Click here to ask a question about Product Design

 

What does the course involve?

This course provides an exciting opportunity to gain the skills and qualifications required for a career in design. The world we live in is surrounded by design in many different forms. It may be the products we use or the buildings we live in. It could be the cars we drive or the clothes we wear. A career in design has so many variations and possibilities to explore. We aim to teach you the practical skills and technical knowledge to help you recognise the areas of design that are most suited to you.

 

Students will develop a knowledge and understanding of a wide range of materials and processes used in the field of design and technology. It is important for students, as designers, to learn about materials and processes so that they can develop a greater understanding of how products can be designed and manufactured. Students will also learn about industrial and commercial practices, and the importance of quality checks and the health and safety issues that always have to be considered.

Furthermore, students are expected to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding in design and practical areas. This will be realised through a coursework unit where a substantial design and make exercise must be developed through a portfolio and final practical outcome.

 

Assessment:

PAPER 1

Core technical principles and core designing and making principles.

• Written exam: 2 hours 30 mins
• 120 marks
• 30% of A-level

Questions

Mixture of short and extended response.

 

PAPER 2

Specialist knowledge, technical and designing and making principles.

• Written exam: 1 hour 30 mins
• 80 marks
• 20% of A-level

Questions

Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended response questions.

Section A:

• Product Analysis.
• Up to 6 short answer questions based on visual stimulus of product(s).

Section B:

• Commercial manufacture.
• Mixture of short and extended response questions

 

 NON EXAMINED ASSESSMENT (NEA) COURSEWORK

Practical application of technical principles, designing and making principles and specialist

knowledge.

How it’s assessed

• Substantial design and make task
• 45 hours
• 100 marks
• 50% of A-level

Evidence

Written or digital design portfolio and photographic evidence of final prototype.

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GCSE GRADE PROFILE

Students who study Product Design must have achieved five GCSE grades from 9 – 4 and preferably at least a grade 5 in Design and Technology.

CAREER POSSIBILITIES

An Advanced Level in Product Design would be good grounding in 3D design and materials/processes technology for anyone considering a for a degree in subjects such as 3D Design, Product Design, Automotive Design, Industrial Design, Architecture and Engineering. Alternatively you could choose to study for a Foundation Art course or it would also support students considering entry into employment in these and related areas.

We hope you have found the subject videos useful. If you would like to contact the subject leader directly please click on the link above.

Click here to access a Product Design bridging task