A-level Design and Technology: Product Design
Examination Board: OCR
Introduction and Structure
This qualification emphasises two key factors — creativity and sustainability. We want students to explore ideas of originality and value, to question and challenge, to envisage what could be, but equally we need them to achieve the results that will progress their careers. This qualification structure allows students to develop a range of skills and outcomes which demonstrates their creativity and apply these to a design and make project.
All modern designers have to consider sustainable issues when designing new products. A sign of the modern technological age in which we live is that human actions have had a negative impact on our environment. New products provide solutions rather than add to the existing problems of extractions and use of natural resources, pollution from manufacturing and disposal of large amounts of waste products.
Good design is vital to our world and economy and this course seeks to develop students’ knowledge, understanding, skills and application for designing products. Product design encompasses a wide range of design disciplines but is firmly rooted in the skills required to design and make high quality products that are fit for purpose, satisfy wants and needs, enhance our day-today lives and, most importantly, give students the opportunity to demonstrate their design and technology capability.
Unit 1: Portfolio of Creative Skills
In this unit students are given the opportunity to develop their creative, technical and practical skills through a series of product investigation, design and manufacturing activities. Students will produce one portfolio with three distinct sections which will demonstrate their creativity and flair when investigating, designing and making product(s).
This unit has been designed to be as flexible as possible, offering students a wide range of valid approaches in producing their portfolio of creative skills. Students are encouraged to be as creative as possible and there are no barriers to choices of product investigation, product design or product manufacture, as long as the work submitted by students targets assessment criteria effectively and at the correct level of response for their abilities.
Unit 2: Design and Technology in Practice
In this unit students will develop their knowledge and understanding of a wide range of materials and processes used in the field of Design and Technology. It is important for students, as designers, to learn about materials and processes so that they can develop a greater understanding of how products can be designed and manufactured. Students will also learn about industrial and commercial practices, and the importance of quality checks and the health and safety issues that have to be considered at all times.
Unit 3: Designing for the Future
In this unit students will develop their knowledge and understanding of a range of modern design and manufacturing practices and contemporary design issues. The modern designer must have a good working knowledge of the use of ICT and systems and control technology in the design and manufacture of products. They must also be aware of the important contributions of designers from the past which may provide inspiration for future design. It is increasingly important that students develop an awareness of the impact of design and technological activities on the environment. Sustainable product design is a key feature of modern design practices.
Unit 4: Commercial Design
In this unit students are given the opportunity to apply the skills they have acquired and developed throughout this course of study, to design and make a product of their choice that comply with the requirements. In order to reach high attainment levels, students must adopt a commercial design approach to their work, reflecting how a professional designer might deal with a design problem and its resolution. A key feature of this unit is that students consider issues related to sustainability and the impact their product may have on the environment. Sustainable issues include materials production and selection, manufacturing processes, use of the product and its disposal/recycling.
Assessment
Unit 1 – Portfolio of Creative Skills
30% of A-level
This unit is internally set and marked by the centre and externally moderated.
Unit 2 – Design and Technology in Practice
20% of A-level
1 hour 30 minute examination externally set and marked.
The paper will be a question and answer booklet, consisting of short-answer and extended-writing type questions, all of which are compulsory.
Unit 3 – Designing for the Future
20% A-level
2-hour examination paper externally set and marked.
The paper will be a question and answer booklet, consisting of short-answer and extended-writing type questions, all of which are compulsory.
Unit 4 – Commercial Design
30% of A-level
This unit is internally set and marked by the centre and externally moderated.
Students are given the opportunity to design and make a product of their choice. This unit results in the development of an appropriate product supported by a design folder.
Careers and Progression
This qualification supports progression into further education, training or employment, such as any appropriate design-related or engineering course. Design based occupations include graphic design, product design, architecture, industrial design, art and interior design with excellent opportunities at degree level. Design and engineering professionals are highly respected and careers in these fields can be highly paid, creative, interesting and rewarding. Designers and engineers are the best placed people to make a difference to society by developing innovative new products, communications, infrastructure and systems.
Entrance Requirements
Minimum requirement: 6 GCSEs Grades 9-4 (or equivalent), including Grade 4 or above in English and maths
Strongly recommended: Grade 5 in maths
Recommended: Grade 5 in D&T product design and/or engineering