Design and Technology (Product Design)

Assessment

Component 1: Principles of Product Design Weighting: 26.7% of A Level Exam - 1 hour 30 min The ‘Principles’ examination paper is worth 26.7% (80 marks) of the A-level qualification and assesses analysis of existing products, technical knowledge and understanding of materials, mathematics skills, product functionality, manufacturing processes, and techniques. Component 2: Problem-Solving Weighting: 23.3% of A Level Exam – 1 hour 45 min The ‘Problem Solving’ paper is worth 23.3% (70 marks) of the A Level qualification and requires learners to apply their knowledge and understanding through higher level thinking skills, reflecting on the viability of products and possible design solutions. Component 3: Iterative Design Project Weighting: 50% of A Level In Year 13 you will commence a non-examined ‘Iterative Design Project’, a substantial design, make, and evaluate project centered on the iterative processes of exploring, creating, and evaluating. It is worth 50% of the A Level qualification. You will be required to identify a design opportunity or problem from a context of your own choice and create a chronological portfolio supported by real–time evidence of your project development. Innovative approaches will be required resulting in a final prototype that can be tested against the user and the market. In the first year of this course, you will take part in a range of design and make activities and projects to build on your designing and manufacturing skills in preparation for your A Level coursework project which commences following the Easter holidays in Year 12.