Key Stage 4
Key Stage 4: Years 10 to 11 (14-16 years old)
The study of design and technology seeks to prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world; and be aware of, and learn from, wider influences on design and technology, including historical, social/cultural, environmental and economic factors. GCSE design and technology specifications must enable students to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise, in order to:
- demonstrate their understanding that all design and technological activity takes place within contexts that influence the outcomes of design practice
- develop realistic design proposals as a result of the exploration of design opportunities and users’ needs, wants and values.
- use imagination, experimentation and combine ideas when designing
- develop the skills to critique and refine their own ideas whilst designing and making.
- communicate their design ideas and decisions using different media and techniques, as appropriate for different audiences at key points in their designing.
- develop decision making skills, including the planning and organisation of time and resources when managing their own project work.
- develop a broad knowledge of materials, components and technologies and practical skills to develop high quality, imaginative and functional prototypes.
- be ambitious and open to explore and take design risks in order to stretch the development of design proposals, avoiding clichéd or stereotypical responses.
- consider the costs, commercial viability and marketing of products,
- demonstrate safe working practices in design and technology,
- use key design and technology terminology including those related to: designing, innovation and communication; materials and technologies; making, manufacture and production; critiquing, values and ethics.
DfE
Vacuum Forming
3D Printing
Tech Accessories
Classroom Tech
Coding
Site Safety
Assistive Technology