Design and Technology (Product Design)

Assessment

A Level Product Design is assessed through a 50% Non-Exam Assessment, whereby an electronic portfolio is submitted, along with a single high-quality practical outcome. The examination is in two parts; Paper 1 is 30% (2 hours and 30 minutes, and Paper 2 is 20% (1 hour and 30 minutes and is marked externally). The NEA, which will make up 50% of the final grade, consists of a traditional design and make activity but a greater focus is placed on designing for a commercial client. Pupils should aim to work with a range of materials and consider how their product could be adapted for larger-scale production. Maths skills will be 15% of the total qualification and will be the equivalent of a higher tier in a GCSE qualification in mathematics. All students must have a device with Microsoft Windows operating system to enable access to CAD/CAM programs throughout their A-level course.