D&T GCSE; The structure of the GCSE course is to ensure there is an even split of theory and practical to mirror the GCSE requirements. Learners will study the core theory content once a fortnight, along with core specialisms skills once a fortnight building skills that will feed into their next project. Project based practical will cover the remaining two sessions a fortnight. 

Graphics will build on their previous knowledge and work on a variety of projects that will enable them to work independently on their coursework in year 11. Learners will be using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, tinker CAD and 2D design design programs to render their ideas.

Learners will start in Graphics working towards completing models using CAD/CAM for a perfume/games controller project. Learners will then build on knowledge of nets and manufacturing using Adobe Illustrator for a rebranding project called ‘Colchester Zoo’. These two projects have been designed to incorporate skills from all projects in year 9 to help learners work more independently on projects making individualised design choices.

Designing products & manufacturing processes 

The deadlines will be shared with learners via the project timelines and within learning sessions. At the end of each project there will be an end of unit test. Work will be marked using GCSE criteria in preparation for their mock coursework piece. Projects will also have their own success criteria and mark scheme and will be marked officially at the end, we will give learners time to re-draft before this deadline and after guidance and feedback is given.

Learners will receive guidance in a variety of ways. These include mid-point marking for their project work, with feedback and guidance, to help with their re-drafting, a final mark against the success criteria for the projects. New skills are taught through group demonstrations and small focused re-caps to allow for us to address any mis-conceptions. There are PPT’s created for each project, skill development etc so learners can revisit these at any time Teachers are constantly circulating the room during practicals and will be constantly giving verbal guidance and feedback to all learners. 

Branding, Client, Commercial process, Commercial product, Conceptual stages (of design), Continuous improvement, Design Specification, Engineering Drawings, Ergonomics, Finishes, Iterative Design,  Market Research, Product Analysis, Prototype, Properties,  Printing Techniques, Standard Components, Stock Forms, Tolerance, Working Drawings.