Product design
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/design-and-technology/gcse/design-and-technology-product-design-4555
60% controlled assessment – design and make practice
40% written paper – theory & design
Design and Technology is a practical subject area which requires the application of knowledge and understanding when developing ideas, planning, producing products and evaluating them. The coursework takes the form of an individual design and make task based on design briefs set by the exam board. Students are encouraged to work independently using a range of design, make skills to produce an original product using resistant materials such as wood and plastic. They will analyse and evaluate their work as they go along. The work is submitted as an e portfolio and accompanying product.
The exam is theory based with a design element; it covers the following topics which will be taught throughout years 10 and 11:
- Classification and working properties of materials
- Paper/card, Timber based materials, Ferrous and non ferrous metals, Ceramics, plastics and textiles
- Smart and technical materials
- Manipulating and Combining Materials
- Evolution of Product Design
- Design Methodology
- Packaging
- Product marketing
- Ethical, Environmental and Sustainability Issues
- Design in the Human Context
- Industrial and Commercial Practice
- Use of ICT (Information and Communication Technology)
