Component 2: Externally Set Assignment
Overview
Component 2 is set by Cambridge, not by you or your teacher. Each year Cambridge releases a paper with a range of themes, starting points and questions. You choose one and respond to it - first through preparatory studies that you develop under normal supervised conditions over a period of weeks, and then in a single 8-hour supervised test in which you produce your final outcome. Component 2 is worth 40% of the total mark.
Because you cannot choose your own theme, Component 2 tests your ability to respond to an unfamiliar brief with the full range of skills you have developed during the course. This note covers how to read and interpret the Cambridge paper, how to plan and produce effective preparatory studies, and how to approach the 8-hour test strategically.
Objectives
- Respond to a theme set by Cambridge through supporting studies that explore the theme.
- Plan and produce a resolved final outcome during a supervised test of 8 hours.
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Lesson Note
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Component 2: Externally Set Assignment. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- How much of the total CIE IGCSE Art and Design mark does Component 2 (Externally Set Assignment) represent? A. 20% B. 30% C. 40% D. 50% Answer: C
- During the 8-hour supervised test, which of the following is a student permitted to use? A. A new artist they discovered on the morning of the test B. Preparatory work, reference images and materials developed during the preparatory phase C. Artwork from Component 1 D. Online image searches during the test Answer: B
- What is the most important reason for deciding on your final outcome before entering the 8-hour supervised test? A. Cambridge regulations require a plan to be submitted in advance B. It prevents you from being influenced by what other students are making C. Planning in advance ensures you have sufficient time to produce and refine your work D. The teacher needs to approve your plan before the test Answer: C
- Why can a student with strong preparatory studies but only a competent final outcome still score well in Component 2? A. The final outcome is not assessed B. The preparatory work is assessed alongside the outcome and carries much of the AO1 to AO3 evidence C. Cambridge ignores the 8-hour test D. Competent outcomes always score highest Answer: B
- A student abandons their prepared representational plan mid-test after seeing a neighbour's abstract work. Why is this usually a mistake? A. Abstract work is not permitted in Component 2 B. The new direction has no developmental foundation, so the outcome is usually weaker and less resolved C. Students may not look at others' work at any time D. Representational work always scores higher than abstract work Answer: B
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