Design & technology a level

design

technology Exam Board: AQA How does the design process work - from initial concept through to manufacture of a product?

How do designers produce items which are useful and easy to use?

Why is a designer’s choice of materials important?

Is Design & Technology for you?

You must have achieved at least 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including at least a grade C in English Language. Having studied Design & Technology to GCSE Level is an advantage but not essential.

You want to combine practical and technological skills with creative thinking to design and make products and systems people need.

You are a creative designer and technical problem solver.

You want to learn more about how products are designed and put this into practice to produce your own high quality products.

You want to learn to use current technologies and consider the impact of future technological developments.

What will I learn?

AS Year Materials, Components & Application You will also develop your knowledge and understanding of materials, production processes and the impact of cost and design.

Learning through Designing & Making You will produce coursework incorporating a wide range of materials and media used in the design process. Students are encouraged to study existing designs, including ways of improving them, in order to develop their understanding of the basic principles of design.

How will I be assessed?

50% of the overall grade will be assessed through written examinations. The remaining 50% is assessed through coursework.

What activities can I get involved in?

A2 Year Design & Manufacture At A2 the specification offers students the opportunity to further develop their knowledge and practical skills gained at AS. Students will continue to design and manufacture exciting products alongside an understanding of the processes and procedures of commercial manufacture.

Design and Making in Practice You will be given the opportunity to apply the skills that you have acquired and developed throughout the course, to design and make a product of your choice, in agreement with your tutor.

You will be given the space and support to manufacture and develop your own creative products in our College workshops.

You will also have the opportunity to enhance your learning outside the classroom by taking part in department visits.

Recent trips have included the Design Museum, London to take part in a workshop; ‘Idea Generation’ to investigate and explore the design process and the role of the designer.

The College has lots of exciting enrichment and C.V building opportunities including the chance to earn the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, learn a new skill, learn a language, join a club, take up or develop a sport or take on a new challenge. See the College Prospectus for further information about what is on offer.

Where does it lead?

Design and Technology complements and draws upon other curriculum areas such as Science, Maths, Art and Design, Business, IT and Economics. Many students continue on to University, taking Design, Architecture or Engineering courses.

The career opportunities within the design and technology fields are endless. Some examples include product design, graphic design, engineering and computer aided design (CAD).

Expect more from your sixth form Facebook.com/birkenheadsixthformcollege

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