CIE AS & A Level Art & Design (9479) Past Papers

Why Art & Design A Level Past Papers Matter

Art & Design students focus heavily on practical work, but assessment also depends on how well ideas are recorded, refined, and presented. Past papers help you:

• Understand how Cambridge frames themes and starting points
• Learn how to structure a sketchbook with a clear creative journey
• See examples of responses to broad or conceptual prompts
• Identify what examiners look for in research and experimentation

Since Art & Design tasks are open-ended, reviewing previous prompts helps you anticipate the types of themes you may explore.

What You’ll Find in Past Paper Resources

• Question papers with project themes and prompts
• Assessment criteria and marking schemes
• Examiner reports explaining candidate strengths and weaknesses
• Updated syllabus files for accurate component requirements

These resources help you understand what to create and how to present it to meet Cambridge’s standards.

How to Use Art & Design Past Papers Effectively

1. Review past themes — Explore previous prompts and brainstorm multiple interpretations to build creative flexibility.
2. Practice quick idea generation — Set a 10–15 minute timer and sketch several concepts for one theme.
3. Replicate exam structure — Follow the journey: investigation → development → refinement → outcome.
4. Study examiner feedback — Use examiner reports to understand why top submissions scored well.
5. Build a reference folder — Save inspiring artworks, past themes, and ideas to guide your projects.

This approach helps you plan and develop work more effectively.

Overview of the CIE Art & Design (9479) Syllabus

The 9479 syllabus focuses on building creative, analytical, and observational skills across multiple disciplines, including:

• Drawing and painting
• Graphic communication
• Photography
• Textile design
• Sculpture and 3D studies
• Digital and mixed media

Students must show experimentation, observation, analysis, and a personal creative response. Past papers make it easier to understand how these skills appear in high-scoring submissions.

Tips for Scoring Higher in Art & Design

• Document every stage of your creative process
• Explore multiple media before finalizing your outcome
• Annotate clearly and explain your decisions
• Show influence from relevant artists or designers
• Present final work neatly and professionally

Build Confidence with Consistent Practice

Using CIE AS & A Level Art & Design (9479) past papers helps you understand exam structure and expectations. The more familiar you are with previous project prompts, the easier it becomes to generate strong ideas and refine them into polished outcomes.

Start exploring past papers today and develop a creative workflow that helps you excel in your final assessment.