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Technology

Jump to: Form 4 | Pre-Q | NCEA Level 2 | AS Level | NCEA Level 3 | A2 Level

Introduction

The Technology department aims to develop creative problem solvers capable of producing imaginative and functional products. The courses available to students to achieve these aims are wide and varied but can be broadly broken down into technology and graphics.

Both Graphics and Technology are approached as problem-solving activities rather than just an acquisition of skills. All projects are driven by realistic design briefs written by teachers, and at higher levels, the students themselves. This enables pupils to produce work within their own areas of personal interest.

Form 4 – Engineering Systems and Design

Prerequisites: Students will be able to demonstrate successful completion of the Form 3 Core Technology Course. Consideration for course admission will be based on both attainment and attitude and effort grades from Form 3 reported grades.

Course description/aims: This course aims to develop students’ problem-solving capabilities and application of theoretical knowledge through focused projects that lead onto Pre-Q Advanced Engineering and Pre-Q Core, Trades and Construction. This course builds on the Resistant Materials, Computing/Programming and Graphics strands followed in the Form 3 Core Technology course.

Course outline: The course is suitable to those students who are interested in a possible career in Engineering, Product Design or Industrial Design. It is about the integration of scientific and technical principles with creative design.

Each project will be underpinned by a folio of supporting work demonstrating the student’s process of thought and application of knowledge. A very important aspect of the course is to provide students with a clear understanding of mechanical construction and software engineering. There is a clear emphasis on Mathematics and reasoned decision-making and the course is divided into three units of work:

  • Structures and bridge building (national competition)
  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and programming 
  • Mechanical systems, sustainable and emerging technologies

Students will each receive a printed workbook to cover course content, typical examination questions and relevant revision material.

Methods of assessment: Students’ work will be assessed on their end-of-term examination and a portfolio of design work.  The examinations will focus on the mathematical and scientific principles to design engineering. It will also test their knowledge of materials and properties, alongside manufacturing techniques. Assessment for the portfolio component will focus on the process of designing, modelling and testing.

Special equipment and costs: Students are expected to bring basic graphics equipment to lessons and will be required to contribute towards materials costs. It is anticipated that these will be no more than $50, but will vary depending upon the size and complexity of the projects undertaken.

Continuation of subject: This course leads onto Pre-Q Advanced Engineering or Pre-Q Core Trades and Construction.

Form 4 – Graphics

Prerequisites: Students will be able to demonstrate successful completion of the Form 3 Core Technology Course. Students wanting to take Pre-Q Graphics should be aware that this course is a prerequisite to Form 5 study and beyond.

Course description/aims: The course is suitable for those students who are interested in a possible career in Architecture, Product Design or Industrial Design. The course is a foundation year to Pre-Q Graphics and will provide students with the fundamental sketching, technical drawing, design skills and theoretical knowledge required to successfully tackle Pre-Q Graphics. The basic aims of the course are to:

  • Develop graphic communication skills including freehand sketching and presentation techniques
  • Develop formal graphics skills including instrumental drawing and geometric construction
  • Promote students’ problem-solving skills by developing their knowledge and understanding of a design process
  • Develop students’ ability to model solutions, usually in card and other compliant materials
  • Nurture creative and thoughtful problem solvers
  • To provide experience of using CAD and Manufacture techniques

Course outlines: During Form 4, this subject is driven by skills and associated design knowledge. These include the ability to problem-solve, construct graphical solutions to problems, to model and visually communicate solutions. The course is broken down into focused, skill-based tasks and teacher-directed projects that enable students to apply and demonstrate their understanding of the skills acquired, by developing a solution to a design brief.

Methods of assessment: Students’ work will be assessed on their end-of-term examination and a portfolio of design work. The examination will focus on practical design skills and theoretical knowledge of design including the design process, history, social and ethical considerations, sustainability, materials, their properties and manufacturing processes. Assessment for the portfolio component will include the completion of class-based exercises and design brief-driven projects.

Special equipment and costs: Students will be provided with a junior graphics pack at the start of the year, which will include an A3 folio, A4 sketchbook, 2B, HB and 2H pencils. In addition, they will need to purchase a good quality compass, 30cm ruler and coloured pencils. Students will be required to contribute approximately $60 towards the graphics pack and take-home material costs.

Continuation of subject: This course leads onto Pre-Q Advanced and Pre-Q Core Graphics.

Form 5 Design and Technology – Engineering Pre-Q (Advanced)

Prerequisites: Motivated students who are interested in problem-solving are encouraged to select this course.   Priority will be given to students who have successfully completed the Form 4 Engineering, Systems and Design (ESD) or Graphics courses.

Course description/aims:

  • Develop students’ creative thinking through the solving of realistic design briefs (assessed in examination format)
  • Focus on a body of knowledge to enable practical problem solving
  • Encourage technological awareness and impacts upon environment and society
  • Stimulate value judgements on designs including aesthetic, functional, technical, economic and moral judgements
  • Develop making/modelling skills to develop a working proto-type/solution (including the use of CAD and Manufacture)
  • Develop awareness of and skills in a range of manufacturing techniques using resistant materials

Course outline: The course will be based around knowledge-based teaching and learning to enable success in the examinations and course work projects. A number of minor projects will focus on the development of particular skills and knowledge. The course is a solid foundation to Cambridge AS Level Product Design.

Students will gain experience in all areas of Product Design from identifying design problems, investigating a problem, creating concepts, as well as realising those concepts in fully working prototypes.

Project and topics include:

  • Learning about the physical characteristics, working properties and typical applications of hardwood, softwood and man-made boards. Students will prepare, mark and set out using datums to shape and form straight and curved profiles using a range of hand and machine tools.  Students will produce and assemble a small item of furniture, which will be joined using a range of frame and carcass construction techniques, with an appropriate variety of finishes.  Students will also learn about the use of temporary and permanent fixings including screws, adhesives, nails, dominos and dowels, describe the process of laminating and explain its significance in terms of strength and form
  • Students will learn how to work with and describe physical characteristics, working properties and typical applications of ferrous, non-ferrous metals and alloys. Students will develop skills in advanced machine operations using the centre lathe (cold riveting), milling machine, pillar drill and heat treatments.  Students will produce a simple clamping device using screw threads
  • Focusing on traditional design and communication skills as well as the use of CAD and Manufacture using industry standard software such as 2D Design or Solidworks and CAM machines such as Laser cutters and 3D printers.  As a course work project, students will produce a working prototype made from compliant materials. Discovering the working characteristics and properties of thermoplastics and thermoset plastics and typical applications, as well as the use of composites and on-going material research
  • Learning how advances in technology impact upon the evolution of design. Students will learn how to demonstrate an understanding of the need of designers to consider physical, cultural and aesthetic needs. Students will discover how product and graphic designers and engineers shape aspects of the man-made environment and show appreciation of the economic implications of design decision-making

Methods of assessment: School Examinations:

  • 1 x 1-hour examination
  • 1 x 2-hour examination
  • 1 x 3-hour examination (Pre-Q – 70%)

Students will be assessed by examination (70%) and three focused practical tasks throughout the year (30%).

Special equipment and costs: Students will be required to cover take-home material costs. It is anticipated that this will be around $75, depending upon the projects undertaken.

Continuation of subject: Cambridge AS and A2 Engineering Product Design, or NCEA Level 2 and Level 3 Industrial Design, depending upon the pathway.

Form 5 Design and Technology, Graphics – Pre-Q Core and Pre-Q Advanced

Prerequisites: Students will be able to demonstrate successful completion of the Form 4 Graphics or Engineering Courses.

Course description/aims:

  • Develop students’ creative thinking through the solving of realistic design briefs
  • Focus on a body of knowledge to enable practical problem solving
  • Enable students to relate their work to personal interests
  • To encourage technological awareness to include design and its impacts upon the environment and society
  • Stimulate value judgements on designs including aesthetic, technical, economic and moral judgements
  • Develop making/modelling skills including the use of Computer-Aided Design and Manufacture

Course outline: Students will gain experience in all areas of Graphic Design from identifying design problems, investigating a problem, creating concepts, as well as realising those concepts in fully working prototypes. Project and topics include:

  • Students will be given a design brief. They will select and use formal and free-hand drawing techniques appropriate to the subject including: assembled, exploded and cut-away, orthographic drawing in first and third angle projection, dimensioning, isometrics, including circles and arcs, perspective, using one and two points Students will have an introduction on how to apply correct drawing techniques. They will then learn how to use CAD and CAM by using appropriate software programs, such as Sketchup, as well as 2D design and use CAM (the laser cutter) to make small prototypes of their chosen design
  • Accepted techniques of rendering will be covered and these will then be applied to enhance the visual appeal of presentation drawings
  • Students will learn how to go about answering a design brief. They will produce prototype CAD and physical models to give them a better understanding of the challenges that this brings. They will have to choose suitable materials and finishes in order to create a successful solution
  • Students will learn how advances in technology impact upon the evolution of design. Students will learn how to demonstrate an understanding of the need of designers to consider physical, cultural and aesthetic needs. Students will also discover how product and graphic designers and engineers shape aspects of the man-made environment and show appreciation of the economic implications of design decision-making

Methods of assessment: Students will be assessed by an end-of-year examination (70%) and a major design-based project (30%). The brief for the project will be negotiated by the student and teacher to ensure suitability, but will be developed from a teacher-given context. The examination consists of two papers: a common core paper (testing graphical ability) and a communication paper (testing the problem solving and designing).

Special equipment and costs: All students will require an A3 folio to keep project work in, as well as the basic Graphics kit (approximate cost $60). An A3 drawing board and set squares are strongly advised.

Continuation of subject: Cambridge AS/A Level Graphic Products and Architecture or NCEA Industrial Design, depending upon the pathway.

Form 5 Trades and Construction – Pre-Q Core

Pre-requisites: Motivated students who want to explore the opportunities offered throughout the construction industry.  Priority will be given to students who have successfully completed the Form 4 Engineering course.

Course description/aims:

  • Develop students who are comfortable working practically to solve problems
  • Encourage technological awareness
  • Provide the foundation skills to enable students to complete their National Certificate in Building, Construction, and Allied Trades Skills during their two years of study
  • Build knowledge and develop skills in a range of different tools and equipment used throughout the construction industry
  • Create a range of projects that builds students’ ability to select and use tools

Course outline: This programme introduces a range of construction trade areas. Largely practical in nature, the course is based around simple construction projects such as: furniture making, finishing and decorating skills, basic construction of a product and other hands-on activities. At the completion of the programme, students will have the basic capabilities needed to complete their National Certificate in Building, Construction, and Allied Trades Skills Level 2.

Methods of assessment:

Students work towards the National Certificate in Building, Construction, and Allied Trades Skills Level 2. They will complete a range of industry NCEA unit standards that will be assessed through coursework and examinations. The NCEA Standards that are offered are designed for those who seek further education as an apprentice. Unit standards are not recognised by Universities for entrance credits. A typical year will include the following standards:

  • 24352 – demonstrate knowledge of and apply safe working practices in the construction of a BCATS project
  • 12927 – demonstrate knowledge of, select, maintain, and use hand tools for BCATS projects
  • 24352 – use joints for a BCATS project.
  • 24355 – demonstrate knowledge of construction and manufacturing materials used in BCATS projects

In addition to these standards, students will develop basic mathematical skills, material and manufacturing process and material knowledge.

Special equipment and costs: There will be a compulsory material cost of $120. At the completion of each project, students will be able to take their projects home. Students will also be encouraged to purchase a set of chisels, tenon saw, set of drill bits and drivers and a square during the course of the year.

Continuation of subject: Trades and Construction Level 2 (Unit standards, not suitable for University entrance. If you are an NCEA student wanting to go to University, you should opt for Graphics and then Industrial Design).

Form 6 – Industrial Design (NCEA Level 2)

Prerequisites: Motivated and creative students who have demonstrated successful completion of Form 5 Pre-Q Graphics, or Engineering, attaining a mark of at least 50%.

Course description/aims: This course further develops the skills acquired at Pre-Q Graphics or Engineering by tackling more complex design briefs. Students will continue to develop their problem-solving, practical, graphic communication and presentation skills, with elements of teaching and learning taking place via both practical and conceptual design projects. Students will be given the opportunity to evidence their work using a variety of tools including Computer-Aided Design and Manufacture. Level 2 Industrial Design is predominantly product-focused, progressing to spatial design at Level 3.

The course aims to further develop:

  • Creative thinking in relation to the understanding of a design process
  • Practical manufacturing skills using a variety of media (resistant and compliant materials)
  • Creative and practical problem solving
  • Research and synthesis skills
  • Technological knowledge focusing on Technological Modelling
  • Knowledge of Technology and Technologists and their impact on society
  • Understanding of sustainability and design’s impact on the environment and society
  • Ability to use ICT to both solve problems and present design concepts using Computer-Aided Design
  • Exploration of modelling, both as a means of presenting and solving design problems. This includes both CAD and physical model-making
  • A range of graphics skills to communicate design ideas

Course outline: This course uses the application of both practical and visual communication skills together with knowledge of the design process to solve design problems in relation to a brief. Design briefs are often negotiated and finalised by the student. There are three main focuses for study for the year:

  • A practical product manufacturing brief designed to focus on using resistant materials and advanced machining procedures to produce a product to a given specification
  • A conceptual product design project fusing furniture with architecture through the application of a design process and visual communication skills and techniques, along with the understanding of the impact of design on people and the environment
  • A written report that explores the process and purpose of using technological modelling throughout the design process

Methods of assessment: Students will be given the opportunity to gain up to 19 credits towards NCEA Level 2. Students will be assessed against the following Achievement Standards, with final assessment being based 100% on course work.

  • 91337 – use visual communication techniques to generate design ideas [3 credits, External]
  • 91342 – develop a product design through graphics practice [6 credits, Internal]
  • 91343 – use visual communication techniques to compose a presentation of a design [Internal]
  • 91344 – implement advanced procedures using resistant materials to make a specified product with special features [6 credits, Internal]

Special equipment and costs: All students will require specialist graphics equipment which will be made available to them from School at the start of the year (approximate cost $60). Students will be required to cover take-home material costs. The materials costs will vary depending upon the project undertaken and is largely controlled by the student.

Continuation of subject: This course leads onto NCEA Level 3 Industrial Design.

Form 6 – Trades and Construction – Level 2 (Unit Standards)

Prerequisites: Students must have successfully completed the Pre-Q Engineering or Trades and Construction course achieving a minimum of 50%, or have been approved by the Head of Technology.

Course description/aims: The purpose of this qualification is to provide the wider construction trades sector with work-ready people who are able to enter the construction industry and who have developed essential transferable skills and underpinning knowledge applicable to a wide range of construction-related trades.

Students who participate in the Trades and Construction programme can go on to consider a range of roles in the construction industry, such as seeking an Apprenticeship in carpentry, brick and block laying, painting and decorating, flooring, joinery, plumbing and gas fitting, frame and truss and aluminium joinery. The programme also provides a good base for students’ who would like to enter other related areas of the construction industry such as architecture, quantity surveying and estimating.

Course outline: The course builds on the foundation skills and knowledge gained in Pre-Q Core Trades and Construction to refine student skills and develop understanding about best practice and manufacturing techniques. Largely practical in nature, based around construction projects such as furniture making and other hands on activities. Students will aim to achieve their National Certificate in Building, Construction, and Allied Trades Skills at the completion of the course.

Methods of assessment: Students work towards the National Certificate in Building, Construction, and Allied Trades Skills Level 2. The NCEA standards that are offered are designed for those who seek further education as an apprentice. Unit standard are not recognised by Universities for entrance credits. A typical year will include the following standards:

  • 25921 – make a cupboard with a drawer as a BCATS project [6 credits]
  • 12932 – construct timber garden furniture as a BCATS project [8 credits]
  • 24353 – demonstrate knowledge of and create sketching and drawings for a BCATS project [6 credits]
  • 24354 – demonstrate knowledge of health and safety legislation and apply safe working practices in a BCATS environment [4 credits]

In addition to these standards, students will continue to develop their understanding on how to best use both hand and power tools in the workshop, along with maintenance and health and safety.

Special equipment and costs: There will be a compulsory material cost of $100. At the completion of each project, students will be able to take their projects home. Students will also be encouraged to purchase a set of chisels, tenon saw, set of drill bits and drivers, claw hammer and a square for the start of course.

Continuation of subject: NCEA Level 3 Trades and Construction.

Form 6 Design and Technology – Engineering Product Design (AS)

Prerequisites: Motivated and creative students who have demonstrated successful completion of Form 5 Pre-Q Graphics, or Pre-Q Engineering, attaining a mark of at least 60%.

Course description/aims:

  • Develop and sustain students’ own innovation, creativity and design and technology capability, to recognise constraints and to produce high-quality products
  • Develop an awareness of the significance of design and technology upon society
  • Apply essential knowledge, understanding and skills of design production processes to a range of technological activities and develop an understanding of industrial practices
  • Use ICT (including CAD/CAM) as appropriate, to enhance students’ design and technology capability
  • Develop critical evaluation skills in technical, aesthetic, economic, environmental, social and cultural contexts
  • Develop as discerning consumers able to make informed choices
  • Develop positive attitudes of co-operation and citizenship and being able to work collaboratively
  • Critically analyse products and their impacts

Course outline:

  • The course will be based around knowledge-based teaching and learning to enable success in the major project. A number of minor projects will focus on the development of particular skills and knowledge, enabling success later in the year both in the major project and examination
  • Students will gain experience of all areas of product development from identifying and writing a brief through to research, analysis, ideation and modelling skills to include CAD

Methods of assessment: Students will be assessed by an end-of-year examination (60%) and a major design-based project (40%). The project will be based on a self-determined design problem and will result in the production of a design model that will be developed into a prototype in Form 7. The design brief will be negotiated by the student and teacher to ensure suitability.

Special equipment and costs: Students will be required to cover take-home material costs. It is anticipated that these will range between $50 and $120 depending upon the project undertaken.

Continuation of subject: Cambridge A2 Level Design and Technology Product Design.

Form 6 Graphics – Products and Architecture (AS)

Prerequisites: Motivated and creative students who have demonstrated successful completion of Form 5 Pre-Q Graphics, attaining a mark of at least 60%.

Course description/aims:

  • Develop and sustain students’ own innovation, creativity and design and technology capability to recognise constraints and to produce high-quality products
  • Develop an awareness of the significance of design and technology upon society
  • Apply essential knowledge, understanding and skills of design production processes to a range of technological activities and develop an understanding of industrial practices
  • Use ICT (including CAD/CAM) as appropriate to enhance students’ design and technology capability
  • Develop critical evaluation skills in technical, aesthetic, economic, environmental, social and cultural contexts
  • Develop as discerning consumers able to make informed choices
  • Develop positive attitudes of co-operation and citizenship and being able to work collaboratively
  • Critically analyse products and their impacts

Course outline:

  • The course will be based around knowledge-based teaching and learning to enable success in a major project. A number of minor projects will focus on the development of particular skills and knowledge, enabling success later in the year, both in the major project and examination
  • Students will gain experience of all areas of product development from identifying and writing a brief through to research, analysis, ideation and modelling skills to include CAD

Methods of assessment: Students will be assessed by an end-of-year examination (60%) and a major design-based project (40%). The project will be based on a self-determined design problem and will result in the production of a design model that will be developed into a prototype in Form 7. The design brief will be negotiated by the student and teacher to ensure suitability.

Special equipment and costs: All students will require an A3 folio to keep project work in, as well as a basic Graphics kit (approximate cost is $45) or similar.

Continuation of subject: Cambridge A2 Level Design and Technology Graphics Products.

Form 7 – Industrial Design (NCEA Level 3)

Prerequisites: Students must be able to demonstrate successful completion of Form 6 NCEA Level 2 Industrial Design course and will have attained a minimum of 12 credits.

Course description/aims: The NCEA Level 3 course further develops the skills acquired at NCEA Level 2. NCEA Level 3 Industrial Design is recognised as a University Entrance Course, so the credits earned by students will go towards their further studies. Students are required to demonstrate their understanding of the design process, in addition to skills in presentation, modelling and drawing through an in-depth conceptual design project.

Key aims include:

  • Developing a range of graphics skills to communicate design ideas
  • Producing creative problem solvers
  • Developing design and aesthetic awareness and appreciating the impact of design on people and the environment
  • Developing high-quality presentation skills
  • Continuing to explore modelling, both as a means of presenting and solving design problems. This will see students develop skills in Computer-Aided Design to communicate design ideas

The course aims to further develop the students’:

  • Creative thinking using a design process
  • Practical, modelling skills using compliant materials
  • Creative and practical problem solving
  • Research and synthesis skills
  • Technological knowledge, focusing on Materials and Manufacturing Technologies
  • Knowledge of Technology and Technologists, and their design philosophies
  • Ability to use ICT to both solve problems and present design concepts using Computer-Aided Design and Manufacture (3D Printing)

Course outline: This course uses design and visual communication skills and knowledge to resolve a user-centered design problem within a specified context. The focus for study in Form 7 is spatial design (architecture).

The course looks at a variety of techniques that students can use to aid their designing and creative thinking, culminating in much more in-depth projects than previously produced.

Teaching and learning will take place via a major conceptual design project. Students will be given the opportunity to evidence their work using a variety of traditional media and tools including Computer-Aided Design and Manufacture (CAD and CAM) including computer modelling, laser cutting and 3D printing.

Methods of assessment: Students will be given the opportunity to gain up to 20 credits towards NCEA Level 3. Students will be assessed against the following Achievement Standards, with final assessment being based 100% on course work:

Achievement Standards:

  • 91622 – Implement complex procedures to make a specified product using a computer numerical controlled (CNC) Machine [4 credits, Internal]
  • 91627 – Initiate design ideas through exploration [4 credits, External]
  • 91628 – Develop a visual presentation that exhibits a design outcome to an audience [6 credits, Internal]
  • 91629 – Resolve a spatial design through graphics practice [6 credits, Internal]

All students will require specialist rendering equipment which will be made available to them from School at the start of the year (approximate cost $50), if they did not purchase this in Form 6. Students will be required to cover take-home material costs. The materials costs will vary depending upon the project undertaken and is largely controlled by the student.

Form 7 – Trades and Construction (NCEA Level 3)

Prerequisites: Students must have successfully completed NCEA 2 Level Trades and Construction achieving a minimum of 12 credits.

Course description/aims: The purpose of this qualification is to provide the wider construction trades sector with work-ready people who are able to enter the construction industry. Students who participate in the Trades and Construction programme can go on to consider a range of roles in the construction industry, which may include apprenticeships in a variety of trades such as carpentry, brick and block laying, painting and decorating, flooring, joinery, plumbing and gas fitting, frame and truss, and aluminium joinery. The programme also provides a good base for students who would like to enter other related areas of the construction industry such as architecture, quantity surveying and estimating.

Course outline: The course further refines the students’ construction skills and understanding about best practice and manufacturing techniques. The course focuses on teamwork, organisation and management skills and a work diary where students reflect and communicate their successes. The course is largely practical in nature, based around a large construction project that encompasses many skills such as problem-solving, health and safety, use of power tools, mathematics, communication skills and other hands-on activities. This course will utilise industry expertise by offering workplace visits and guest speakers to allow students to build relationships with industry and gain practical experience.

Methods of assessment: Students work towards the industry NCEA Level 3 unit standards, that will be assessed through course work and examinations. The NCEA standards that are offered are designed for those who seek further education as an apprentice. Unit standard are not recognised by universities for entrance credits. A typical year will include the following standards:

  • 29684 – Stage 3 Project [12 Credits]
  • 29679< – develop and use BCATs project documentation for a Stage 3 BCATS project [8 Credits]
  • 29677 – follow safe workplace practices, and contribute to a health and safety culture, in a BCATS environment [2 Credits]
  • 29682 – select, use, and maintain tools, equipment and machinery for a Stage 3 BCATS project [>4 Credits]

In addition to these standards, students will continue to develop their understanding on how to best use both hand and power tools in the workshop, along with maintenance and health and safety.

Special equipment and costs: There will be a compulsory material cost of $120. Students will also be encouraged to purchase a set of chisels, tenon saw, set of drill bits and drivers, claw hammer, a square, safety glasses and steel capped boots for the start of the course.

Form 7 Design and Technology – Product Design (A2)

Prerequisites: Students must achieve at least a C grade in Cambridge AS Product Design or a high D Grade by negotiation with the Head of Technology.

Course description/aims: The course aims to:

  • Develop and sustain students’ own innovation, creativity and design and technology capability, to recognise constraints and to produce high-quality products
  • Develop an awareness of the significance of design and technology upon society
  • Apply essential knowledge, understanding and skills of design production processes to a range of technological activities and develop an understanding of industrial practices
  • Use ICT as appropriate, to enhance students’ design and technology capability
  • Develop critical evaluation skills in technical, functional, aesthetic, economic, environmental, social and cultural contexts
  • Develop as discerning consumers able to make informed choices
  • Develop positive attitudes of co-operation and citizenship and work collaboratively
  • Critically analyse products and their impacts

Course outline: The course will be based around knowledge-based teaching and learning to enable success in a major project. A number of minor projects will focus on the development of particular skills and knowledge, enabling success later in the year, both in the major project and examination. Students will gain experience of all areas of product design including: design development, design communication, CAD modelling, rapid prototyping (3D Printing), engineering drawings and producing models and mock-ups.

Methods of assessment: Students will be assessed by an end-of-year examination (60%) and a major design-based project (40%). The project will be based on a self-determined design problem and will result in the production of a fully working prototype. The major project will likely be a continuation of the project undertaken at Cambridge AS Level.

Special equipment and costs: Students will be required to cover take-home material costs. It is anticipated that these will range between $60 and $150, depending upon the project undertaken.

Form 7 Graphics – Products and Architecture (A2)

Prerequisites: Students must achieve at least a C grade in Cambridge AS Graphics or a high D Grade by negotiation with the Head of Technology.

Course description/aims: The course aims to:

  • Develop and sustain students’ own innovation, creativity and design and technology capability, to recognise constraints and to produce high quality products
  • Develop an awareness of the significance of design and technology upon society
  • Apply essential knowledge, understanding and skills of design production processes to a range of technological activities and develop an understanding of industrial practices
  • Use ICT as appropriate, to enhance students’ design and technology capability
  • Develop critical evaluation skills in technical, functional, aesthetic, economic, environmental, social and cultural contexts
  • Develop as discerning consumers able to make informed choices
  • Develop positive attitudes of co-operation and citizenship and being able to work collaboratively
  • Critically analyse products and their impacts

Course outline: The course will be based around knowledge-based teaching and learning to enable success in a major project. A number of minor projects will focus on the development of particular skills and knowledge, enabling success later in the year, both in the major project and examination. Students will gain experience of all areas of graphics from freehand sketching and rendering to further develop design concepts, through to geometric construction, CAD modelling, rapid prototyping, engineering drawings and producing refined models and mock-ups.

Methods of assessment: Students will be assessed by an end-of year-examination (60%) and a major design-based project (40%). The project will be based on a self-determined design problem and will result in the production of a design model and accompanying presentation. The major project will likely be a continuation of the project undertaken at Cambridge AS Level.

Special equipment and costs: All students will require an A3 folio to keep project work in as well as the basic Graphics kit (approximate cost $45) or similar.

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