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RICH PICTURE

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Below is a simple diagram, with the main theme in the centre and words linked to the theme, arranged around it. If you add drawings/pictures to most of the words then the diagram becomes a ‘rich picture’.

A ‘Rich Picture’ is the first stage in the design process. When you start designing, the theme is placed in the centre of the page and link words are positioned around it. This can be seen on the example above, a rich picture for the theme Clock Design. These link words should be related to the centre theme and they will help you think of points that you must consider when trying to solve the design problem.
For example, the word ‘materials’ may prompt you to consider different woods, metals and plastics that could be useful when trying to work out the best materials for your solution. In this way you should write as many words as possible around the theme but only if they have some link. A rich picture must also have pictures or diagrams to give a good, clear, visual effect. Without them it is a diagram.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The rich picture shown below has been produced for a project based on an educational toy / game.
1. A simple but effective border / title block has been drawn on the paper. This must be completed first so that it can be photocopied several times. This means that you will have several ‘blanks’ for use with following design sheets.
2. The main theme (EDUCATIONAL TOY) is clearly displayed in the centre of the paper. You may wish to write your theme in an imaginative style, adding appropriate shade and colour.
3. The ‘link’ words are placed around the main theme and written accurately between very faint guidelines. The guidelines are important as they ensure the printing is accurate and make it easy for the examiner to read your information. If you do not use guidelines, you may drop an examination grade for this sheet.
4. Some of the ‘link’ words also have words arranged around them. This allows more detail to be placed on the design sheet. Doing this may increase your grade as examiners expect to see plenty of detail and it shows that you have thought very carefully about the project. Look at the link word ‘materials’, this has several words arranged around it.
5. Add pictures to many of the link words - you do not have to add pictures for every word. The example shown opposite has very few drawings but it gained a good grade because it is very well presented and quality colour / shade has been added.
6. Do not overcrowd the page but at the same time ensure that you have included plenty of detail.

SUGGESTIONS:
A. Begin by drawing / sketching a rough version of your rich picture. This will help you plan the layout and content of your design sheet. Do not try to complete your rich picture straightaway.
B. Do not copy ideas regarding the layout from other pupils. This could be regarded as ‘cheating’ by the examiner. Look at the work of other pupils and adapt rather than copy.
C. Use you imagination and be prepared to spend time on your work.
D. Ask the teacher for advice and look at completed projects for inspiration.
E. Complete your homework on time. Do not fall behind as you may find it impossible to catch up.

CLICK HERE FOR RICH PICTURE EXERCISE / LESSON STARTER

Draw a rich picture to represent a theme of your choice. You may select a theme that relates to a design or practical project you are currently attempting.

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