What will students study in Design and Technology this year?

Year 9

During the Year 9 Design and Technology course students build on their knowledge and understanding from the KS3 course.  Students are able to develop their practical skills using a range of materials and techniques.  Students will complete a Graphics design and make task to create a pop-up book using a range of different mechanisms based on a theme of their choice at the same time as learning about papers and boards and the environment.  They will also learn how to waste, shape and decorate metals such as copper and pewter. Year 9 students also have the opportunity to learn about polymers through a range of theory and short design and make tasks that include CAD/CAM

Year 10

Students will continue to study the core technical principles and will focus their in-depth knowledge on Textiles and Wood and Man-made boards. Students will continue to analyse existing products and explore the inclusivity and ethics of design. Prior to the 35-hour NEA task, students develop their understanding of materials, processes, mechanisms and systems by designing a fully operational product through a ‘mock’ coursework.  The theme for this coursework is Lighting and Sustainability. Students can work across any of the materials areas as their product’s design dictates. They produce an A3 portfolio documenting all aspects of their progress, including the consideration of the marketing of their product.  Students will need to document all evidence of their making via the use of photographs and annotated drawings.

Eduqas will release the theme for the NEA task at the beginning of June allowing students to commence their coursework task before the summer holidays. 

Year 11

Students continue their Eduqas NEA task into Year 11, communicating, prototyping and presenting their ideas manually and via computer using 2D Design and Photoshop. They apply their understanding of the properties of materials to plan the manufacture their products with industrial standard working drawings and incorporate CAD/CAM using the laser cutter and use an extensive range of workshop tools and equipment to develop a fully functioning three-dimensional product. [35 hrs and 50% of the total GCSE].  Students can work across any of the materials areas as their product’s design dictates.

Students will continue to learn about Design and Technology in the 21^st Century in preparation for the summer series 2 hour written exam. 

What are the major assessments this year?

Each half-term students will complete a mini assessment using exam style questions. Students will set their own targets based on peer and teacher feedback, improving on these in the next project. Students will also be assessed on their practical technical ability and should demonstrate development, progression and resilience within their work.

What do assessments test?

Assessments are designed to assess knowledge and understanding of the subjects taught.  Students will also be assessed on their practical skills using the Eduqas specification exam board grading criteria in both written and practical assessments.  The assessment objectives are:

AO1 Identify, investigate and outline design possibilities to address needs and wants

AO2 Design and make prototypes that are fit for purpose

AO3 Analyse and evaluate:

• design decision and outcomes including for prototypes made by themselves and others
• wider issues in design and technology
• AO4 Demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of:
• technical principles
• designing and making principles

What are the expectations of students in Design and Technology?

We expect that all students should write a production diary after every practical session.  The production diary is an essential aid when writing up the NEA task. We expect that students follow all instructions given including health and safety rules.  A variety of homework will be set and all deadlines must be met.  Students must be well-prepared for each lesson.  If a student has any problems with their work they must speak to their subject teacher at least the day before their lesson. 

What should my daughter do if she feels she is struggling in Design and Technology?

In the first instance, they should speak to her subject teacher who will help to identify specific areas for improvement in the subject with targeted support.

How can I best support my daughter in Design and Technology?

The best way to provide general support is by discussing their work in the subject and how things are going. If you can access the CAD programs Techsoft 2D Design, Google Sketch UP, or Adobe Photoshop and encourage your daughter to develop her computer aided design skills by working through the free trials, she will increase her confidence and develop her original ideas. Visiting exhibitions and galleries such as the Design Museum, the V&A, and Science Museum will support the research section of the Controlled Assessment. For any clarification of key knowledge and revision use the websites:

 www.technologystudent.com

and

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zdvb2sg . It would be helpful if students can get involved in after school sessions and any design and make or DIY projects around the home.

Whom should I contact for further advice or information?

Please contact the Head of Design and Technology, Mrs Pearce, bpearce@carshaltongirls.org.uk with as much detailed information as possible