Fourth formers are given a foundation course in Design and Technology. This introduces them to the main components of study for the D&T GCSE Resistant Materials course studied by the Removes and Fifth Form.
A brief introduction to sketching, product designing, computer-aided drawing and practical work in a variety of materials is covered. Each boy will complete a practical product and associated course work folder. In the final session, time will be spent on a discussion of the GCSE D&T option offered to the Removes.
Resistant Materials Technology (OCR, 1956)
Pupils will develop and sustain their own innovation and creativity and produce a ‘design, make and evaluate’ product. A wide range of workshop facilities for working in wood, metal and plastics are available for this purpose. A term’s foundation course including design sketching with a number of bench work and machining exercises is followed by the major GCSE design project. Pupils will have access to lathe work, milling, sand casting, welding and timber laminating facilities. For their design folders they will develop their sketching and freehand drawing skills which are enhanced using the computer aided drafting package, ProDESKTOP. Pupils are encouraged to develop an understanding of industrial production and design activities. The project work undertaken over a year makes a major contribution to the final GCSE grade (30% Design folder and 30% Practical) and to meet the deadline in the LQ of the 5th form pupils are expected to plan their work making use of the workshops in the afternoons when necessary. Two externally assessed terminal examinations (40%) will test the pupils’ ability to design and make quality products. GCSE is a prerequisite for A level.
R A Crowsley
Pupils embarking on A Level study in Design and Technology will ordinarily have taken GCSE Design and Technology.
In the first year candidates develop an understanding of a broad range of materials, with emphasis on the life cycle of products, manufacture and final disposal. This specification (Design and Technology: Product design (3-D Design)) also considers the broader issues for the designer including the environmental sustainability of products and consumer safety.
In the second year the specification offers candidates the opportunity to further develop their knowledge and practical skills. Candidates will continue to develop a body of coursework alongside an understanding of the processes and procedures of commercial production and manufacture.
There are four equally weighted units of assessment.
A level Design and Technology is designed to be complementary to Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Business and Management, and Art or to contrast with other subjects such as English, History, Geography, Economics and Modern Languages.
Pupils who choose Design and Technology together with Mathematics and Physics may progress onto Higher Education courses in some form of engineering, product design or architecture. It can also be a useful contributor to further study or work in other related disciplines such as industrial design, interior design and materials science. Past pupils have reported back that they have found the skills and disciplines covered by the A level course of great benefit, especially when they have gone on to read structural architecture or engineering in its various forms.
R.A. Crowsley