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Product Design A Level

SPECIFICATION LINK: 9DTO

TITLE: Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Design and Technology: Product Design (603/0697/X)

COURSE INFORMATION

You will study a broad course of a Design & Technology subject, which builds on the core of what you have been taught across GCSE and focuses on the designing and making of products including materials like timbers, metals and polymers, as well as papers and boards and even some electronics and fabrics. Students should ideally have followed a GCSE Design & Technology course, preferably in Product Design, Communication, Electronic Systems or Fashion and Textiles, however it is not mandatory and will need to be discussed with the Head of Department.

Product Design is all about designing and making products in an innovative and creative way. It’s about learning how things are made. You will be designing and making a solution to a problem set by the department through designing, modelling and practical sessions utilising the subject knowledge that runs alongside it.

Year 12 is used to build a foundation of new content through some high level A grade style projects which will stretch and challenge you to produce something amazing and get your teeth into! It will give you a strong basis of knowledge as well as making skills and folder work, which can then be applied to the Coursework element in Year 13 which we start at the end of Year 12 and counts for 50% of your final grade. You will have to produce a portfolio which demonstrates your ability to research, design, develop, make and evaluate your product of choice. Students studying Product Design will need to provide materials for coursework or contribute towards the cost of parts for practical work as you will keep whatever you make.

ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE                              

  • Controlled Assessment - 50% Students complete an extended Design and Make project
  • Written Paper - 50% (2hr 30min papers)

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Jaguar Land Rover and Morgan Car Factory visit
  • New Designers exhibition
  • Year 12 London 2-day trip
  • Year 13 New York trip

ROUTES FOR PROGRESSION

Studying Product Design shows an employer that pupils are able to use a wide range of academic and practical skills and can apply their knowledge to solve problems. Students have been successful in securing degree places at Loughborough, Brunel, Northumbria, Goldsmiths, Sheffield Hallam, Nottingham Trent on Product Design, Industrial Design, Product Design and Furniture Design courses. Students have also gone onto General Engineering, Mechanical Engineering courses and apprenticeships.