GCSE Design and Technology

Course summary

Design and Technology enables students to understand and apply iterative design processes through which they explore, create and evaluate a range of outcomes. The qualification enables students to use creativity and imagination to design and make prototypes (together with evidence of modelling to develop and prove product concept and function) that solve real and relevant problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. It gives students’ opportunities to apply knowledge from other disciplines, including Mathematics, Science, Art and Design, Computing and the Humanities. This course is split into two sections: • Technical principles • Design and making The exam includes calculation (at least 15% of the qualification must assess mathematical skills), short-open and open-response questions, as well as extended writing questions that are focused on analysis and evaluation of design decisions and outcomes, against a technical principle for prototypes made by others. Students will need to analyse and evaluate wider issues in Design and Technology, including social, moral, ethical and environmental impacts. For the non-examined assessment three contextual challenges will be provided by the Exam Board on 1st June each year, from which students must choose one and respond to. Who should I speak to about this subject? Mrs Launchbury - Head of Design and Technology (asl@cleeveschool.net) OR Mr Ward (rjw@cleeveschool.net) or Mr Rees (mgr@cleeveschool.net)