Design Technology

Y11 Revision materials 2008 GCSE Resistant Materials

2008 spreadsheet (word document)

Key stage 3

At key stage 3 in Design technology students are taught to explore and develop ideas through a range of design and make projects. They learn to develop, plan and communicate ideas visually. Produce practical outcomes working with tools, equipment, materials and components to make quality products. Students evaluate the design process and products on an individual basis and in-group work. Workings through a range of projects students gain knowledge and understanding of materials and components, which help to finalise design ideas.

What do we study?

Year7 Dice pencil holder, Acrylic photo frame, Acrylic key tag, graphics, Electronics, Awards project and a basic introduction to CAD/CAM (vinyl).

Year8 Levers & Linkages, Electronics, Graphics, Fridge magnet and packaging, CAD/CAM photo frame, Letter rack.

Year9 Batch production (peg game), Structures, Electronics, Graphics, Frosted Glass, CAD/CAM pen, Mechanisms, Control (CLC visit).

As students progress through key stage 3 projects are designed to build upon previously gained knowledge and stretch their understanding and creative abilities.

Key stage 4

At key stage 4 we offer 2 GCSE course: Graphics and Resistant Materials following the AQA syllabus and BTEC First Diploma in Construction

AQA GCSE courses
Both courses are split into coursework and a final written exam.

2 Tiers
A*- C Higher paper Coursework 60%
C-G Foundation paper Written exam 40%

GCSE Resistant Materials AQA
In this course students carryout designing and making activities using wood, metal and plastics. In year 10 students work through 3 mini projects gaining an understanding of research and design aspects and then, acquiring skills and understanding of various practical activities they produce a final product for each project.
In year 11 students are given a number of tasks from which they select one to form the basis of their major project. This accounts for 60% of their GCSE final grade.

After the major coursework has been completed, detailed revision lessons are provided leading up to the summer exam.

GCSE Graphic products AQA
Graphic Products is concerned with visual imagery and the production of 3 dimensional outcomes using compliant materials. Students are expected to develop and demonstrate a wide range of graphical techniques to create, develop and communicate ideas. In year 10, 3 mini projects are studied to build upon knowledge and understanding.
In year 11, 1 task is selected and a design folder and 3D product produced for the major coursework project.
After the major coursework project has been completed, detailed revision lessons are provided leading up to the summer exam.

BTEC First Diploma in Construction

The BTEC First Diploma is a practical, work-related course. Students complete projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations and activities. It provides a good basis to expand upon for wrok-related qualifications in the construction industry.

A BTEC First Diploma id equivalent to four GCSEs grades A*-C and is taken as a full-time course.

All students take three core units: