Introduction to subject

Design & Technology complements all other subjects as it develops a whole range of study techniques that can be applied equally successfully to other areas. An essential element of the course is to reflect upon the present state of society and formulate solutions to these problems.

Requirements

It is useful to have studied the same GCSE focus area( i.e. Resistant Materials, Graphics or Textiles) as you wish to study at A level and should have achieved an A*, A or B grade at GCSE.

Students need to be curious, artistic and imaginative in the designing of possible solutions to real problems. They will also need the skill and determination to overcome problems which arise in the realisation of their solutions. Time planning and organisation therefore become key skills that need to be developed to a high degree during the courses.

What could this lead to?

There is a vast range of careers that can be followed having studied a Design & Technology course. We regularly have students who go on to study architecture, engineering, product design, graphic design, illustration, animation and computer sciences.

ADVANCED SUBSIDIARY

DT1
Examination Paper (40% AS, 15% A2) 2 Hr
This paper will contain two sections which will assess candidates' knowledge and understanding drawn from the subject content for one focus are listed under: 3.1.1 Designing and innovation; 3.1.2 Product Analysis; 3.2.1 Materials and components; 3.2.2 Industrial and commercial practice.

Section A questions require short answer: Section B questions require open-ended type responses.

DT2
Design and make tasks (60% AS, 20% A2) approximately 60 Hours
Candidates will submit a portfolio of work and one integrated task which satisfy the Advanced Subsidiary design and make tasks assessment criteria. The component is marked by the centre and moderated by the WJEC

ADVANCED (the above plus the following AS units)

DT3
Examination Paper (20% A2) 2.5 Hours
This paper will contain two sections and assesses candidate' knowledge and understanding drawn from the whole of the subject content for one focus area listed in Section 3. Section A questions require short answers and specifically address the A2 subject content list under: 3.1.3 Human responsibility; 3.1.4 Public interaction; 3.2.3 Processes; 3.2.4 Production systems and control

Section B questions require short answers, but form part of the synoptic assessment and therefore assess the whole subject content; Section C questions require open-ended essay type responses and are also synoptic.

DT4
Project (30% A2) approximately 60 hours
Candidates will undertake a single substantial project. Each year the WJEC will set eight themes for the project, though candidates may also submit their own proposals for approval. The project requires candidates to demonstrate the integration of designing and making skills and knowledge and understanding. A Level candidates are expected to take increased responsibility for the identification of appropriate work and the management of their project.