Resistant Materials – Year 10 and 11

GCSE Design and Technology – Resistant Materials – AQA – specification code 8552

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The specification sets out the knowledge, understanding and skills required to design and manufacture a resistant materials product. Students will develop a variety of practical skills through mini projects to prepare them for their final product in Year 11. A large amount of theory is covered in practical lessons as well as through ICT. This will include materials research, as well as CAD/CAM packages including: Google sketch-up, Fusion and 2D Design.

Year 10

Practical lessons – Students develop a range of practical skills alongside core Computer Aided Design (CAD) skills. Projects may include dovetail boxes, picture frames and tables. Students will also have the opportunity to use the school’s laser cutter and 3D printer.
Theory lessons – Using ICT students will acquire knowledge on the specification topics, this is to equip students with the knowledge required for their written examination. Theory topics are focused around materials, processes and manufacturing.
Homework – This is set on a regular basis and will be used to support theory lessons.

Year 11

The focus of Year 11 is to complete a written design portfolio.
The students will follow the design process to research, design, manufacture and evaluate a product to a brief of their choice.
The design portfolio is worth 50% of a student’s final grade and encourages creativity and high level manufacturing.
Revision programme for the end of Year 11 – revisiting topics learnt in Year 10.

Recommended text books:

D&T GCSE – ISBN 978-1-910523-24-7