Design and Technology

What will students learn? 

Students learn to design and make products that solve genuine, relevant problems within different contexts whilst considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. To do this effectively, they will acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on additional disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. They will explore a range of materials and skills through project based modules of systems & control (electronics), resistant materials, textiles, CAD/CAM and Food Preparation and Nutrition.  They will undertake a range of projects including:

Year 7

Graphics based project - Students will learn skills in a range of drawing techniques such as perspective and isometric drawing.  Starting with a problem and brief, students will create a 3D poster using graphic techniques such as drawing, colour rendering, typography, cutting and layering to create a high quality outcome.

Pewter and acrylic Key ring project - Creatively exploring design opportunities within which to create a product for a specified target market.  This skills focused project looks at metals and plastics with theory linked to ferrous and non ferrous metals.  Students will make casting mould by hand and learn how to shape, form and finish both plastics and metals

Food Preparation and Nutrition - Students will understand the importance of a healthy balanced diet while learning how to make a variety of predominantly savoury dishes that use a range of fruits and vegetables. Dishes include couscous salad, savoury scones, banana bread etc.

CAD/CAM - Students are encouraged to use CAD software to present ideas and manufacture as an extension to their projects throughout KS3. They will learn software tools such as 2D design for laser cut prototyping outcomes and SketchUp for 3D modelling 

Textile and Systems and control(electronics) project - In this combined project, students will learn soldering skills and understand the function of components used in electronic systems.  They will then develop their electronics by designing and creating a case for the light using textile materials.  

Year 8

Mini project - A multi skilled project that allows students to work in groups to manufacture an electronic moving min car.  They will develop previous skills such as soldering and using workshop machinery whilst researching the history of the Mini and theory related to manufacturing processes. 

Moving toy project - Students will learn how mechanisms work by designing and making a wooden moving toy.  This project asks students to think about the needs of the user to design an interactive toy.  The theory looks at differences between manufactured and natural timbers, CAMs and manufacturing with wood which is taught through class lessons and practicals.

Amplifier project - Students will make an electronic circuit for a stereo amplifier and then create an innovative design to house components and speakers.  This will challenge students to think creatively and explore sustainability and resourcefulness with materials as well as considering how best to enhance the acoustics of the speaker.

Food Preparation and Nutrition - Students recap the importance of a healthy balanced diet and look closely into hydration and micronutrients and their impact on the body. Students develop practical skills further using a range of staple food ingredients. Dishes include pasta arrabiata, pizza swirls, puff pastry plaits etc.

Year 9

Innovation project - This student led project allows pupils to create a lighting or clock that has innovation at the core.  They will investigate existing products, explore new materials and prototype ideas using card and other materials to develop their ideas.  Students are encouraged to experiment and test ideas using a range of skills which can also include CAD/CAM, electronics, textiles and resistant materials.

Architectural design - Students to explore architecture through a variety of research activities which give them an insight into architectural materials, the relevance of sustainability in the 21st century, inspirational architects and investigating different genres in architecture. Students are given a choice of three design briefs to answer through the iterative design process, resulting in creating a 3D prototype, CAD drawings and design sheets. Students are encouraged to be creative, seek inspiration from the world around them and take risks, challenging themselves to create designs which are innovative and inspirational. 

Design challenge - Students will collaboratively work together in pairs to explore different design solutions in order to answer the brief set around the theme of ‘Care’ During this project, students will be immersing themselves to body storm and physically test and experience their prototypes through object based learning, improving their understanding and influence of ergonomics. The students develop a critical approach to making decisions focusing on a user centred solution. 

Food Preparation and Nutrition - Students recap the importance of a healthy balanced diet and look closely into facts that affect food choice. Students develop their practical ability further by increasing their technical skills set. Students learn to make dishes from different cultures including moroccan chicken, chow mein, macaroni cheese and lasagne

How will they be assessed?

KS3

  • All projects are assessed on the students understanding of the materials and skills used, their design solutions and investigation through iteration and the making of their outcome or prototype

  • A4P (Assessment for progress) based on class work, home learning, engagement and practical outcomes

  • Questioning, group presentations and class discussions

  • Peer and verbal feedback from class teachers

  • Meeting personalised and individual targets set by the teacher 

  • Investigation of design tasks and finding solutions

  • Formative assessment of using the correct tools, measuring and marking, selection of materials and use of key terminology.  Adhering to health and safety in the workshop

  • Evaluation of outcome against specification criteria

  • Home learning set on google classroom and revision for spelling tests and keyword definitions for all projects completed

Home Learning

KS3

  • Independent and group research tasks using the internet, libraries and alternative resources e.g. research tasks on Mini cars

  • Design Work - creativity in producing design ideas for projects and annotating ideas with strengths and weaknesses. These are completed in either their design journals or A3 design sheets

  • Attending workshop sessions during lunch hour to work on practical outcomes.

  • Evaluative work - Testing their practical outcomes outside of the school environment and gaining user feedback. Comments of users and reflection of the project

  • A range of reading tasks are set for the different areas of DT to help broaden and widen students understanding of topics

  • Sourcing and preparing ingredients for practical lessons in Food Preparation and Nutrition

How can parents support their child?

KS3

The Design Technology department encourages parents to involve themselves in their child’s learning by:

  • Checking the quality of your child’s home learning. Have they used their allocated time effectively?

  • Encourage your child to problem solve around the home and the wider community

  • Ask them what their current target is and how they can achieve it; what will success look like?

  • Where possible, involve your child in cultural experiences such as visits to the theatre, museums and city tours

  • Encourage your child to use the practical skills they learn in their food lessons independently at home

  • In year 9, discuss with pupils about making informed choices for their GCSE options. At GCSE level, Design and Technology promotes creativity and innovation and aims to harness skills through promoting independent learning and challenging learners' perception of the world they live in