Packaging Design

    OCR
    GCSE

    Candidates must demonstrate the iterative development of packaging solutions, moving from initial 2D net construction to resolved 3D prototypes (AO2). Responses should evidence critical understanding of typography, colour theory, and composition applied to three-dimensional surfaces (AO1). Credit work that successfully integrates functional requirements—protection, stacking, and opening mechanisms—with a coherent brand identity that appeals to a specific target demographic (AO4). High-scoring responses will explicitly address sustainability and material properties.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
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    Pitfalls
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    Key Terms
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    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Award marks for the rigorous investigation of existing packaging solutions, specifically analyzing construction methods, sustainability, and material properties (AO1).
    • Credit the iterative refinement of typography and layout hierarchy, showing purposeful experimentation with digital and manual processes (AO2).
    • Candidates must record the development of the 3D form through photographic evidence of mock-ups, prototypes, and net testing (AO3).
    • Final outcomes must demonstrate high technical competence in realization, specifically precision in scoring, folding, and adhesion to create a professional finish (AO4).

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "Your surface graphics are visually strong; however, the structural integrity of the packaging requires refinement—experiment with heavier weight card stock."
    • "You have described the competitor's design; to access higher marks, analyse *how* their color palette manipulates the target audience."
    • "Typography is currently treated as a label; integrate the text as a core visual element within the composition to enhance the brand identity."
    • "Excellent final outcome, but your portfolio lacks evidence of the 'design journey'—include photographs of your initial paper prototypes and testing."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award marks for the rigorous investigation of existing packaging solutions, specifically analyzing construction methods, sustainability, and material properties (AO1).
    • Credit the iterative refinement of typography and layout hierarchy, showing purposeful experimentation with digital and manual processes (AO2).
    • Candidates must record the development of the 3D form through photographic evidence of mock-ups, prototypes, and net testing (AO3).
    • Final outcomes must demonstrate high technical competence in realization, specifically precision in scoring, folding, and adhesion to create a professional finish (AO4).

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Produce low-fidelity paper mock-ups early to test scale, volume, and closure mechanisms before applying high-fidelity graphics.
    • 💡Explicitly reference the influence of specific designers or design movements (e.g., Bauhaus, Pop Art) in the evolution of the brand identity.
    • 💡Photograph the physical construction process to evidence technical skill, as the final assembled piece may obscure internal mechanics.
    • 💡Ensure annotations go beyond description to explain the 'why' behind material choices, linking directly to sustainability or cost constraints.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Focusing exclusively on surface decoration while neglecting the structural integrity or functionality of the net.
    • Reliance on secondary internet imagery without engaging in primary analysis of physical packaging samples.
    • Treating typography as an afterthought rather than an integral compositional element, often resulting in poor legibility or inappropriate font choices.
    • Submitting a final outcome without the supporting portfolio evidence of the iterative design cycle and failed prototypes.

    Study Guide Available

    Comprehensive revision notes & examples

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    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Structural Integrity and Net Construction (Dielines)
    Visual Hierarchy and Typography in 3D Space
    Material Sustainability and Environmental Impact
    Brand Identity and Target Audience Profiling

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Develop
    Investigate
    Refine
    Record
    Present
    Realise
    Explore

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