Design Technology A level
Design and Technology offers a unique opportunity in the curriculum for learners to identify and solve real problems by designing and making products or systems. Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject.
This specification encourages learners to use creativity and imagination when applying iterative design processes to develop and modify designs, and to design and make prototypes that solve real world problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants, aspirations and values.
How will I be assessed? (Assessment)
AS Unit 1: Written paper 1. Written examination: 2 hours 20% of qualification 80 marks. Learners take an examination in one of the following endorsed areas: engineering design, fashion and textiles, product design.
AS Unit 2: Design and make task Non-exam assessment: approximately 40 hours 20% of qualification 80 marks. A design and make task, based on a brief developed by the candidate, assessing the candidate's ability to: identify, investigate and outline design possibilities; design and make prototypes; analyse and evaluate design decisions and wider issues in design and technology. The design and make task will be based within the same endorsed area as the written examination.
A2 Unit 3: A2 Unit 3: Written paper 2 Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes 30% of qualification 100 marks. Learners take a single examination in one of the following endorsed areas: engineering design, fashion and textiles, product design.
A2 Unit 4: Design and make project Non-exam assessment: approximately 60 hours 30% of qualification 100 marks. A sustained design and make project, based on a brief developed by the candidate, assessing the candidate's ability to: identify, investigate and outline design possibilities; design and make prototypes; analyse and evaluate design decisions and wider issues in design and technology. The design and make project will be based within the same endorsed area as the written examination.
What kind of work will I do outside the classroom?
Additional research and practical skill development in DT Club and at home.
What could I do at the end of my course? (Progressions)
This specification provides a suitable foundation for the study of design and technology or a related area through a range of higher education courses, progression to the next level of vocational qualifications or employment. In addition, the specification provides a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for learners who do not progress to further study in this subject.
Entry Requirements: Studied DT.
