Design Technology – Product Design
What will I study?
The study of design and technology seeks to prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world; and be aware of, and learn from, wider influences on design and technology, including historical, social/cultural, environmental and economic factors. In Design & Technology you will be expected to create prototypes both physical as well as through CAD to test and develop your ideas and design at least one product by undertaking an iterative design, make and evaluate project based on a set design brief. When completing their project students will apply the designing and making principles and their technical knowledge and understanding (Including understanding of Maths & Science).
Some Projects we will study include:
- Structures and Forces
- Ergonomics & Anthropometrics
- Design and Make (Wood, Metals & Plastics)
- Sketching and Designing including marker rendering
- CAD 2D: Photoshop, Coreldraw
- CAD 3D: Sketchup and Creo engineering modelling software
- CAD/CAM: Laser Cutting & 3D printing
- Designers in History and Design Styles.
How will my work be assessed?
You will be expected to create a range of practical, research and design assessments; all of which you will be assessed upon. Your knowledge and understanding will be assessed as part of written assessments—this element will bear a larger weighting in the reformed GCSE.
How will it help me after I leave school?
If you are looking towards a career in the creative, design, construction and engineering industries then this is the course for you. With this course completed at GCSE, you can easily progress straight onto an A Level in Product Design, engineering and then onto a Degree or Foundation course at college. Careers include product design, graphics, interior design, web design, construction, engineering, fashion, retail, teaching and education. The course is divided into 2 units:
Unit 1 (50%) is a design exam at the end of the course where you will need to demonstrate your ability to think creatively to solve problems applying your knowledge and understanding of materials and industrial processes.
Unit 2 (50%) is the controlled assessment (coursework) where you will design and make a product of your choice and its accompanying promotional material.
This course cannot be taken with Design Technology Textiles.
Contact: Mr. Kinsella, Subject Leader for Design Technology
