Design and Technology

Design and Technology
Features of the study programme largely involve issues relating to design and innovation; product analysis; materials and components. Throughout the course, these elements will identify factors directly associated with industrial and commercial practice. During your studies we will help you expand your vision when designing innovative, desirable and sustainable products. You will also be encouraged to use modern multimedia and design technologies.AS D&T is assessed in two distinct categories:

DT1 20% (2 hours) Product Design Examination Paper
This written 2 hour paper will contain two sections that will assess students' knowledge and understanding drawn from features identified above. This component is externally assessed by the WJEC.

DT2 30% (Approx 60 hours) Design & Make Task
A coursework project which is primarily a design and make task. Students will submit a portfolio of work addressing the'Design Process' together with a fully realised working artefact. This component is marked by D&T staff; it is then moderated by a WJEC examiner.

A2
DT 3 Written examination paper 20% (2.5 hours)
The written examination at the end of second year will focus on matters pertaining to design and make issues particularly those related to: human responsibility; public interaction; processes; production systems and control. This component is externally assessed by the WJEC. Students will build on their AS experiences and offer responses to a single substantial major project. Each year the WJEC outline 8 themes. From these 8 options, individuals choose one and are assessed as follows:

DT 4 Major Project 30% (Approx 60 hours)
The project requires candidates to demonstrate the integration of designing and making skills and knowledge and understanding. This component is marked by D&T staff; it is then moderated by a WJEC examiner.Although Design and Technology is a valuable stand alone A Level, it's also considered to be a useful accompaniment for a range of subjects:Art & Design - for those considering a future in graphic design, product design, concept design and illustration. This also combines well with Geography to enhance possibilities for those interested in architecture.Combined with ICT or Computing, D&T also provides pathways for those wishing to excel in modern draughting facilities. The construction industry is seeking people with flair, who possess the skills necessary to model structures and examine potential stresses in a virtual environment.D&T provides an appreciation of project management and manufacturing processes for those considering a career in an engineering discipline. Combine D&T with Mathematics and any science subject to advance your preferred engineering option.Problem solving is a dominant feature of Design and Technology. As such, individuals who can'think outside the box' are in much demand across a variety of situations.

Results
SUMMER 2009
A - E grade: 94%
Highlights: The retention rate for this course is above the national figure.

Examination Board WJEC