Technology

KS 3
About the course
Students experience a range of projects throughout KS3 that will prepare them for GCSE and A Level. Our aim is for students to produce quality products that they are proud to take home.

What they will learn
Students will experience a range of projects that include wood work, graphic design, electronics, metal work, plastics, smart materials and Computer Aided Design and Manufacture (CAD/CAM).

How it will be assessed
We assess students against the QCA National Curriculum for Design and Technology.

 __________________________________________

KS 4
About the course
Students can choose from either Graphic Products or Resistant Materials.
Both courses are suitable for creative students who enjoy designing and making products. Graphic Products is aimed at students who have an interest in designing, drawing and modelling, whereas Resistant Materials is aimed at students who enjoy making products from wood, metals and plastics. Students in both subject areas will become competent in CAD/CAM during the 2 year course.

What they will learn
In Graphic Products students will be expected to research, design, develop and make creative products from graphical materials. Project themes include architectural models, pop up books, promotional items, corporate identity, packaging, signs and display.

Resistant Materials students will be expected to research, design, develop and make creative products from resistant materials (wood, metals and plastics). Project themes include lighting, educational toys, travel and storage.

In both subject areas, students will learn about materials, components and systems including how products are manufactured in industry and issues surrounding sustainability. They are also expected to demonstrate high level skills for design, using both hand drawn methods and Computer Aided Design.

How it will be assessed
Both GCSEs are split into 4 assessed units:
Unit 1: Introduction to Designing and Making (30%) –coursework unit where students design and make a prototype product (controlled assessment)
Unit 2: Sustainable Design (20%) – examination
Unit 3: Making Quality Products (30%) – coursework unit with the emphasis on practical work and making a product of high quality (controlled assessment)
Unit 4: (20%) Technical Aspects of Designing and Making – examination

Exam board
OCR Specification: J306 GCSE Resistant Materials
OCR Specification: J303 GCSE Graphic Products

 __________________________________________

KS 5
About the course
Students will be expected to identify and research needs and problems and develop their own ideas and solutions with creativity and flair. Students will use hand drawn methods and Computer Aided Design to develop and model their ideas and will need to demonstrate high level making skills. We have excellent CAD/CAM facilities which students use to produce professional products including Solid Works and the Adobe Suite, MDX40, Laser Cutter, Versa Camm, GX24, CNC Router, and A1 and A3 printers.

What they will learn
This course is focused on designing and making a range of contemporary products and can include product design, packaging design, architecture and interior design.

How it will be assessed
There are two units for AS over a one year period and four units for A2 over two years. The coursework is worth 60% and written examination 40%.

Exam board
Edexcel

Future Career Paths in subject
Education
Many university and college courses are available to students of Design and Technology at AS or A Level and there are many potential career opportunities, some of which are: Graphic Design, Product Design, Mechanical Engineering, Art Editing, Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Surveying, Animating, Website Design.

Employment
Graphic Designer, Product Designer, Mechanical Engineer, Art Editor, Architect, Interior Designer, Landscape Architect, Surveyor, Animator, Website Designer.

Head of Department:
Ms Rivers

Email:
riversm@cfbs.islington.sch.uk

  __________________________________________

HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS

Year 8

• Year 8 Technology Homework Deadlines 2012
• Task 1
• Task 2
• Task 3
• Task 4

Year 9

• Year 9 Technology Homework Deadlines 2011 to 2012
• Task 1
• Task 2
• Task 3
• Task 4
• Task 5
• Task 6

Please contact Ms Rivers if you have any queries.