Product Design A Level

Overview

Product Design provides an opportunity to be creative and develop manufacturing skills in tandem.  Both practical and theory elements are assessed through controlled assessment and exams.

Qualification Type

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent

Qualification level

Level 3

Details

This course is 50% controlled assessment and 50% exam.

There are 2 theory units:

1. Technical Principles

In this unit you will gain knowledge about materials and their applications, processes, finishes and scales of production.  In addition, you will develop your Health & Safety knowledge alongside legal markings for protecting designs and intellectual property.

2. Designing and Making Principles

In this unit you will gain an appreciation of design methodology, the impact of technology and cultural changes, understanding responsible design requirements for the modern world.

Non-Exam assessment

You will complete a design and make task chosen from a list of topics presented by the exam board.  It needs to be challenging in design and have enough complexity in manufacture to meet the grading criteria.  Your teacher will provide guidance throughout this assessment.  You will be asked to produce a portfolio of work and a practical product along with photographic evidence of manufacture.

How will it be delivered?

Product Design – two written papers focussed on the theory units.

You will also have your non-exam assessment.

Entry requirements

Applicants this course will need to meet a minimum entry requirement of 5 GCSE passes at 9-4 (or equivalent) including English, Maths.

Course Specification

The course specification can be found at:

AQA | Design and Technology | A-level | Design and Technology: Product Design