Course Features

• Design and Technology is an important A level due to the variety of problem solving, team work and independent tasks that make up both the coursework element and the exam. Studying Product Design gives students the broad theoretical knowledge and practical skillset needed to use production methods and materials creatively. Students are able to explore who they are as a designer and the areas that most appeal to them, ranging from designers to materials and production techniques.

• The subject builds on the skills from GCSE and gives students the option to find their own pathway in the numerous aspects of the subject. Product Design opens to door to a huge variety of career options. The skills developed help with any career linked with creativity, project management, communication, higher level thinking and problem solving. These skills are multi-disciplinary and transferable to a wide range of career pathways making this subject a very attractive option.

Assessment

Component 1: Design and Technology in the 21st Century. Written examination: 3 hours

50% of qualification.

The theory papers will include open and short-ended questions as well as extended writing questions testing the students’ knowledge of materials, product analysis, health and safety, the wider impacts of design and industrial and commercial practice. The theory papers will also include a 15% mathematical element.

Component 2: Design and make project

Non-exam assessment: approximately 80 hours

50% of qualification

Students respond to a choice of stimuli provided by EDUQAS. Students will develop a range of practical work based on a chosen idea, issue, concept or theme leading to one or more finished outcomes.

An in-depth portfolio will then support investigations, developments and findings. This will be in addition to the usual annotation expected in sketchbooks.