Sixth Form Prospectus 2011 Head of Department: Mr Alastair White
Examination Board: AQA
Why study Design & Technology Product Design?
Studying D&T enables you to get to grips with social and environmental issues surrounding the use of the materials of our world in a way that is practical, thought provoking and intellectually challenging. D&T is a rapidly growing subject at AS Level; some students choose D&T because it fits well with their Science courses, others because it gives them a valuable life-experience in managing a truly personal project across long timescales.
design & technology product design
Will I enjoy it?
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Definitely! Most especially if you enjoy practical activity, new challenges, thought provoking dilemmas and have a desire to do things in life. If you are excited by the thought of a personal project combining a knowledge of traditional materials and techniques with Computer Aided Design, using the same cutting-edge software found in architectural and engineering practices worldwide, then you should consider this course. The Computer Aided Design suite houses state-of-the-art computers and these are linked to a computer controlled laser cutter that allows students to experience modern design and manufacturing techniques first hand
Course Content
AS: You will choose a personal project to design and make, hopefully one which addresses some need for improvement in the world. Originality, spontaneity and a willingness to take risks (not too many!) are all really important. New technologies such as electronics will be incorporated into your project as required. The content of the written paper is taught separately to your project work, but where possible you will study the theory work through practical activities. A2: Again the course is project based but the depth of theory work increases, looking at the historical, technical and cultural issues surrounding Design and Technology.
Assessment
AS: 1 x 2 hour paper A2: 1 x 3 hour paper Coursework Requirements: AS – 1 Major Project | A2 – 1 Major Project
Tell me more….
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In spite of the workload D&T is SO MUCH FUN - and a refreshing, if demanding, difference from classroombased subjects. Most important of all, students will learn to think in very different ways. Divergent thinking will take the place of the neat and easy certainties of much GCSE work. The ‘wicked’ problems you will face will have no easy or known solutions. This makes D&T an excellent stepping-stone to university life