Design & Communication Graphics

Design and Communications Graphics (Leaving Cert Technical Graphics course)

This is a new syllabus introduced in 2009. Design and Communication Graphics provides students with the opportunity to engage in a form of problem solving that calls on the students ability to visualise objects in 3D space. Problem solving and creative thinking skills are developed through the analysis and solution of both 2- and 3-dimensional graphics. Graphics and design are communicated using freehand sketching skills, traditional draughting equipment and CAD Computer Aided Design software.

If you are interested in taking this subject to Leaving Certificate level you will have taken Technical Graphics to Junior Certificate level. There is a great emphasis in the Leaving Certificate course on comprehension, analysis and problem solving. In simple terms you will be given a problem and you must be able to visualise what has to be done, analyse how you are going to approach it and then proceed to solve the problem. Although it is not an essential subject for either architecture or engineering it is regarded as useful if you are thinking of a technical course.

The use of SolidWorks (3D modelling program) throughout the course is essential to developing the student’s ability to visualise and manipulate objects in both 3D space and 2D views. This element will also appeal to students with a creative and inquisitive nature. The students will use all the skills they have learned during the 5 years to complete a project which is based around the design process and the communication of the students design exploration. This culminates in the realisation of that new design through a scaled model made using SolidWorks

Subject Content

DCG Consists of a core section comprised of (a) plane and solid geometry and (b) communication computer graphics. There is also third section which students are given 5 options to study and they must pick 2 this is the Applied Graphics Section.

All topics are the same for Higher and Ordinary Level. The difference lies in depth of knowledge.

Exam Structure

Terminal Exam Paper 60% + Student Assignment 40%

 Student Assignment: 160 Marks

Different themes set for Higher and Ordinary Level less depth required at ordinary level with particular emphasis on:

•             Elements of design

•             Communication graphics

•             Use of ICT’S in design

•             Presentation and unique styles

Students of higher and ordinary levels have the option of submitting the following:

•             A design investigation and modification

•             A  design investigation and completely new concept design

•             Students who submit a new concept are showing to achieve higher grades.

Third Level Entry Requirements

This subject is not an essential requirement for any courses in the CAO system.

Very useful for: All Engineering careers, Architecture, Army and Air Corps Apprenticeships, CAD, Cartographer, Construction Studies/Trades, Engineering Trades, Fitter, Industrial Designer, Motor Mechanic, Structural Design, Draughts Person, Product design, Radiography.

Final Comments

• It is an advantage to have studied Technical Graphics at Junior Cert. Level.
• Free-hand sketching is a main component of the core therefore Junior Cert art, materials technology wood and/or technology would serve as an advantage in this area.
• A basic knowledge of ICT and the appropriate skills are also beneficial.
• Students must also appreciate that work completed must conform to a high standard of neatness and draftsman-ship