The design portfolio overview: SQA Advanced Higher Art and Design
A guide to the SQA Advanced Higher Art and Design (Design) practical portfolio: a self-directed response to a design brief worth 64 marks. Covers working from a design problem and research through idea generation and development to a resolved solution, and how to evidence it across the A1 sheets.
Reviewed by: AI editorial process; not yet individually human-reviewed
This guide gives the shape of the Advanced Higher Art and Design (Design) practical portfolio so you know what the 64 marks reward before you start. The dot point takes the design process from brief to resolved solution in detail.
What it is
A self-directed response to a design brief, worth 64 marks, the largest single source of marks in the course. The work answers a brief with a functional or communicative purpose (graphics, product, fashion or textile, interior, jewellery design).
The process it must show
From a brief or problem with constraints, through research, idea generation and investigation and development, to a resolved solution that answers the brief. The markers look for visible idea generation and development, not just a finished design, and the work must stay anchored to the brief throughout.
How to evidence it
Across the 6 to 12 A1 sheets, show the brief, research, range of ideas, development and resolved solution in a coherent sequence, always tied back to the brief and the user. Three-dimensional, photographic or digital design work has specific SQA submission advice, so check it for your discipline.
How to use this module
Define the brief, research the problem, generate a range of ideas, investigate and develop the strongest, and resolve a solution that answers the brief, sequencing the sheets so the process reads clearly. Always work from the current SQA course specification and submission guidance.