doubts please contact me.

Thursday, 2 April 2009

Note for BS, JJDC and JPT

BS

Hello, your grade overall could be improved a lot by completing a specification. I cannot see one in your folder.
It needs to list all your outcomes, it also needs to be SPECIFIC - remember to add notes about each outcome which describe material, colour, SIZE.
Looking at a B at present.
Can get to an A with specification completed.

JJDC
Before I can mark I need to reorder your folio .. aaarrrghhh.
Okay straight away your QC and QA needs work - far too simple as it is.
Will post when I have marked in detail.
Just been through it ( the folio ) looks C+ or possibly B- depending on some simple changes / additions. See me later.

JPT
Put in the 3 pages - should be an A - well done.

Saturday, 21 March 2009

Friday 20th March

Two dedicated students stayed back and progressed their coursework - well done.
Folios were assembled this week and provisional marking is commencing.
If time permits folios can be improved.

Tuesday, 10 March 2009

Good session after school - however,,,,

Several students worked independently tonight whilst I was in a meeting next door. Nevertheless it is a shame to report one student was caught mal-treating the laminating machine as I returned. If not caught it could easily have broken the machine which is vital for other students to use for their coursework.
Name of student AG

Folios assembled on the 17th March

We need to complete an EVALUATION sheet and then compile our folios.
Students need to complete candidate record forms and list software used etc.

Mr. Geekie will then start marking the folios. If there is time to improve the folio then suggestions will be made to individual students.

Remember all practical work also needs to be completed.

Wednesday, 4 March 2009

REVISION NOTES - CHECK OUT BELOW

Please be aware that we now have been issued with details about what the theme will be for this years examination. This will help us to research and revise relevant areas. Students will be given a copy next lesson, though the priority is to complete folio and practical outcomes. This is looking more hopeful as students are generally working well.
THE EXAMINATION IS ABOUT A SITUATION OR SPECIFICATION SET BY THE EXAM BOARD AND LINKED TO THE THEME ( DETAILS ISSUED SOON )- THE TRICKY PART OF THE EXAM ALWAYS CONCERNS KNOWLEDGE OF THE SYLLABUS. I WOULD SAY 85% OF THE EXAM IS STRAIGHTFORWARD - STUDENTS PROGRESSING THEIR DESIGNS - AS PAST PAPERS WILL SHOW. HOWEVER IT IS THE 15% OF THE PAPER WHICH CONCERNS KNOWLEDGE OF SYLLABUS - SEE SUGGESTED AREAS BELOW.

REMEMBER I GAVE EVERYONE A REVISION GUIDE BOOK - PLEASE REFER TO THIS.

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE.


Understand isometric drawings;
Working drawings use third angle orthographic
projection; 2D elevations of 3D products. use British Standards symbols
and conventions; Apply appropriate dimensions, scales and symbols to drawings. demonstrate use of simple assembly and sectional drawings; Study graphic products and disassemble them. interpret room, site plans and maps;
Produce scale drawings using correct conventions.
Surface development (net)
demonstrate the creation of simple 3D containers from sheet material;
know the difference between “tuck in” and “automatic bases” for containers;
Analyse how simple boxes are assembled.

Demonstrate a knowledge of CAD/CAM to produce surface developments;
Information drawings represent data in graphical form i.e. 2D and 3D bar and pie charts, line graphs and pictographs;
Results of surveys and questionnaires. Use CAD packages.

Study the international language of signs e.g. telephone, sporting activities, Olympic symbols, airport signs. anticipate and design for production in quantity; understand how the method of production changes from single to multiple production;
Study one off, batch and mass production.
understand the different demands of different scales of production; Study the manufacture of common commercial graphic products e.g. newspapers, flyers. understand and name the various methods of production i.e. ëone-
off, batch, mass and continuous and ëjust in timeí; Identify the correct method for
specific graphic products. understand how common graphical products are designed and manufactured; Investigate packaging, newspapers, posters. understand how and why quality checks are made in production; Recognising colour registration marks, position marks, use template (in DTP). demonstrate an understanding of commercial printing methods i.e. letterpress, lithography, flexography, gravure and screen printing; name the four processing colours and know the order of application;
Match production method to best printing methods for a range of graphic products.
name effects used in printing, varnishing (oil, UV, spirit and
water), laminating, embossing and foil application; know how multiple surface developments are produced by the use of die cutters and creasing
bars; understand that a photocopier can be used to enlarge/reduce and duplicate an original, and that different papers and materials (acetate) can be used.
Understand how CAD/CAM is used in the production of a graphic product;
Use CAD/CAM in single item, batch or volume production. Use printing, vinyl cutting or CNC techniques to demonstrate the principles involved.
describe the uses of scanner readers and bar codes; Investigate the data contained in a bar code and its use in marketing. Experience patterns, jigs, moulds, formers and templates. understand the function and need for packaging: protection, need in transportation, storage, security, display, give consumer information;
Demonstrate the reduction of waste and show economical use of materials; Plan multiple cut-outs from a given quantity of materials (tessellations). know the units by which the thickness of paper, card and board are measured; Compare the weight of paper and its use.
Materials and components
understand the physical properties and use of cartridge paper, card and board. Apply different materials to a situation and evaluate their performance e.g. grain, hardness, texture, strength, moisture absorption. understand the physical properties of polystyrenes and PVC; Use vacuum forming to create packages. understand the physical properties of sheet and block modelling materials i.e.
corrugated plastic sheet, foam core board, card, block form, hard wax. Use correct materials for the task in hand. Make judgements about cost, flexibility, finish, rigidity, strength, quality and weight. know that some modelling materials require fillers and
finishing with paint; Apply a good quality finish to a model. know the functions of pigments and ëvehiclesí in inks and paint; Test application on different materials. have an awareness of new graphic and modelling materials (treated card for ink-jet printing, smart materials, machining foams);
Enhancement use pencils, pens and colour to add visual impact to designs and accentuate shape and form i.e. thick/think line highlighting; Add realism to drawings and
sketches. use textural representation to convey different materials and surfaces , i.e. woods, metals, plastics and glass; Add rendering to suggest a variety of surfaces and finishes e.g. polished wood, translucent plastic, steel. name the primary colours;
demonstrate an understanding of contrast;
Experience colour mixing e.g. paints, CAD software. Presentation mount drawings; Make card mounts and frames. demonstrate a knowledge ofCAD/CAM graphic manipulation to create images of a graphic product; Produce summative or formative computer generated images that communicate ideas to another party.
Pictorial drawings use photographs; produce two point perspective sketches; Use photography from any source either self-generated or found, digital or film, to record research, sizes of design and users etc. Use perspective grids. produce isometric drawings; Use isometric grid paper and instruments to produce drawings. Working drawings use third angle orthographic projection; use British Standards symbols and conventions; Apply the correct dimensions, scales and symbols to drawings. Surface development (nets) make boxes based on rectangular and cubic forms; Analyse commercial packages. demonstrate knowledge of CAD/CAM to produce surface developments; Use computer output devices to plot score/cut developments.Information drawings represent data in graphical form i.e. 2D bar and pie charts, and pictograph; Results of surveys and questionnaires. Use CAD packages. produce ideograms and pictograms; Study the international language of signs e.g. sporting activities, Olympic symbols, airport signs. Flowcharts with feedback loops; produce sequential illustrations; Show how to assemble “flat pack”furniture. environmental issues recognise that graphical images and products should not offend minority groups; Debate the different attitudes, beliefs and values of different groups, e.g. religious, gender, handicapped etc. consider moral and cultural implications of graphic products; Debate issues involved with exploitation of natural resources and the effects on indigenous peoples. Consider cultural and religious preferences e.g. imagery, colour. Investigate printing and lettering.

Examination date 8th June ( Monday ) pm

Great time for an exam - especially as none seem to be scheduled for the morning. MAKE A NOTE. This will give you a weekend to revise. Can I suggest you do nothing Sunday evening except relax. Watch a video or read a book, play games on a computer.

Good to see students again tonight after school

Great to see students working hard in lesson today and also to see more staying for the twilight session.

Tuesday, 3 March 2009

Will collect folios on Tuesday 17th for marking.

Make sure all folios are in school on the 17th, a Tuesday. We need to sort them out assemble and complete cover sheets.

12 students at evening session

Great to see so many students after school - well done everyone.

Printer cleaned and now working

The ICT staff managed to clean the printer ( magenta ) drum, faulty cartridge apparently. constant problem with non-original replacements.

More printer problems

Very frustrating to see the laser colour printer malfunctioning again. Held up work last week and Monday and after school on Monday.

Thursday, 26 February 2009

Year 11 parents evening 26th Feb 2009

Firstly can I say what a pleasure it has been to meet so many parents tonight. It is pleasant to be able to report on some good efforts by all the students concerned. The basic need at the present time is to complete coursework and to double check folios AND then "prepare for the exam"

Good luck to everyone

Mr. Geekie

Tuesday, 24 February 2009

Deadline approaches

We extended the coursework deadline to this coming Friday 27th February. So all work should be done by then. I am at school again tonight and indeed Friday night after school. I have a meeting on Wednesday and we have a parents evening on Thursday so these nights are out.
Next week we need to assemble folios and double checking for omissions.

Good to see all the hard work - do not panic

Yesterday and today ( Tuesday ) have been pleasant days seeing students working well. Today we all addressed the flow chart for planning - some to include reference to quality control and some to quality assurance, also health and safety. Some students are to complete the sheet in their own time. Most completed it in the lesson. The practical outcomes are progressing - students must remember to include their own ICT generated graphics on their 3D outcomes, especially shops / restaurants etc. No good making a brilliant scale model without these added graphics.

Sunday, 15 February 2009

Half term ( Feb 09 ) updating you all

I have produced cover sheets for all your folios - on to which we need photographs of your finished graphic product outcomes. Also, I have prepared the marking sheets and grade sheets - all of which to be added to your folios.
I have a MUG for CV - need to add image of restaurant logo when we get back.

Friday, 13 February 2009

What is left to do?

For the information of both students and parents / guardians, I thought you may like to know what is needed to complete their coursework.
Students are generally under a lot of pressure and I keep telling them not to worry or get too stressed.
Remember the folio has sections - sections which attract grading points, these are
Research
Analysis
specification
Generation of ideas.... etc

As I have said and as I have always told students, we will complete some of the necessary sections after half term. These are specifically, QUALITY CONTROL ans QUALITY ASSURANCE, RISK ASSESSMENT, FLOW DIAGRAM ( see previous posts ) AND EVALUATION. These should be straightforward - I will lead everyone through these elements and we will do them together so do not worry. One are which we must not forget is the introduction and the brief - perhaps some students need to revisit this initial page.
However remember the folio only represents 40% of the coursework. The practical outcomes are 60%. SO WE MUST HAVE PRACTICAL OUTCOMES. These need to relate to the specification - that is, they must answer what you said you would actually you would do - what you would make. Remember to add logos to your outcomes.

Thursday, 12 February 2009

See the quickly created outlines for PLANNING flow charts below

Click on the images to see larger - readable outlines. These are as promised and can help remind you of what is needed. Alll we need to ee in your folios is ONE well laid out example drawn neatly on an A3 page. DOUBLE check the stages for yourselves and indicate any points which you regard are QUALITY ASSURANCE or QUALITY CONTROL or indeed HEALTH AND SAFETY.

Thursday 12th February WILD WEATHER







I am at a parents evening at the moment.
I have prepared some guidelines for students taking GCSE Graphics to complete a planning flow chart. I have produced 3 maybe do another tomorrow FLOW CHART models which students could adapt or at least use as a reminder about what is needed.
I will put these up on the web this evening when I get home - so please check this BLOG.

I have produced an example for a shop / stand.
Aother one for a mobile phone
and another for a mobile phone box.
Students can also consider producing a flow diagram for - foe example using a computer to design something for their project. Consider this for Pro_Desktop, some have got on with this anyway, have you used Photoshop - again consider this.

Keep checking - and as well as your QC and QA page ( guidelines issued to all students before today so they can complete over half term ), you need to produce a planning sheet. Hence the need for a flow diagram detailed above.

Tuesday, 10 February 2009

Do not forget evening sessions available to finish c/w

Monday and Tuesday just gone but Wednesday { tomorrow ) and Friday are available this week. Thursday is a Parents; evening.
Also next week is half term. Work has been set for students to address qa and qc.
Then we have one more week after half term.
Evenings as well as lesson time.

EXTENDED DEADLINE

It is really great to see - although rather late - concentrated efforts from most students. Keep it up. Over half term complete the QA and QC sheet I gave you. We will address risk assessment and evaluation and flow diagrams when you get back.
Hope you all have a good half term.

Friday, 6 February 2009

Extended deadline to help with coursework

To help students to complete their coursework the technology department have decided to extend the deadline to 27th February. This is the week after half term.
So, as far as Graphics is concerned we have 3 weeks ( including half term ) to complete our coursework.
I will be preparing templates to help with evaluation, risk assessment, flow diagrams and quality control / assurance. Hopefully students will work on these over half term if they have not done them yet

Wednesday, 4 February 2009

Extra time tonight for coursework.

As mentioned to students I will be staying on tonight to help students with their coursework. Hope to address PTC work for some students.
PRIORITY - get the practical work finished - our initial aim was next Friday 13th Feb - we have all been aware of this since the course started ( early ) in May.
All work including risk assessment, QA and QC, evaluation etc is still scheduled for after half term - when we will all sit down and do this together.

Problems printing work

If you have problems printing - check out
programs
start menu
then click the green link / file ( will reset printer )

Sunday, 1 February 2009

Need to cancel Monday evening due to severe weather

I will be at school on Monday evening - however due to the severe weather I would recommend that students get themselves home after school. I will stay Wednesday evening next week if that helps.

Mr. Geekie

Wednesday, 28 January 2009

Printer back working - 2 weeks to half term

Thank you to everyone this week you have all suddenly gelled and I could not ask for more effort - well done. Be positive - be confident - you can all do well with the coursework if you believe in yourselves and keep being positive.

Tuesday, 20 January 2009

Laser cutter unavailable - printer erratic

Continuing problems with above hampering progress for some students. 3 weeks after this week to complete practical ( aiming for the 13 th February )

Tuesday, 13 January 2009

Laser cutter problems

Laser now NOT working again. We thought the service had solved the problem but it looks like it may need external servicing ( gassing )

Printer problems

We have now had the printer black cartridge replaced - just too late to use for most students this week. However some students managed to print, printer is working well or so we thought - after several students tried to print work it became evident that the colours were no where near correct - down to an empyish blue cartridge...... hey ho.

Please keep trying to complete your practical work - printer and computers problems aside. We only have 5 weeks to complete. After this we need to re-visit the folio to add essential pages. We will do this as a group.

Wednesday, 7 January 2009

Folios must be in the locked cupboard for marking

Crist M needs to bring folio in for me to update records.
Promised to bring in next lesson - thus missing a week - again.
Matthew L - Sam H need more application - really must respond to needs of coursework, not much time left - please make some efforts.
Arron McF - we need to have folio evidence - tried comicworks on mac to no avail. Arron to screen dump into word.

Still problems with printer and laser cutter

We are still being frustrated by the lack of resources to progress our practical work. As mentioned before we must get our practical work completed by 13th February which will allow time to address some folio elements as a class.

Sunday, 4 January 2009

Priority for next 6 weeks

We aim to complete the coursework by Friday 13th February.
Thus our focus is to complete the practical element by then, especially as it represents 60 % of the total coursework mark.
Most of you have made a good start on this - with some good scale modeling. However remember we are assessed on the graphics which are added to the practical work. We need to be clear about what is needed, ie., graphics created using Photoshop or corel or paint shop pro MUST be added to the models. Include your logos ( which you designed earlier ). If you are making a shop front or exhibition stand you need to have the walls and floor covered with graphics. Mobile phone models need to be photographed and these to be used on packaging, leaflets, adverts etc.