Design and Technology

Exam board: AQA

Exam papers: Paper 1 – Technical principles, 2hrs 30 mins and Paper 2 – designing and making principles, 1 hr 30 mins

The AQA A-Level Design and Technology course focuses on developing students' practical and theoretical knowledge of design, creativity, and technology. It encourages students to engage in innovative design thinking while applying technical knowledge to solve real-world problems. This course combines a deep understanding of design principles with the skills required to produce practical outcomes, preparing students for higher education or careers in design, engineering, architecture, or related fields.

The AQA A-Level Design and Technology course is divided into two main components: theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students will gain a broad understanding of design principles, materials, manufacturing techniques, and modern technologies while also applying this knowledge to real-world projects. In Yr 12 this comprises of a series of mini-design and make tasks, as follows:

• Urban plant holder
• Jewellery inspired by Tatty Devine
• Lighting
• Tool Caddy

Assessment:

Project coursework and mock examinations each term

Homework:

Activities and supplementary material relating to the course textbook. Coursework and independent study.

Design and Technology

Exam board: AQA

Exam papers: Paper 1 – Technical principles, 2hrs 30 mins and Paper 2 – designing and making principles, 1 hr 30 mins

The AQA A-Level Design and Technology course focusses on developing students' practical and theoretical knowledge of design, creativity, and technology. It encourages students to engage in innovative design thinking while applying technical knowledge to solve real-world problems. This course combines a deep understanding of design principles with the skills required to produce practical outcomes, preparing students for higher education or careers in design, engineering, architecture, or related fields.

The AQA A-Level Design and Technology course is divided into two main components: theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students will gain a broad understanding of design principles, materials, manufacturing techniques, and modern technologies while also applying this knowledge to real-world projects. In Yr 13 this comprises of the following assessment.

Assessment:

The AQA A-Level Design and Technology is assessed through two components:

1. Component 1: Written Exam (50%)
   1. The written exam is 2 hours long and assesses students on their theoretical knowledge, including design principles, materials, production processes, and the application of technologies. The exam consists of multiple-choice, short answer, and extended response questions.
2. Component 2: Non-Examined Assessment (50%)
   1. The practical component is a design and make project that requires students to develop a prototype based on a design brief. Students will go through the design process, which includes:
      1. Research and analysis of a design problem.
      2. Designing and prototyping solutions.
      3. Testing and evaluating the final product.
   2. The project is accompanied by a written report, which outlines the design process and reflects on the decisions made throughout the project.

Homework:

Activities and supplementary material relating to the course textbook. Coursework and independent study.