Product Design
Design and Technology: Product Design A Level
The course builds on knowledge and skills developed in years 10 and 11 as part of GCSE Technology. A Level Design Technology follows the AQA syllabus and is called “Design Technology: Product Design”
This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers. Especially those in the creative industries.
You will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning into practice by producing products of your choice.
You will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers.
Course Format
The two-year course is split into 3 units.
Paper 1
What’s assessed?
Core technical principles and core designing principles.
How is it assessed?
Written exam: 2 hours
100 marks
25% of A level
Questions
Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended principles
Paper 2
What’s assessed?
Specialist knowledge, technical and designing and making principles.
How is it assessed?
Written exam: 2 hours
100 marks
25% of A level
Questions
Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended principles.
Section A:
Product Analysis: Up to 6 short answer questions based on visual stimulus of product(s).
Section B:
Commercial manufacture: Mixture of short and extended response questions.
Non – exam assessment (controlled assessment)
What’s assessed?
Practical application of technical principles, designing and making principles and specialist knowledge.
How it’s assessed?
Substantial design and make task.
45 hours
100 marks
50% of A level
Evidence
Written or digital design portfolio and photographic evidence or final prototype.
What Entry Requirements Do I Need?
A "B" grade in any Technology subject. These comprise of Resistant Materials, Graphic Products, Systems and Control or Product Design. You will be expected to have achieved a grade 4 minimum in Maths and English but a grade 5 would be more desirable.
In the controlled assessment unit, assessment is carried out by the teaching staff in school and then by external moderation.
How Will I Be Assessed?
In paper 1 and 2, assessment is through external examination. In units 2 and 4, assessment is carried out by the teaching staff in school (local) and then by external moderation.
What Will I Learn On This Course?
The course focuses on Industrial Design. Students are taught how to utilise the DESIGN PROCESS and apply a variety of presentation and graphical techniques, to a professional level, in both freehand and electronic form. On the manufacturing front, students will develop high level hand, CAD and CAM skills which relate to modern technological processes. All students will develop a deep understanding of modern technologies, materials and contemporary design and manufacturing procedures.
The course provides the student with an experiential approach to the teaching and learning of DESIGN and TECHNOLOGY in its broadest sense.
What Kind Of Person Studies This Course?
This subject best suits the individual who is creative, innovative, self-motivated, highly skilled in designing and/or making and who has a genuine interest in the subject.
Where Will An A Level In Product Design (3D Design) Lead Me?
The course will provide the successful student with a platform for a whole host of post 18 career paths and degree courses in the exciting world of Product Design. The course will also equip the student with a range of transferrable skills in ICT, communication skills through meeting clients and also research skills. The student will also gain valuable skills in time management and organisation.
Financial Contribution
Due to the personal practical nature of the course, you may decide to purchase your own designing equipment and materials.