AS & A2 Technology
This specification is designed to offer students opportunities to study, propose and realise prototype solutions closely linked to the real world of product manufacture in a range of material areas.
Candidates are encouraged to develop innovation, creativity and Technology and Design capability with a critical understanding of the influences of manufacturing processes in current practice. They will be required to apply essential knowledge, understanding and design skills to a range of technological activities.
The coursework has a strong practical bias, from the expression of ideas practically, to the making of three dimensional models and the production of a high quality product.
Course content
This specification is designed to offer students opportunities to study, propose and realise prototype solutions closely linked to the real world of product manufacture in a range of material areas.
Candidates are encouraged to develop innovation, creativity and Technology and Design capability with a critical understanding of the influences of manufacturing processes in current practice. They will be required to apply essential knowledge, understanding and design skills to a range of technological activities.
The coursework has a strong practical bias, from the expression of ideas practically, to the making of three dimensional models and the production of a high quality product.
Examining Board – OCR
AS
Unit 1: Written Exam
50% of AS
Candidates will be required to:
- Analyse existing solutions
- Demonstrate applied mathematical skills
- Apply understanding of materials, product functionality and manufacturing techniques
- Demonstrate their understanding of industrial impact on social, moral and environmental issues
- Demonstrate their problem solving ability
Unit 2: Product Development
50% of AS
This consists of product analysis and development, prototype modelling and testing. Candidates will undertake a product development in response to a given context. The non-exam assessment will deliver iterative and innovative improvements to existing solutions which will be tested against the users and market.
A2
Unit 1: Written Exam – paper 1
26.7% of A2
The questions in this exam paper will predominantly focus on technical principals.
Unit 2: Written Exam – paper 2
23.3% of A2
This written exam consists of a series of longer answers questions that require learners to demonstrate their problem solving and critical thinking skills
Unit 3: Iterative Design Project
50% of A2
Candidates will undertake a substantial design, make and evaluate project centred on the iterative processes of explore create and evaluate.
Facilities & Resources
The Technology Department comprises 3 well equipped workshops, enabling students to work with a wide range of materials including wood, metal, plastic and a range of other modelling materials. There are also two system rooms, and a ICT room with 10 computers offering pupils the opportunity to use all standard packages plus simulation software and Computer Aided Design in 2D and 3D. Pupils will have access to a variety of equipment including 3D printers, CNC routers and laser cutters. We have well stocked stores which allow pupils a wide choice of materials and components.
Careers & Further Study
Technology and Design provides a solid foundation for study at a higher level in a range of Engineering and Industrial Design careers. Those who combine it with Art can go on to design related subjects such as Product Design, Graphic Design and Interior Design. It is a problem solving subject and will be useful no matter what career you take, as it teaches you to work through a problem methodically.
Teaching Methods
Technology and Design is taught using the full range of teaching methods; independent learning; group work; one to one; class work; and practical work. We make extensive use of the school’s computer network along with video, DVD and other ICT equipment. Students will have the opportunity to visit a number of manufacturing facilities during the two-year course.
Assessment Methods
This is a continuous process. Coursework is broken down into discreet sections which need to be completed by a given date. End of module tests are set as appropriate.
