Syllabus

Cambridge O Level
Art & Design 6090
Use this syllabus for exams in 2023.
Exams are available in the June and November series.

Version 2
Please check the syllabus page at www.cambridgeinternational.org/6090
to see if this syllabus is available in your administrative zone.
Why choose Cambridge International?

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Contents

1  Why choose this syllabus? ..................................................................................................... 2

2  Syllabus overview .................................................................................................................... 5

Aims 5
Content overview 5
Assessment overview 6
Assessment objectives 7

3  Subject content .........................................................................................................................8

Skills and understanding common to all areas of study 8
Painting and related media 9
Graphic communication 10
Three-dimensional design 11
Textiles and fashion 12
Photography 13

4  Details of the assessment ....................................................................................................14

Component 1 – Coursework 14
Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment: Art 15
Component 3 – Externally Set Assignment: Design 16
Avoidance of plagiarism 17
Assessment criteria for Component 1, Component 2 and Component 3 18

5  What else you need to know ...............................................................................................19

Before you start 19
Making entries 20
After the exam 21
How students and teachers can use the grades 21
Grade descriptions 21
Changes to this syllabus for 2023 22

Important: Changes to this syllabus

For information about changes to this syllabus for 2023, go to page 22.
The latest syllabus is version 2, published November 2020. There are no significant changes which affect
teaching.
Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2020 are still suitable for use with this
syllabus.
Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.

1  Why choose this syllabus?

Key benefits
Cambridge O Level syllabuses are created especially for international students. For over 25 years, we have worked
with schools and teachers worldwide to develop syllabuses that are suitable for different countries, different types
of schools and for learners with a wide range of abilities. These qualifications are designed for students whose first
language may or may not be English and this is acknowledged throughout the examination process.

Cambridge O Level Art & Design encourages a range of skills, stimulates aesthetic awareness, knowledge and critical
understanding of art, and provides opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills. Crucially, a personal and
independent perspective is encouraged at all times. The syllabus is designed to accommodate a wide range of abilities,
materials and resources, and allows the different skills of the teaching staff to be fully used.

The syllabus appeals to learners who wish to explore practical work through a range of two- and/or
three-dimensional processes and include new media and technologies in addition to traditional media and
processes.

The syllabus helps equip learners with lifelong skills including:

• confidence and enthusiasm as they develop technical skills in two- and/or three-dimensional form and
composition
• the ability to identify and solve problems in visual and tactile forms
• the ability to develop ideas from initial attempts to outcomes.

Our programmes balance a thorough knowledge and understanding of a subject and help to develop the skills
learners need for their next steps in education or employment.

Our approach encourages learners to be:

Cambridge
learner

‘Cambridge O Level has helped me develop thinking and analytical skills which will go a long way
in helping me with advanced studies.’
Kamal Khan Virk, former student at Beaconhouse Garden Town Secondary School, Pakistan, who went on to study Actuarial Science at
the London School of Economics

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Why choose this syllabus?

International recognition and acceptance

The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge O Level Art & Design gives learners a solid foundation for
further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including
Cambridge International AS & A Level Art & Design and AS & A Level Digital Media & Design.

Cambridge O Levels are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence
of academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and
Cambridge O Levels or equivalent to meet their entry requirements.

Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Why choose this syllabus?

Supporting teachers
We provide a wide range of resources, detailed guidance and innovative training and professional development so
that you can give your students the best possible preparation for Cambridge O Level. To find out which resources
are available for each syllabus go to our School Support Hub.

The School Support Hub is our secure online site for Cambridge teachers where you can find the resources you need
to deliver our programmes. You can also keep up to date with your subject and the global Cambridge community
through our online discussion forums.

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/support

Planning and preparation Teaching and assessment

•  Next step guides •  Endorsed resources
•  Schemes of work • Online forums
•  Specimen papers •  Support for coursework and speaking tests
• Syllabuses
•  Teacher guides
Support
for Cambridge
O Level
Learning and revision  Results
•  Example candidate responses •  Candidate Results Service
•  Learner guides •  Principal examiner reports for teachers
•  Past papers and mark schemes •  Results Analysis
•  Specimen paper answers

Sign up for email notifications about changes to syllabuses, including new and revised products and services at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/syllabusupdates

Professional development
We support teachers through:
• Introductory Training – face-to-face or online
• Extension Training – face-to-face or online
• Enrichment Professional Development – face-to-face or online
Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/events

• Cambridge Professional Development Qualifications

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/profdev

Supporting exams officers

We provide comprehensive support and guidance for all Cambridge exams officers. Find out more at:
www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.

2  Syllabus overview

Aims
The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to develop:

• an ability to record from direct observation and personal experience
• an ability to identify and solve problems in visual and/or other forms
• creativity, visual awareness, critical and cultural understanding
• an imaginative, creative and personal response
• confidence, enthusiasm and a sense of achievement in the practice of art and design
• growing independence in the refinement and development of ideas and personal outcomes
• engagement and experimentation with a range of media, materials and techniques, including new media and
technologies, where appropriate
• experience of working in relevant frameworks and exploration of manipulative skills necessary to form,
compose and communicate in two and/or three dimensions
• a working vocabulary relevant to the subject and an interest in, and a critical awareness of, other practitioners,
environments and cultures
• investigative, analytical, experimental, interpretative, practical, technical and expressive skills which aid
effective and independent learning.

Content overview
Cambridge O Level Art & Design has been designed to offer a broad choice of media and approaches so that
candidates can produce a personal response and schools can play to their strengths in terms of staff expertise and
interests.

The broad areas of study are:

• painting and related media
• graphic communication
• three-dimensional design
• textiles and fashion
• photography.

Candidates can respond to any component using any of the media listed in the areas of study above.

This O Level syllabus shares content with other Art & Design syllabuses. For further support see the
School Support Hub for IGCSE Art & Design (0400). Textbooks endorsed to support IGCSE Art & Design
(0400) are suitable for use with this syllabus.

Cambridge Assessment International Education is an education organisation and politically neutral.

The contents of this syllabus, examination papers and associated materials do not endorse any political
view. We endeavour to treat all aspects of the exam process neutrally.

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Syllabus overview

Assessment overview
All candidates take two components. All candidates must take Component 2. In the June examination series, all
candidates must take Component 1 and Component 2. In the November examination series, all candidates must
take Component 2 and choose either Component 1 or Component 3.

Availability June series November series

Component 1  
Component 2 (compulsory)  
Component 3 not available 

All candidates take either: All candidates take:

Component 1 Component 2 8 hours

Coursework 50% Externally Set Assignment: Art 50%
100 marks 100 marks
Candidates research, develop and realise a project Candidates respond to one starting point set by
from one or more of the areas of study and should Cambridge International. Candidates may produce
explore a theme. work from the same areas of study as Component 1
There are two parts to the coursework: or Component 3, but they do not have to.
–  a portfolio and There are two parts to the assignment:
–  a final outcome. –  supporting studies and
Externally assessed – a final outcome, produced during a supervised
test of 8 hours’ total duration.
Externally assessed

or:

Component 3 (November only) 8 hours

Externally set Assignment: Design 50%
100 marks
Candidates respond to one starting point set
by Cambridge International. Candidates may
produce work from the same area of study as
Component 2, but they do not have to.
There are two parts to the assignment:
–  supporting studies and
– a final outcome, produced during a supervised
test of 8 hours’ total duration.
Externally assessed

Information on availability is in the Before you start section.

Please check the samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples for submission information and
deadlines for Component 1 Coursework.
Please check the timetable at www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables for the test date window for
Component 2 and Component 3.

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Syllabus overview

Assessment objectives
The assessment objectives (AOs) are:

AO1 Record
Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions as work progresses.

AO2 Explore
Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processes.

AO3 Develop
Develop ideas through investigation, demonstrating critical understanding.

AO4 Present
Present a personal and coherent response that realises intentions and demonstrates an understanding of visual
language.

Weighting for assessment objectives

The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOs) are summarised below.

Assessment objectives as a percentage of the qualification

Assessment objective Weighting in O Level %

AO1 Record 25

AO2 Explore 25

AO3 Develop 25

AO4 Present 25

Total 100

Assessment objectives as a percentage of each component

Assessment objective Weighting in components %

Component 1 Component 2 Component 3

AO1 Record 25 25 25

AO2 Explore 25 25 25

AO3 Develop 25 25 25

AO4 Present 25 25 25

Total 100 100 100

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.

3  Subject content

You have the flexibility to structure a course that suits the available resources and your teaching expertise.

For guidance and advice on planning and scheduling your teaching, please refer to the Course Handbook.

Candidates can work in the same areas of study for any of the components, but they do not have to. You should
encourage your candidates to experiment according to their interests and the available support and resources.

The areas of study provide a framework of art and design practice and indicate an approach that encourages
exploration. Learners may use a broad range of different media, materials and techniques including traditional and
contemporary media and technologies, or a combination where appropriate, providing all assessment objectives
are met. Candidates are encouraged to produce a variety of creative responses through exploration with a range of
materials, processes and techniques.

Candidates are not expected to produce work from all the areas of study.

Skills and understanding common to all areas of study

Candidates who follow the Cambridge O Level Art & Design syllabus are expected to develop the following skills as
those outlined in each area of study.

Candidates must be able to:

• record their own experiences and observations from first-hand and secondary resources and personal research
• collect, record and respond to visual information using a range of techniques
• select, give context to and organise the information they collect in a coherent way
• effectively use a wide range of resources and use the information to develop their practice
• make personal investigations
• apply a range of skills to produce art and design work
• evaluate their own work, review and edit
• reflect, refine and adapt.

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

Painting and related media

Candidates should be encouraged to develop both their knowledge and skills in a broad range of media, processes
and techniques. They should demonstrate a personal response through painting and related media; they should
demonstrate working to a theme, starting point or brief and show the ability to consider artistic constraints and
problems. Candidates should consider traditional, contemporary and emerging techniques and approaches.

Candidates should work in one or more of the following:

• painting
• drawing
• assemblage/collage
• printmaking
• mixed media.

Candidates will need to:

• carry out visual research, using directly observed (first-hand) and secondary sources, record observations,
experiences and ideas in appropriate ways.
• explore and experiment with a wide range of different media (including recycled materials), techniques and
processes.
• carry out in-depth research into artists, designers and cultural influences to inform the development of their
ideas.
• select, review and refine their work throughout the whole process to produce a personal and resolved response.

Skills and techniques

Candidates will need to demonstrate the following skills and techniques:
• the ability to use appropriate materials, including recycled material, and techniques to communicate their
intention effectively
• an understanding of form, perspective and scale
• the ability to create images with consideration for space, balance and colour relationships
• effective use of a few appropriate skills such as tonal drawing, pen and ink, pastels, painting, printmaking,
collage
• the ability to respond to a theme or given starting point.

Knowledge and understanding

Candidates will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
• appropriate materials, processes, technologies and resources
• how painting and related media can be used to communicate ideas and observations
• the importance of social and cultural factors
• relevant painting and related media genres, styles and techniques used by artists, past and present
• the importance of intention, research, realisation and reflection to the artistic process.

Digital photography as a means of recording and image making can be used for gathering and researching ideas but
images must be submitted as hard copies.

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

Graphic communication
Candidates should be encouraged to develop both their knowledge and skills in a broad range of media, processes
and techniques. They should demonstrate visual meaning through graphic communication, working to a theme,
starting point or brief and considering design constraints and problems. Candidates should consider traditional,
contemporary and emerging techniques and approaches.

Candidates should work in one or more of the following:

• illustration
• printmaking
• packaging design
• advertising
• typography.

Candidates will need to:

• carry out visual research, using direct observation (first-hand) and secondary sources, record observations,
experiences and ideas in appropriate ways.
• explore and experiment with a wide range of different media, techniques and processes such as print media,
collage, pencils, inks and paper construction.
• show an awareness of current and historical design processes and concepts.
• explore the relationship between image and text, the use of colour composition, problem-solving and
communication to develop ideas.
• select, review and refine their work throughout the whole process to produce a personal and resolved response.

Skills and techniques

Candidates will need to demonstrate the following skills and techniques:
• the ability to use appropriate materials, including recycled, and techniques to communicate their intention
effectively
• an understanding of perspective, scale and colour
• the ability to create designs with consideration for space, balance and colour relationships
• effective use of a few appropriate skills such as drawing, photography, photo editing, printmaking, typography
and lettering, product design and package construction
• the ability to respond to a theme, starting point or design brief
• an awareness of the intended audience.

Knowledge and understanding

Candidates will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
• appropriate materials, processes, technologies and resources
• how graphic design can be used to communicate ideas and observations
• the importance of social and cultural factors in the making, exhibiting and viewing of work
• relevant graphic communication styles and techniques used by designers, past and present
• the importance of intention, research, realisation and reflection to the graphic design process.

Digital photography as a means of recording and image making can be used for gathering and researching ideas but
images must be submitted as hard copies.

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

Three-dimensional design
Candidates should be encouraged to develop both their knowledge and skills in a broad range of media, processes
and techniques. They should demonstrate their understanding of development of designs for a three-dimensional
outcome, working to a theme or brief and considering design constraints and problems. Candidates should consider
traditional, contemporary and emerging techniques and approaches.

Candidates should work in one or more of the following:

• sculpture/ceramics
• product design
• architectural: interior design/set design
• craft design: metalwork, papercrafts and woodwork
• jewellery and fashion accessories.

Candidates will need to:

• carry out visual research, using direct observational (first-hand) and secondary sources, record observations,
experiences and ideas in appropriate ways to show clear evidence of the development of their ideas.
• explore and experiment with a wide range of different media, techniques and processes such as clay, plaster,
cardboard, metal, string and tape and recycled material to develop maquettes for further development.
• carry out in-depth research into images and resources related to three-dimensional design, which reference a
range of cultural, social and local contexts.
• explore form, function and surface using models, samples, materials exploration and technical notes to develop
their ideas.
• select, review and refine their work throughout the whole process to plan and produce a personal and resolved
response.

Skills and techniques

Candidates will need to demonstrate the following skills and techniques:
• the ability to use appropriate materials and techniques to communicate their intention effectively
• an understanding of form, structure and scale
• the ability to create designs with consideration of texture, shape, colour and movement
• effective use of a few appropriate specialist working processes and equipment such as kilns, CAD, laser cutters
and hand tools
• the ability to respond to a theme or given starting point or brief
• consideration of the intended audience for the work.

Knowledge and understanding

Candidates will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
• appropriate materials, processes, technologies and resources
• how three-dimensional design can be used to communicate ideas
• the importance of social and cultural factors in the making, exhibiting and viewing of work
• relevant genres, styles and techniques used by artists and designers, past and present
• the importance of intention, research, realisation and reflection to the three-dimensional design process.

Digital photography as a means of recording and image making can be used for gathering and researching ideas but
images must be submitted as hard copies.

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

Textiles and fashion

Candidates should be encouraged to develop both their knowledge and skills in a broad range of media, processes
and techniques. They should demonstrate understanding of the development of designs for a textiles or fashion
outcome, working to a theme, starting point or brief and considering design constraints and problems. Candidates
should consider traditional, contemporary and emerging techniques and approaches.

Candidates should work in one or more of the following:

• fashion design and/or illustration
• costume design
• screen printing
• batik
• surface pattern.

Candidates will need to:

• carry out visual research, using directly observed (first-hand) and secondary sources, record observations,
experiences and ideas in appropriate ways to show clear evidence of the development of their ideas.
• explore and experiment with a wide range of different media, techniques and processes such as pencil, paint,
inks, marker pens, pastels, fabric swatches, recycled materials, samples, mock-ups and toiles, fabric dyeing,
printing and hand- and machine-embroidery.
• develop an understanding of material, trends, manufacturing, local crafts and cultural factors relating to
textiles and fashion, different types of fabric, manipulation and surface treatments.
• select, review and refine their work throughout the process to produce a personal and resolved response, which
may include fashion illustrations, hand-made costumes or contemporary textile designs.

Skills and techniques

Candidates will need to demonstrate the following skills and techniques:
• the ability to use appropriate materials and techniques to communicate their intention effectively
• an understanding of form, function and colour relationships within the design process
• the ability to create designs with consideration of texture, pattern and shape
• effective use of a few appropriate specialist working processes and equipment such as fabric construction,
dyeing and printing; screen and mono printing; batik; embroidery and machine stitching
• the ability to respond to a theme, starting point or brief
• consideration of the intended audience for the work.

Knowledge and understanding

Candidates will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
• appropriate materials, processes, technologies and resources
• how textiles and fashion design can be used to communicate ideas
• the importance of social and cultural factors in the making, exhibiting and viewing of work
• relevant textile and fashion genres, styles and techniques used by designers, past and present
• the importance of intention, research, realisation and reflection to the textile and fashion design process.

Digital photography as a means of recording and image making can be used for gathering and researching ideas but
images must be submitted as hard copies.

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

Photography
Candidates should be encouraged to develop both their knowledge of skills and processes relevant to photography.
Candidates should understand formal elements, animation, film or game design such as using narrative and
visual language to create meaning, and using composition and planning layouts. Drawing skills for animation
could include character development, background and storyboards. Candidates should be able to use appropriate
specialist technical language and support their creative work with technical notes and records.

All work submitted for this area of study must be in a hard-copy format.

Candidates should work in one or more of the following:

• traditional film photography
• digital photography
• camera-less photography
• animation: hand-drawn or computer-aided or a combination
• photomontage or photocollage.

Candidates will need to:

• carry out visual research, using direct observations (first-hand) and secondary sources, record observations,
experiences and ideas in appropriate ways to show clear evidence of the development of their ideas.
• explore and experiment with techniques relevant to photography such as depth of field, lighting and exposure,
aperture/shutter speed, angle and view-point/composition, framing and editing.
• explore and experiment with different photographic media and processes such as abstracting, documenting,
developing and printing of films, pin-hole camera, photograms, multiple exposure, photosensitive surfaces and
alternative print processes, image scanning and manipulation and digital manipulation.
• for animation, film and game design, explore relevant media and processes such as hand-drawn, stop motion
or digital animation. Work must be submitted as hard copy so the research, development and recording of their
ideas is more important than the finished outcome.
• select, review and refine their work throughout the process to produce a personal response.

Skills and techniques

Candidates will need to demonstrate the following skills and techniques:
• storyboarding and image-making through photography, model-making, drawing and/or illustration
• an understanding of the conventions of photography and genres such as portrait, landscape and documentary
• the ability to respond to a theme or brief
• consideration of the intended audience for the work.

Knowledge and understanding

Candidates will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
• different types and genres of photography and/or animation
• appropriate materials, processes, technologies and resources
• the importance of intention, research, realisation and reflection to the relevant processes
• a range of relevant artists, photographers or animators.

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.

4  Details of the assessment

All candidates take two components.

Component 1 – Coursework
Component 1 is compulsory in the June examination series. Candidates taking the November examination series
may choose Component 3 as an alternative. This is an internally set assignment which is marked by Cambridge
International. There is no question paper for this component.

There are two parts to this component:

• a portfolio and
• a final outcome.

Candidates can choose to work in any of the areas of study and should explore a theme, producing a portfolio of
work that leads to a resolved final outcome. The theme may be set by the teacher or candidates may choose their
own theme in consultation with their teacher. Candidates may, but do not have to, explore the same area of study
for their Externally Set Assignment.

First-hand studies from primary sources such as visits to local galleries, tourist attractions or areas of interest, or
contact with visiting speakers, local artists, designers or craftspeople should be included during the course where
possible.

Portfolio
The portfolio may be presented in a number of ways depending on the approach, for example:
• practical work with little annotation but including relevant sketches, photographs and prints
• practical work with some written analysis and annotation
• illustrated written analysis including practical work and photographs.

Candidates may, but do not have to, support their practical work with written analysis and research notes.
Candidates should carefully select work for their portfolio that shows they have:
• recorded ideas and observations from first-hand studies, such as their own drawings and photography, as well
as secondary imagery and sources
• developed ideas and explored and experimented with different media, techniques and processes
• made reference to contextual sources where appropriate, e.g. artists, key art movements, historical events or
local or national art, craft and design
• selected, reviewed and refined their ideas as work progresses to plan and produce a personal and coherent final
outcome.

The portfolio should contain work which shows the research, exploration, development and evaluation relevant to
the final outcome. The portfolio can be up to four sheets of A2. Candidates may use both sides of the paper. They
may work in any size or appropriate media but any work that is fragile, three-dimensional or larger than A2 must be
photographed. The photographs must be mounted on A2 and clearly labelled. This applies to both the portfolio and
the final outcome

Final outcome
The final outcome should be a resolved piece of work that demonstrates breadth and depth of exploration and
inquiry and it must be the candidate’s individual response.

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Candidates may work in any size or appropriate media but any work that is fragile, three-dimensional or larger than
A2 must be photographed. The prints must be mounted on A2 and clearly labelled.

Component 1 is marked against the assessment criteria at the end of this section. Cambridge International will
assess the portfolio and the final outcome together and award a single mark out of 100. Work for this component
must not be sent with Component 2.

Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment: Art

Component 2 is compulsory for all candidates. This is an externally set assignment which is marked by Cambridge
International. There is a question paper for this component. You may download the question paper from Cambridge
International and give it to candidates as soon as it is released. Refer to the Cambridge Handbook for the year of
examination for more information.

There are two parts to this component:

• supporting studies created during the preparation period and
• a final outcome, produced during a supervised test of 8 hours’ total duration.

Candidates can choose to work in any of the areas of study and should explore one starting point set by Cambridge
International. Candidates produce their supporting studies during the preparation period, after receipt of the paper
and before the supervised test.

Candidates explore and develop supporting studies in response to the starting point, producing work leading to a
final outcome that is produced during the supervised test.

Candidates may, but do not have to, explore the same area of study for Component 1.

The supporting studies must be taken into the supervised test in order to inform the final outcome. They should
show how the candidates have worked through artistic processes towards the assessment objectives. The final
outcome should show the results of this process.

Candidates should select supporting studies that show how they have:
• recorded ideas and observations from first-hand studies, such as their own drawings and photography, and
secondary imagery from books, magazines and the internet
• explored and experimented with different media, techniques and processes
• carried out relevant research into artists, designers and cultural influences related to their ideas
• selected, reviewed and refined their ideas as work progresses to plan and produce a personal and coherent final
outcome.

The supporting studies can be up to two sheets of A2. Candidates may use both sides of the paper. They may
work in any size or appropriate media. Any work that is fragile, three-dimensional or larger than A2 must be
photographed. The photographs must be mounted on A2 and clearly labelled. This applies to both the supporting
studies and the final outcome.

Component 2 is marked against the assessment criteria at the end of this section. Cambridge International will
assess both the supporting studies and the final outcome together and award a single mark out of 100. Work for
this component must not be sent with Component 1.

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Component 3 – Externally Set Assignment: Design

Component 3 is an optional component, available in the November examination series only.

This is an externally set assignment which is marked by Cambridge International. There is a question paper for this
component. You may download the question paper from Cambridge International and give it to candidates as soon
as it is released. Refer to the Cambridge Handbook for the year of examination for more information.

There are two parts to this component:

• supporting studies created during the preparation period and
• a final outcome, produced during a supervised test of 8 hours’ total duration.

Candidates can choose to work in any of the areas of study and should explore one starting point set by Cambridge
International. Candidates produce their supporting studies during the preparation period, after receipt of the paper
and before the supervised test.

Candidates explore and develop supporting studies in response to the starting point set by Cambridge International,
producing work leading to a final design outcome that is produced during the supervised test.

Candidates may, but do not have to, explore the same area of study for Component 2.

The supporting studies must be taken into the supervised test in order to inform the final outcome. They should
show how the candidates have worked through design processes towards the assessment objectives. The final
outcome should show the results of this process.

Candidates should select supporting studies that show how they have:
• recorded ideas and observations from first-hand studies, such as their own drawings and photography, and
secondary imagery from books, magazines and the internet
• explored and experimented with different media, techniques and processes
• carried out relevant research into artists, designers and cultural influences related to their ideas
• selected, reviewed and refined their ideas as work progresses to plan and produce a personal and coherent final
outcome based on the starting point on the question paper.

The supporting studies can be up to two sheets of A2. Candidates may use both sides of the paper. They may
work in any size or appropriate media. Any work that is fragile, three-dimensional or larger than A2 must be
photographed. The photographs must be mounted on A2 and clearly labelled. This applies to both the supporting
studies and the final outcome.

Component 3 is marked against the assessment criteria at the end of this section. Cambridge International will
assess both the supporting studies and the final outcome together and award a single mark out of 100. Work for
this component must not be sent with Component 2.

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Avoidance of plagiarism
Candidates must be taught the meaning and significance of plagiarism. Candidates should provide references for all
source materials used in their research.

The candidate is required to sign a declaration stating that the Coursework is their own work and you must
countersign to confirm that you believe the work is that of the candidate. The declaration of authenticity
form, and the instructions for completing the form, should be downloaded from the samples database at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples. The database will ask you for the syllabus code (i.e. 6090) and your
centre number, after which it will take you to the correct forms. Follow the instructions on the form. Further details
can be found in the Cambridge Handbook.

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Assessment criteria for Component 1, Component 2 and Component 3
AO1: Record ideas, observations AO2: Explore and select AO3: Develop ideas through AO4: Present a personal and
and insights relevant to intentions appropriate resources, media, investigation, demonstrating coherent response that realises
as work progresses materials, techniques and critical understanding intentions and demonstrates an
processes understanding of visual language
25 marks 25 marks 25 marks 25 marks
Excellent skill in recording Excellent exploration of media, Excellent development of ideas Excellent realisation of intentions,
observations from a variety of materials, techniques and processes, through investigation, demonstrating demonstrating effective
relevant sources, showing intentions showing effective selection of effective critical understanding understanding of visual language
effectively relevant resources
21–25 21–25 21–25 21–25

www.cambridgeinternational.org/olevel
Confident skill in recording Confident exploration of media, Confident development of ideas Confident realisation of intentions,
observations from a variety of materials, techniques and processes, through investigation, consistently consistently demonstrating
relevant sources, consistently consistently selecting relevant demonstrating critical understanding understanding of visual language
showing intentions resources
16–20 16–20 16–20 16–20
Competent skill in recording Competent exploration of media, Competent development of ideas Competent realisation of intentions,
observations from a variety of materials, techniques and processes, through investigation, demonstrating demonstrating clear understanding
Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

relevant sources, showing clear showing clear selection of relevant clear critical understanding of visual language
intentions resources
11–15 11–15 11–15 11–15
Satisfactory skill in recording Satisfactory exploration of media, Satisfactory development of ideas Satisfactory realisation of
observations from several relevant materials, techniques and processes, through investigation, demonstrating intentions, demonstrating some
sources, showing some intentions showing some selection of relevant some understanding understanding of visual language
resources
6–10 6–10 6–10 6–10
Limited skill in recording Limited exploration of media, Limited development of ideas Limited realisation of intentions,
observations from one or more materials, techniques and processes, through basic investigation demonstrating a basic understanding
sources, showing basic intentions showing basic selection of resources of visual language
1–5 1–5 1–5 1–5
No creditable response  0 No creditable response  0 No creditable response  0 No creditable response  0

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.

5  What else you need to know

This section is an overview of other information you need to know about this syllabus. It will help to share the
administrative information with your exams officer so they know when you will need their support. Find more
information about our administrative processes at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Before you start

Previous study
We do not expect learners starting this course to have previously studied Art & Design.

Guided learning hours

We design Cambridge O Level syllabuses based on learners having about 130 guided learning hours for each subject
during the course but this is for guidance only. The number of hours a learner needs to achieve the qualification
may vary according to local practice and their previous experience of the subject.

Availability and timetables

All Cambridge schools are allocated to one of six administrative zones. Each zone has a specific timetable.

Cambridge O Levels are available to centres in administrative zones 3, 4 and 5.

The availability of this syllabus is restricted, you should check it is available in your administrative zone prior to the
start of study.

You can enter candidates in the June and November exam series. You can view the timetable for your
administrative zone at www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables

Check you are using the syllabus for the year the candidate is taking the exam.

This syllabus is not available to private candidates. For more information, please refer to the Cambridge Guide to
Making Entries.

Combining with other syllabuses

Candidates can take this syllabus alongside other Cambridge International syllabuses in a single exam series.
The only exceptions are:
• Cambridge IGCSE™ Art & Design (0400)
• syllabuses with the same title at the same level.

Cambridge O Level, Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) syllabuses are at the same level.

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  What else you need to know

Making entries
Exams officers are responsible for submitting entries to Cambridge International. We encourage them to work
closely with you to make sure they enter the right number of candidates for the right combination of syllabus
components. Entry option codes and instructions for submitting entries are in the Cambridge Guide to Making
Entries. Your exams officer has a copy of this guide.

Exam administration
To keep our exams secure, we produce question papers for different areas of the world, known as administrative
zones. We allocate all Cambridge schools to one administrative zone determined by their location. Each zone has
a specific timetable. Some of our syllabuses offer candidates different assessment options. An entry option code
is used to identify the components the candidate will take relevant to the administrative zone and the available
assessment options.

Support for exams officers

We know how important exams officers are to the successful running of exams. We provide them with the support
they need to make your entries on time. Your exams officer will find this support, and guidance for all other phases
of the Cambridge Exams Cycle, at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Retakes and carrying forward marks

Candidates can retake the whole qualification as many times as they want to. Information on retake entries is at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/entries

Candidates cannot resubmit, in whole or in part, coursework from a previous series. To confirm if an option is
available to carry forward marks for this syllabus, refer to the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries for the relevant
series. Regulations for carrying forward internally assessed marks can be found in the Cambridge Handbook for the
relevant year at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Equality and inclusion

We have taken great care to avoid bias of any kind in the preparation of this syllabus and related assessment
materials. In our effort to comply with the UK Equality Act (2010) we have taken all reasonable steps to avoid any
direct and indirect discrimination.

The standard assessment arrangements may present barriers for candidates with impairments. Where a candidate
is eligible, we may be able to make arrangements to enable that candidate to access assessments and receive
recognition of their attainment. We do not agree access arrangements if they give candidates an unfair advantage
over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.

Candidates who cannot access the assessment of any component may be able to receive an award based on the
parts of the assessment they have completed.

Information on access arrangements is in the Cambridge Handbook at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Language
This syllabus and the related assessment materials are available in English only.

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 Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  What else you need to know

After the exam

Grading and reporting
Grades A*, A, B, C, D or E indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge O Level.

A* is the highest and E is the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ means that the candidate’s performance did not meet the
standard required for grade E. ‘Ungraded’ is reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate.

In specific circumstances your candidates may see one of the following letters on their statement of results:
• Q (PENDING)
• X (NO RESULT).
These letters do not appear on the certificate.

On the statement of results and certificates, Cambridge O Level is shown as GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF
EDUCATION (GCE O LEVEL).

How students and teachers can use the grades

Assessment at Cambridge O Level has two purposes:
• to measure learning and achievement
The assessment:
– confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and skills specified in
the syllabus, to the levels described in the grade descriptions.
• to show likely future success
The outcomes:
– help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or which students are
more likely to be successful
– help students choose the most suitable course or career.

Grade descriptions
Grade descriptions are provided to give an indication of the standards of achievement candidates awarded
particular grades are likely to show. Weakness in one aspect of the examination may be balanced by a better
performance in some other aspect.

Grade descriptions for Cambridge O Level Art & Design will be published after the first assessment of the syllabus
in 2023. Find more information at www.cambridgeinternational.org/6090

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Cambridge O Level Art & Design 6090 syllabus for 2023.  What else you need to know

Changes to this syllabus for 2023

The syllabus has been reviewed and revised for first examination in 2023.

You must read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.

Changes to syllabus content • Candidates may work in one or more areas of study.
• Candidates may, in consultation with their teacher, set their own
theme for Component 1: Coursework.
• Section 3 Subject content has been revised.
• The subject content remains the same but has been reworded and
reorganised. Further details of the requirements have been added for
clarification.
• The introduction to the areas of study has been expanded to clarify
skills and understanding common to all areas of study.
• The areas of study have been reordered and renamed to provide
clearer progression to corresponding areas of study at AS and A Level.
• Printmaking is no longer included as a unique area of study; however,
candidates may still present printmaking as a technique within other
areas (such as Painting and related media, Graphic communication
and Textiles and fashion).
• The presentation of each area of study has been revised and
standardised for ease of reference and for consistency with the
AS & A Level 9479 Art & Design syllabus, with clear signposting of the
skills, techniques, knowledge and understanding that candidates are
expected to demonstrate.
• The curriculum content for each area of study has been rebalanced to
ensure that all areas are given equal coverage and include the same
number of different media (five).
• The photography area of study has been updated to provide clearer
progression to corresponding areas of study in the AS & A Level Digital
Media and Design syllabus.
• A statement has been added to clarify that work for each area of study
must be submitted as hard copy.
Changes to availability This syllabus is not available to private candidates.

Significant changes to the syllabus are indicated by black vertical lines either side of the text.

In addition to reading the syllabus, you should refer to the updated specimen assessment materials. The specimen
papers will help your students become familiar with exam requirements and command words in questions. The
specimen mark schemes explain how students should answer questions to meet the assessment objectives.

Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2023 are suitable for use with
this syllabus.

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including missing text alternatives and missing document structure. If you need this document in a different format contact us at
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