Course aims
The specification has been designed to encourage candidates to take a broad view of design and technology, to develop their capacity to design and make products and to appreciate the complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing.
Entry requirements
You will require a grade 6 in mathematics and any one of the following subjects at grade 6: science, product design, resistant materials or graphics, in addition to the general entry requirements.
Course content
Unit 1 – Materials, components and application
Section A: Materials and components: natural woods, man-made boards, laminates and veneers, ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, alloys, polymers, biodegradable polymers, elastomers, composites, compliant materials, smart materials, modern materials, product components and adhesives.
Section B: Design and market influences: Environmental/ sustainability issues, ergonomics and anthropometrics, inclusive design and consumer safety.
Section C: Processes and manufacture: Fabrication methods, forming methods, redistribution methods, wasting processes, CAM processing, finishing materials and processes, health and safety and quality control.
Unit 2 – Learning through designing and making
This is a design-and-make unit where knowledge of the subject content is applied to the design and making of the candidate’s own projects.
Unit 3 – Design and manufacture
- Section A: Materials and components
- Section B: Design and market influences
- Section C: Processes and manufacture.
Unit 4 – Design and making practice
This is a design-and-make unit where knowledge of the subject content is applied to the design and making of the candidates’ own projects.
The 2nd Year NEA Design Project is a chance to design a client/based product which the student investigates a problem and designs and makes a prototype model. Where possible the materials will be provided but each student will need to work to a budget and contribute to additional costs if required.
Course assessment
Exam and coursework
Materials
Textbooks to be provided by Dudley Sixth.
Progress
Higher Education or employment.