Examine how meanings are communicated through art works
In this standard you write one essay (about 800–900 words) in an exam, choosing one question from a set. The question will give you a theme or idea, and you need to show how two real artworks from your area of study communicate meaning — through their motifs (symbols, images, and features), the artists' intentions, and the historical or cultural context behind the works. You are expected to go beyond just describing what the artworks look like and instead explain what they mean and why.
You correctly name both artists and artworks, stay on topic by linking your discussion to the question's theme, pick out at least two suitable motifs or features in each work, and give a basic explanation of what those motifs mean.
You go into more depth on the meaning of motifs in both works, bring in some relevant contextual information (such as the time period or key influences on the artist), show a good understanding of what each artist was trying to achieve, and may refer to other works by the same artists to back up your points.
You write a perceptive, well-structured response that critically explores the significance of motifs and meanings, weaves in detailed and relevant historical or cultural context for both works, shows a thorough understanding of each artist's intentions and background, and ties motifs, meanings, themes, and context together in a joined-up, insightful discussion.
Standards typically taken alongside or after this one. Same subject, grouped by level.