KS5 - Product Design

A Level (AQA)

In the first year of the course, you will develop an understanding of a broad range of materials, with a greater emphasis on understanding and applying iterative design processes. You will also consider the broader issues for the designer including the environmental sustainability of products and consumer safety.

In the second year, students have the opportunity to further develop the knowledge and practical skills from Y12. You will continue to develop a body of coursework alongside an understanding of the processes and procedures of commercial production and manufacture.

ASSESSMENT

Paper 1 – Technical principles. Written exam: 2.5 hours, 120 marks, 30% of A level

Paper 2 – Designing and making principles. Written exam: 1.5 hours, 80 marks, 20% of A level

Design and make project 100 marks, 50% of A level Evidence - Written or digital design portfolio and photographic evidence of final prototype.

FUTURE STUDY / CAREERS

Students who complete this course usually go on to higher education to study Product Design, 3D or furniture design or Engineering.

Increasingly, students are using their skills to study courses such as business management, architecture and teaching.

The problem solving nature of the course can provide skills which are important in many aspects of everyday life.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

If you have a range of good GCSE results and are strongly motivated, then you can be successful in this subject area. Typically, we would expect that you have completed a GCSE in a Design and Technology subject and achieved at least a C Grade. It would also be desirable for you to have achieved a Grade B or above in Maths and Science where skills and knowledge can be applied in the context of design and technology.

a level product design detailed course breakdown.pdf