Sixth Form Subject Choices 2021 - Flipbook - Page 25
What is the course content and how is it assessed?
Component 1: Principles of Design and Technology (exam)
2 hours 30 minutes. 50% of the A Level. 120 marks
In this unit students will develop their knowledge and understanding of a range of modern design and
manufacturing practices and contemporary design issues. The modern designer must have a good working
knowledge of the use of ICT and systems and control technology in the design and manufacture of products.
This will include fundamental maths and science skills underpin the theory and practice of design for the
future.
Assessment:
The paper includes calculations, short and open-response questions. as well as extended-writing
questions focused on:
Analysis and evaluation of design decisions and outcomes against a technical principle, for
prototypes made by others
Analysis and evaluation of wider issues in design technology including social, moral, ethical and
environmental impacts
Students must answer all questions - calculators and rulers to be used in the examination
Component 2: Independent Design and Make Project (Portfolio)
In this component students are given the opportunity to apply the skills they have acquired throughout this
course of study, to design and make a product of their choice, that complies with a resistant material or
graphic product in consultation with a client to solve a problem. Students will develop a range of potential
solutions which include the use of computer aided design and traditional modelling to development a
prototype in conjunction with the opinions of the user group or client.
Students will realise one potential solution through practical making activities with evidence of project
management and plan for production. This will incorporate issues related to sustainability and the impact
their prototype may have on the environment. Through the production of a portfolio students are expected
to analyse and evaluate design decisions for prototypes/products made by themselves and others including
wider issues such as social, moral, ethical and environmental impacts.
Assessment:
The investigation report is internally assessed and externally moderated
Students will produce a substantial Design, Make and Evaluate project which consists of a portfolio and
a prototype
The portfolio will contain approximately 40 sides of A3 paper (or electronic equivalent)
There are four parts to the assessment as listed below
Part 1: Identifying Opportunities for Design
Identification of a design problem, the investigation of a client’s needs and specification.
Part 2: Designing a Prototype
Design ideas, development of design idea, final design solution, review of development and final design and
communication of design ideas
Part 3: Making a Prototype
Design, manufacture and realisation of a final prototype, including tools and equipment and quality and
accuracy
Part 4: Evaluating own Design and Prototype
Testing and evaluation
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Sixth Form Prospectus