Design and Technology (Product Design)
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Course summary
The AQA Product Design A-Level enables students to develop an understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of a broad range of materials and components. Students will look at the broader issues of design including the environmental impact of products and their manufacture; methods in which materials and components can be manipulated to manufacture products; health and safety issues relevant to working with materials; computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacture (CAM); ergonomics and anthropometrics, inclusive design, and consumer safety; the life cycle of products including manufacture, use and functional aspects and final disposal. The course here is designed to cover both the board’s specification and that of expanding a student’s design capability towards further education. The course is set up in Year 12 to give a broad foundation in design practice – these skills are intended to bring out a student’s creativity, allow them to find their strengths in the subject, and build their independence in learning. Key skills in sketching/drawing, CAD, and 3D modeling are taught and encouraged as the basis for visualizing ideas. Knowledge and understanding of wider design issues and technology are also regularly taught. The tuition covers a broad range of content from the underpinning theory, design/ideation skills, sketching, and design drawing through to CAD (Computer Aided Design). Evidence for assessment is compiled as an e-portfolio but produced in a wide range of software packages: • Full Adobe Suite – Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign • CAD – Fusion 360, CREO, Keyshot, 2D Design. • CAM - 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, Cam machines
Entry Requirements
Checked against your grades — every rule traces to the school's published source.
| Requirement | Rule | You |
|---|---|---|
Total point score | Minimum total point score of 50 | — |
As published by the school
A GCSE points score of at least 50. Grade 4 or higher in both English Language and Mathematics. 6 in Design Technology.
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Assessment
Paper 1 - Technical Principles 30% (Mix of short and extended responses) Paper 2 – Designing and making Principles 20% (Mix of short and extended responses + product analysis + commercial manufacture questions.) Non Examined Assessment/Coursework 50% (45hrs single substantial design and making task.)
About School
50%
