Visual Art Paper 2 (Essay) May/June 2015

Candidates' Weaknesses

The following weaknesses were noticeable among the candidate:

  1. Inadequate knowledge of art history

Candidates’ knowledge in art history remained insufficient. This manifested in their poor responses to questions 3, 4, 5, 6, which dealt with issues in West African traditional and contemporary art as well as questions 7 and 8 which focused on Greek and Pre-Historic art.
(2)   Violation of Rubrics
Some candidates violated the clearly stated rubrics of the paper by answering more questions than required from each part of the paper.
(3)   Irrational presentation of points
Candidates as usual, found it difficult to organise their points coherently. In most cases, responses were disorganised without any form of coherence. This is usually the case when candidates are ill prepared for an examination.
(4)   Inappropriate use of answer booklet
The use of answer booklet by some candidates was also poor. These candidates wrote their responses to the same question on different pages without any indication of such. Some others also answered two or more questions on the same page. The acceptable practice is for candidates to answer a fresh question on a new page in the answer booklet.


        SUGGESTED REMEDIES TO CANDIDATES’ WEAKNESSES


The following are some of the actions necessary in tackling the identified weaknesses:
(1)        Improved Knowledge of art history
There is a common mistake that competence in art revolve merely around practical skill in drawing and painting. It should however be noted that art history is as important as the practical aspects since it has always been important for visual artists to understand and be able to give a rational expression of the content and context (background) of their art forms. In view of this, it is only appropriate for teachers and students to sufficiently combine the knowledge of these areas with the practical components. Candidates
should read books on art history along with their practice in drawing and painting.
(2)        Improved understanding of English Language
Candidates should make effort to improve their understanding and use of the English Language. This will enable them to comprehend the requirements of questions, as it will also facilitate coherent expression and presentation of points. They can approach this by devoting quality time to reading books, novels, journals, etc.
(3)        Appropriate orientation on examination ethics
Candidates should strive to acquire proper orientation on examination ethics. This is especially necessary in the use of answer booklets. The standard in WASSCE and other public examinations is for candidates to avoid muddling two or more answers on a single page.