Drawing and Research — University of the Arts London Occupational Qualification Art and Design Revision

    This topic covers drawing as a research tool, including identifying research sources and methods. Learners will use drawing to investigate and record infor

    Topic Synopsis

    This topic covers drawing as a research tool, including identifying research sources and methods. Learners will use drawing to investigate and record information for a given purpose, developing observational and analytical skills.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Drawing and Research

    UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON
    vocational

    This topic covers drawing as a research tool, including identifying research sources and methods. Learners will use drawing to investigate and record information for a given purpose, developing observational and analytical skills.

    4
    Learning Outcomes
    11
    Assessment Guidance
    11
    Key Skills
    4
    Key Terms
    17
    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    UAL Level 2 Award in Drawing
    UAL Level 2 Certificate in Drawing
    UAL Level 3 Certificate in Drawing
    UAL Level 3 Award in Drawing

    Topic Overview

    The UAL Level 2 Award in Drawing is a foundational qualification designed to develop your observational, technical, and expressive drawing skills. This course covers a range of drawing approaches, from quick gesture sketches to detailed tonal studies, using various media such as pencil, charcoal, ink, and pastels. You'll explore line, tone, texture, form, perspective, and composition, learning how to translate three-dimensional objects onto a two-dimensional surface. This award is ideal for building confidence and preparing for further study in art and design, as drawing is a core skill across all creative disciplines.

    Drawing is not just about reproducing what you see; it's a way of thinking and communicating. Throughout this qualification, you'll be encouraged to experiment with different techniques and develop your personal style. You'll learn to analyse your subject matter critically, make creative decisions about composition and mark-making, and reflect on your own work to identify areas for improvement. The skills you gain here—such as hand-eye coordination, visual analysis, and creative problem-solving—are transferable to any art and design pathway, whether you're interested in fine art, graphic design, fashion, or architecture.

    This award fits into the broader UAL Level 2 suite of qualifications, which are recognised by employers and further education institutions. It provides a solid grounding for progression to a UAL Level 3 Diploma or A-level Art and Design. By mastering the fundamentals of drawing, you'll be better equipped to tackle more complex projects and express your ideas with clarity and confidence. The course is practical and hands-on, with assessment based on a portfolio of work that demonstrates your understanding of key drawing concepts and your ability to apply them in a range of contexts.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →Line and mark-making: Understanding how different types of lines (contour, gestural, hatching) can describe form, texture, and movement.
    • →Tone and value: Using light and dark to create the illusion of three-dimensional form, depth, and atmosphere.
    • →Perspective and proportion: Applying techniques like one-point and two-point perspective, and measuring proportions accurately to create realistic spatial relationships.
    • →Composition: Arranging elements within the picture plane to create balance, focal points, and visual interest.
    • →Media experimentation: Exploring the properties of different drawing materials (e.g., graphite, charcoal, ink, pastels) and how they affect the outcome.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Know research sources., Know research methods., Be able to use drawing to research for a given purpose.
    • Know research sources., Know research methods., Be able to use drawing to research for a given purpose.
    • Understand primary and secondary research sources., Understand research tools and methods., Be able to use drawing research knowledge and skills., Understand contextual perspectives and approaches to drawing and research.
    • Understand primary and secondary research sources., Understand research tools and methods., Be able to use drawing research knowledge and skills., Understand contextual perspectives and approaches to drawing and research.

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Identify appropriate research sources for drawing projects.
    • Use various research methods such as observation, photography, and sketching.
    • Apply drawing techniques to record and explore research findings.
    • Demonstrate how drawing can be used to develop ideas and solve problems.
    • Identify appropriate research sources for drawing projects.
    • Use various research methods effectively.
    • Apply drawing techniques to record and explore ideas.
    • Present research findings through drawings.
    • Identify and use primary and secondary research sources effectively.
    • Apply appropriate research tools and methods to inform drawing practice.
    • Demonstrate drawing skills that reflect research findings.
    • Understand contextual perspectives, including historical and contemporary approaches.
    • Evaluate how research influences creative outcomes.
    • Distinguish between primary and secondary research sources.
    • Select and use appropriate research tools and methods.
    • Apply research findings to inform drawing practice.
    • Analyse contextual perspectives in drawing and research.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡Keep a sketchbook to document your research process and reflections.
    • 💡Experiment with different drawing media to capture different qualities.
    • 💡Use annotation to explain your research choices and findings.
    • 💡Combine primary and secondary research.
    • 💡Use sketchbooks to show development.
    • 💡Annotate drawings to explain observations.
    • 💡Keep a sketchbook to record research and ideas throughout the unit.
    • 💡Visit galleries or online collections to gather primary visual research.
    • 💡Reflect on how research has influenced your drawing decisions.
    • 💡Use sketchbooks to record research processes.
    • 💡Reference specific artists or movements to support your work.
    • 💡Show your working out: Include preliminary sketches, thumbnails, and annotations in your portfolio. Examiners want to see your thought process and how you developed your ideas, not just the final piece.
    • 💡Experiment with media: Don't stick to one material. Try combining pencil with ink or charcoal with pastel. Demonstrating versatility and understanding of different media can boost your marks.
    • 💡Reflect critically: Write brief evaluations of your own work, noting what worked well and what you would improve. This shows self-awareness and a willingness to learn, which are highly valued.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Relying solely on secondary sources without primary observation.
    • Copying images without analysing or interpreting them.
    • Using drawing only as a recording tool, not as a means of exploration.
    • Relying on only one type of research source.
    • Drawing without clear purpose or analysis.
    • Neglecting to document the research process.
    • Relying solely on secondary sources without primary observation.
    • Failing to document research process for assessment.
    • Copying styles without understanding context or purpose.
    • Confusing primary and secondary sources.
    • Failing to document research methods clearly.
    • Misconception: Drawing is only about talent, not practice. Correction: Drawing is a skill that can be learned and improved through regular practice, observation, and understanding of techniques. Even the most skilled artists started with basic exercises.
    • Misconception: You must draw exactly what you see, like a photograph. Correction: Drawing is an interpretive process. While observation is key, you can exaggerate, simplify, or distort elements to express your personal vision or emphasise certain aspects.
    • Misconception: Using an eraser means you've made a mistake. Correction: Erasing is a legitimate tool for refining your work. Many artists use erasers to create highlights or correct proportions. It's part of the drawing process, not a sign of failure.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •Basic understanding of shapes and forms: Familiarity with geometric shapes (circles, squares, cylinders) helps when breaking down complex subjects.
    • •Hand-eye coordination: Some experience with holding a pencil and making controlled marks is beneficial, though not essential.
    • •Openness to feedback: Willingness to accept constructive criticism and try new approaches is key to progress.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • Know research sources., Know research methods., Be able to use drawing to research for a given purpose.
    • Know research sources., Know research methods., Be able to use drawing to research for a given purpose.
    • Understand primary and secondary research sources., Understand research tools and methods., Be able to use drawing research knowledge and skills., Understand contextual perspectives and approaches to drawing and research.
    • Understand primary and secondary research sources., Understand research tools and methods., Be able to use drawing research knowledge and skills., Understand contextual perspectives and approaches to drawing and research.

    Ready to learn?

    AI-powered learning tailored to this unit

    Related Topics in UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON vocational Art and Design

    Applied professional practice

    View Topic

    Establishing principles of technical and production practice

    View Topic

    Professional development project

    View Topic

    Developing Creative Practice

    View Topic
    Drawing and Research (University of the Arts London Occupational Qualification)