KS4 Options Booklet 2026-2028

Exams and Assessment Information • Undertaking a single ‘design and make’ activity, which will arise from investigating a contextual challenge set by AQA. (50% of final grade). Students should submit a prototype and a concise portfolio • A 2 hour written exam, 100 marks (50% of final grade). Students must also demonstrate mathematical and scientific knowledge and understanding, in relation to design and technology, maths and science knowledge contributes 15% What will I learn about? • CAD/ CAM (Computer Aided Design/ Manufacture) via various software packages and the use of CNC machinery such as the 3D printer, laser cutter and CNC lathe • Designing and making using creativity and originality using a wide range of materials, processes and techniques • Design movements throughout history, famous designers and their associated iconic products • Manufacturing commercially viable products (in quantity) using appropriate industrial processes • The impact modern products have upon the environment and how we have a moral responsibility to address this • Structures and Mechanisms. DESIGN TECHNOLOGY How will I learn? • The course is divided into 50% design and make projects and 50% theory lessons • You will practice CAD using SolidWorks and Illustrator • You will make prototypes out of various materials in the workshop • Your creative problem-solving skills will be developed through various design challenges • Gaining skills in a range of technical drawing techniques along with rendering design ideas • Analysing existing products and understanding what makes them successful or unsuccessful Where could Design Technology take me? • There is no better time to think about a career in the field of design and Britain has always produced world-class designers such as: Sir Jonathan Ive (Apple); James Dyson (Product Designer); Sir Norman Foster (Architecture); Richard Seymour & Dick Powell (Product Design) and Ian Callum (Automotive) to name but a few. • Our creativity is a key strength of our economy, and British designers are among the best in the world. Course Specification & further information • AQA GCSE Design Technology 8552 • www.aqa.org.uk/rn/askaqa.php • www.technologystudent.com Additional Costs and Entry Requirements • A voluntary financial contribution towards the cost of resources for projects • There are no specific entry requirements for Design Technology 2