A Level Product Design
Exam Board: AQA
Why study this subject?
A Level Product Design is a challenging and very rewarding qualification that has designing and making at the heart of the course. This course encompasses a wide range of design disciplines but is firmly rooted in the skills required to design and make high quality products. It allows students to communicate through design. Product Design emphasises two key factors: creativity and sustainability. Students will develop their research, analysis, product development, project planning and evaluation skills.
The course will include: Technical drawing and sketching tuition, learning to design products that function well, a range of practical manufacturing tasks, developing Knowledge and understanding of materials and manufacturing processes that designers use and improving the ability to understand the impact designers can have on the world around them.
How is the course assessed?
There are two external written papers consisting of short-answer and extended writing style questions. 50% of the course is assessed through the external papers. Coursework is internally set and marked by the centre and externally moderated. The coursework involves the designing and development of an appropriate product supported by a design folder. This product should be complete, expertly made and well finished. The coursework contributes 50% to the A Level.
| EXAM 1: Technical Principles | 30% |
| EXAM 2: Designing and Making Principles | 20% |
| COURSEWORK: Substantial design and make task (45hours) | 50% |
Where can this subject lead?
This course is for those who are interested in a career in technology, engineering , Industrial
Design or marketing. It is an enjoyable and relevant course for the developing technical world we live in. Students studying this course often go on to a wide range of degree courses including:
Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Fashion, Automotive Design, Architecture, and Engineering (mechanical, automotive, aeronautical). An increasing number of students are pursuing Higher Level Apprenticeships.