Design and Technology (Product Design)

Course summary

Year 12 Students focus on developing confidence in the workshop and building an in-depth knowledge of materials and processes, designing and the development of prototype design concepts, through a selection of mini projects and assessments. This aims to prepare students for the exams and controlled assessment in Year 13. Some of the topics covered include; performance characteristics of materials, digital design and manufacture (Autodesk Inventor), health and safety, product life cycle, design processes, critical analysis, and evaluation. Year 13 Students embark on their final major project which requires them to develop a substantial portfolio worth 50% of the final grade. This is an opportunity for students to showcase their designing and making skills and their understanding of designing for specific markets and individuals. Students are required to make a working prototype model to showcase their design solution after carrying out focused research and design development. Exam theory continues alongside this in preparation for the final examinations at the end of the course.