Product Design (Single GCSE)

What are the Key Features?
This course is suitable for students who can critically analyse existing products and enjoy designing and making in a range of materials. Students will be expected to study two materials within the range of paper/card, timber based products, ferrous and nonferrous metals, plastics and control components (mechanical and electronics).

How is the course taught?
A. demonstrate fully their design and technology capability, which requires them to combine skills with knowledge and understanding in order to design and make quality products in quantity.
B. acquire and apply knowledge, skills and understanding through.
• analysing and evaluating products and processes.
• engaging in focused tasks to develop and demonstrate techniques.
• engaging in strategies for developing ideas, planning and producing products.
• considering how past and present design and technology, relevant to a designing and making context, affects society.
• recognising the moral, cultural and environmental issues inherent in design and technology.

How is it assessed?
Like other single award GCSE in Design &Technology, Product Design GCSE will be assesses both internally and externally. Coursework in this subject carries 60% of the total marks which will be internally assessed and externally moderated. In coursework, students are expected to produce a 3D model of their design along with a 20 page A3 portfolio. Exam carries 40% of the total marks and is assessed externally.

Why study this course?
Students who complete this course with a high grade are encouraged to continue their technological studies at A level, which will enable them to gain a place at a range of universities offering the full range of design based degrees.