Clayesmore

Sixth Form A-level Courses Design and Technology

Design and Technology

Board: Edexcel

Syllabus: AS – 8RM01; A2 – 9RM01

Modules

1. AS Portfolio of Creative Skills – In this coursework unit candidates are given the opportunity to develop their creative, technical and practical skills through a series of product investigation, design and manufacturing activities.
2. Design and Technology in Practice – This deals with the knowledge and understanding of a wide range of materials and processes used in the field of design and technology.
3. A2 Designing for the Future –This deals with the knowledge and understanding of a range of modern design and manufacturing practices. Contemporary design issues and influential historical designers are explored.
4. Commercial Design – A coursework unit in which candidates are given an opportunity to design and manufacture a product of their own choice, following an approach close to that of a commercial product designer.

Method of Assessment

AS Coursework with 20 to 30 A3 sheets of folder work (30%) and one written examination of 1 hour 30 minutes (20%)

A2 Coursework with 25 to 30 A3 sheets of folder work (30%) and one written examination of 2 hours (20%)

Further information

The examinations at both AS and A2 consist of short-answer and
a few extended-writing type questions. Coursework at AS consists
of three distinct folder sections dealing with different design
and manufacturing skills. Together these form the “Portfolio”.
Coursework at A2 consists of a design folder and the resulting
manufactured product.

It is usually a requirement to have a GCSE in the field of Design
and Technology in order to take A Level in this subject, but
where a pupil can prove good practical and graphical skills have
been acquired elsewhere, and that they are very well motivated,
there is no reason why they shouldn’t do well. The best qualities
for success in this subject are a determination to succeed, a
willingness to work in the department outside lessons and a desire
to solve problems.

Design and Technology at A Level will develop skills which are
of use to you in many careers. Your technical knowledge of
commercial practices, materials, processes, computer aided
design, graphical communication and creative problem solving
will be relevant to careers in media, advertising, product design,
manufacturing, business, theatre, jewellery, automotive and
maritime design. Many Architecture and Engineering courses
regard an A level in Design and Technology as a good subject to
have studied at school.