Design and Technology

Middle School Design & Technology

In Grades 6, 7, and 8, students in Design & Technology embark on a comprehensive journey that connects them to the world around them through innovative and meaningful design. This course introduces students to a diverse range of concepts, encouraging them to consider their place in the world and how they can impact it through thoughtful design. Throughout these formative years, students develop a broad spectrum of design-oriented skills that prepare them for high school and beyond. They engage in hands-on projects that challenge them to think critically and creatively, applying their knowledge to real-world problems. From understanding the basics of design principles to mastering more advanced techniques, students build a solid foundation that equips them with the tools needed for future success in various fields.

In Grades 6 and 7, students are introduced to fundamental concepts such as the design process, materials, and tools. They explore how design influences everyday life and begin to develop the technical skills needed to bring their ideas to life. Collaborative projects encourage teamwork, communication, and the sharing of ideas, while individual tasks foster independent thinking and personal responsibility. By Grade 8, students are ready to tackle more complex challenges. They delve deeper into the relationship between design and society, considering ethical and sustainable practices. Their projects become more sophisticated, requiring a higher level of critical thinking and problem-solving. Throughout this process, students continue to work both independently and in small teams, refining their ability to collaborate effectively while also developing confidence in their unique design perspectives.

Ultimately, the Design & Technology curriculum in Grades 6, 7, and 8 is designed to inspire and empower students. It nurtures their ability to think creatively, solve problems, and communicate ideas—skills that will serve them well in high school, future careers, and as global citizens.The Design and Technology course intends to challenge all students to apply practical and creative thinking skills to solve problems in technology and to raise students’ awareness of their responsibilities as world citizens when making decisions and taking action on technology issues.

Course Content

Grade 6 Units of Learning

The Grade 6 Design & Technology course introduces students to a variety of design disciplines, including Product Design, Digital Design, and Food & Nutrition. This foundational year focuses on building practical skills while also exploring key concepts such as sustainability, healthy lifestyles, and the influence of design movements.

Students develop a broad skill set essential for young designers. They learn to generate and ideate ideas creatively, turning concepts into tangible solutions. In Product Design, they gain hands-on experience with manufacturing processes and hand tools, learning to create physical products. They also explore CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), acquiring technical skills for digital design and prototyping.

In Digital Design, students are introduced to block coding, learning the basics of programming in a visual and intuitive way. Formal drawing and communication techniques are emphasized, helping students convey ideas clearly through sketches, diagrams, and presentations.

By the end of Grade 6, students will have a solid foundation in essential Design & Technology skills, preparing them for more advanced work in later grades. This course equips them with practical abilities and encourages critical thinking about the role of design in shaping our world.

Grade 7 Units of Learning

Grade 7 Design & Technology builds on the foundation from Grade 6, continuing to explore disciplines like Product Design, Digital Design, and Food & Nutrition. While still skills-focused, this year introduces more concept-based learning, including sustainable design, health & nutrition, innovation, and computational thinking.

Students enhance their idea generation and learn the importance of innovating and iterating designs. In Product Design, they advance in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), including 3D printing.

In Digital Design, students deepen their block coding knowledge and explore robotics, gaining skills in programming and automation. In Food & Nutrition, they practice meal planning using nutritional tools, linking theoretical concepts with practical tasks.

By the end of Grade 7, students will have strengthened their practical skills and understanding of design concepts, preparing them for more advanced challenges in Grade 8 and beyond. This course encourages critical thinking, innovation, and effective problem-solving in design projects.

Grade 8 Units of Learning

Grade 8 Design & Technology builds on the foundations of Grade 7, continuing to explore a variety of design-oriented disciplines, including Product Design, Systems Thinking, and Food & Nutrition. This year, students delve deeper into concept-based learning, investigating themes such as inclusive design, minimalism, cultural influences, sustainable food choices, and empathy.

Throughout the course, students develop skills in prototyping and iteration, learning the importance of refining and improving their designs. They also enhance their research abilities, understanding how thorough investigation impacts design outcomes and leads to successful product development.
In Product Design, students advance their proficiency in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), utilising 3D printing and laser cutting to create precise and innovative prototypes. The course also emphasises Systems Thinking, helping students understand how interconnected systems influence design and fostering a holistic approach to problem-solving.
In Food & Nutrition, students focus on meal planning using nutritional tools, with a strong emphasis on meeting sustainable food goals.
Grade 8 places a strong focus on the design process, ensuring that students are well-prepared for high school and beyond. The course nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and a thoughtful approach to design, considering cultural, environmental, and ethical factors.

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