Resistant Materials

KEY STAGE 3

In Year 9, students study specific modules that demonstrate the individual characteristics of the Design Technology disciplines we offer at GCSE. The purpose of this is so they can make informed choices at GCSE. The content of these courses is reviewed annually in line with the changes in the GCSE specifications.

At the end of the year students complete an enterprise task called Sustainable Souvenirs where they work in teams to produce a batch of sustainable souvenirs for a local organisation such as The National Trust, Exmoor National Park Authority or Tropiquaria.

KEY STAGE 4

Resistant Materials

This is a new course designed for those with an interest in a wide range of practical activities.  The course is best suited to students who have a lively and enquiring mind, an interest in engineering and a willingness to explore, develop and communicate new ideas.

Students can expect to combine classroom learning with practical activity and project work as they develop both their design and practical skills.  Much of the course will be taught through practical assignments.  Product studies and workplace visits are also an important aspect of the course.

This is a single tiered course allowing students to achieve the full range of grades fron A*-G and is made up of four units:

  • Unit 1: Introduction to Designing and Making (30% of the overall marks)
  • Unit 2: Sustainable Design (20% of the overall marks)
  • Unit 3: Making Quality Products (30% of the overall mark)
  • Unit 4: Tecnical aspects of Design and Making (20% of the overall mark)

KEY STAGE 5

The new OCR Design Technology A Level has been designed to meet the needs of all students studying Design Technology. Students studying any one of the five GCSE disciplines we offer will find opportunities for extended study in this course.

The course comprises four units:

  • Unit 1: Advanced Innovation Challenge. Worth 20% of the A level, this is a six hour design and make activity

  • Unit 2: Product Study. Worth 30%. this is an opportunity to develop a remodelled product

  • Unit 3: Design, make and Evaluate. Worth 30% this is an opportunity to design and make a new product for a client.

  • Unit 4: Product Design. Worth 20%, this is a written exam with questiond specific to the intersts of the students - i.e. food, systems, textiles, engineering etc