Twizel Area School Twizel Area School

NCEA Level 1 Visual Art

1ART
Course Description

Teacher in Charge: Mrs C. Frost.

Recommended Prior Learning

There is no prerequisite to this subject however, completing a successful year’s work at Year 10 would be helpful. Self-discipline and a willingness to engage with the programme are essential. The ability to recognise personal strengths and learn from the examples of other Artists is important also.

In the Level 1 Visual Arts course, students will learn to create using practical art skills such as painting and sculpture and begin the course by creating work influenced by artists from Aotearoa New Zealand and abroad. They will explore ideas around telling a story using a visual medium, and as they develop their portfolio, expand their knowledge of practical techniques in art-making.

This course is recommended for students with pathways that involve creative thinking and communication. Students who wish to take Painting or Sculpture in Years 12 and 13 would benefit from both the creative process and technical skills learned.



The course offers an opportunity for students to form strong foundation skills in preparation for NCEA level 2 and 3 Visual Arts subjects. Students will extend their practical skills by experimenting with a range of art disciplines, such as drawing, printmaking, sculpture and painting.

Course learning will include:

  • Drawing from subject matter using wet and dry media. 
  • Developing Art ideas through the production of related drawings and paintings.
  • Research artworks from various NZ and international culturally significant artists. 
  • Optional extension standards will be available.

Assessments will be individually chosen from standards available to suit the unique needs of each learner.


Below you can see examples from Level 1 Visual Arts portfolios that were graded Excellence. Click the images to enlarge:

Learning Areas:

Year 11, Visual Arts


Pathway

NCEA Level 2 Art Design, NCEA Level 2 Painting, NCEA Level 2 Photography, NCEA Level 2 Printmaking, NCEA Level 2 Sculpture

Career Pathways

Art Director (Film, Television or Stage), Artistic Director, Film and Video Editor, Graphic Designer, Media Producer, Primary School Teacher, Private Teacher/Tutor, Secondary School Teacher, Animator/Digital Artist, Artist, Film/Television Camera Operator, Photographer, Tattoo Artist, Make-up Artist


Contributions and Equipment/Stationery

Access to a computer and digital camera outside of school would be an advantage for all Visual Arts students but not essential. You will need to keep a visual diary or equivalent for your initial ideas and plans and be prepared to research, visit and explore areas of interest to focus your artwork on.



You will need an A3 Art Visual Diary or equivalent and presentation clear files to present your internal paperwork for assessment.