Page 21 - Seaford Sixth Form Options Booklet 2021

Design Technology: Product Design A Level (AQA)
Head of Department:
Mr D Shaw
Teaching Staff:
Mr D Shaw
Mr P Harker
Ms A Prince-Iles
Course Content
Paper 1: Technical Principles (2hrs 30mins - 30%)
Paper 2: Designing and Making Principles (1hr 30mins - 20%)
Non-exam assessment (single substantial design and make task - 45 hours – 50%)
Overview
Designing and making is at the heart of this course. Over
the two years, students study historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on Design and Technology and put their learning into practice by designing and making products. They develop an understanding of what it is like to be a designer and maker as well as gaining skills useful for employment and/or higher education in this field. The first year of the course is spent exploring materials and processes through a largely project-based approach. Projects for this include: silver jewellery, welding, casting, woodwork, composites, 3D modelling and CAD/CAM.
Expectations
In all lessons, students will need to be able to offer a high level of concentration in order that new concepts can be appreciated and understood quickly as well as permanently. Students will need to be able to
work independently and safely within the workshop environment. Students should understand that class contact time must
be supported by their commitment to consolidate their own understanding in their own private study time.
Future Pathway
A wide range of careers, further education and degree courses can be studied within the Art, Design, Architecture and Engineering fields (to name a few).
Key Skills
Sketching, Design, Manufacturing, Workshop Skills, Production, CNC and CAD.
Recommended Entry Requirements
Grade 6 or above in GCSE Design Technology and a strong interest in the subject.
19