Design and Technology is a very practical and dynamic subject in which pupils will work individually, in teams and with Partners in Industry to develop their skills. A wide range of activities take place, from projects lasting one lesson to those that could take 3 months or more.
Our aim is to enable all pupils to achieve their best no matter what their ability.
We aim to do this in a fun way whist still developing their capabilities in a series of ever increasing challenges using the National Curriculum programmes of study.
As a department we will make it a priority to develop and incorporate Business and Enterprise activities and the issues of in designing and making where appropriate.
Follow this link to the programme of study for Design and Technology.
KS3 Design & Technology In D&T we cover 4 main areas of study: - 1.Designing 2.Making 3.Evaluating 4.Technical Knowledge This will be achieved through a series of projects that will involve students completing a series of lessons and projects that will see them: -
Problem Solving
Designing through sketching and modelling
Learning about Forces and stresses
Learning about Functionality and aesthetics
Exploring innovation through iterative design
Making and designing Mechanical systems and movement
3D printing and prototyping
1.Designing
Use research and exploration, such as the study of different cultures, to identify and understand user needs
Identify and solve their own design problems and understand how to reformulate problems given to them
Develop specifications to inform the design of innovative, functional, appealing products that respond to needs in a variety of situations
Use a variety of approaches [for example, biomimicry and user-centred design], to generate creative ideas and avoid stereotypical responses
Develop and communicate design ideas using annotated sketches, detailed plans, 3D and mathematical modelling, oral and digital presentations and computer-based tools
2.Making
Select from and use specialist tools, techniques, processes, equipment and machinery precisely, including computer-aided manufacture
Select from and use a wider, more complex range of materials, components and ingredients, taking into account their properties
3.Evaluating
Investigate new and emerging technologies
Test, evaluate and refine their ideas and products against a specification, taking into account the views of intended users and other interested groups
Understand developments in design and technology, its impact on individuals, society and the environment, and the responsibilities of designers, engineers and technologists
4.Technical knowledge
Understand and use the properties of materials and the performance of structural elements to achieve functioning solution
Understand how more advanced mechanical systems used in their products enable changes in movement and force
Understand how more advanced electrical and electronic systems can be powered and used in their products [for example, circuits with heat, light, sound and movement as inputs and outputs]