Students investigate the historical, social, cultural, environmental, and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning into practice by producing products of their choice. Students also gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside developing the knowledge and skills sought by higher education institutions and employers. A-level Design and Technology: Product Design requires students to engage in both practical and theoretical study. This specification requires students to cover design and technology skills and knowledge. The qualification is set out in two distinct but interrelated components: • Component 1: Principles of Design and Technology • Component 2: Independent Design and Make Project Students will be required to undertake a substantial design and make a prototype. Designing, making, and evaluating the project will be a real test of their skills. A written or digital design folder or portfolio evidencing how the assessment criteria have been met must be produced, together with photographic evidence of the final manufactured prototype. All A-level specifications in Design and Technology require students to demonstrate their application of knowledge, understanding, and skills of maths and science in both theoretical and practical ways. Design and Technology uses maths and science to support decisions made in the processes of designing and making.