Aims

• 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 decisions 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.

Course Content

GCSE Design and Technology will prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences on Design and Technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise.

The GCSE allows students to study core technical and designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles (particularly pertaining to wood) in greater depth.

Assessment Structure

• Coursework known as NEA - 50%

• Written examination - 50% 

Exam (2hrs) covers:

Section A – Core technical principles (20 marks)

A mixture of multiple choice and short answer questions assessing a breadth of technical knowledge and understanding.

Section B – Specialist technical principles (30 marks)

Several short answer questions (2–5 marks) and one extended response to assess a more in depth knowledge of technical principles.

Section C – Designing and making principles (50 marks)

A mixture of short answer and extended response questions.

You need to

• Enjoy designing and practical activities.

• Be able to organise yourself well and be responsible for your own learning.

• Be prepared to put in extra time outside of lessons.

• Be adaptable to different styles of learning, theory and practical.

For further details, see Mr Hassett (Head of Technology)