KS3 Design and Technology (DT)

Design and Technology (DT)

In DT you will learn how to manipulate woods, metals and plastics using a variety of specialist equipment, hand tools, machinery and Computer Aided Design. The subject is about using these materials to design products for the real world. It’s also about taking and idea from the moment of inception (your first idea) and developing it through planning and prototyping to an actual final product that can be used and evaluated

How will I be assessed?

Students will create a range of objects and products and most assessment is based on the students’ practical individual outcome. There will be smaller assessed pieces which include research, design and development, final drawing skills, planning for the manufacture and evaluation which are completed as homework. Additionally, each student will have a Personal Learning Checklist (PLC), so that they can monitor their progress alongside the teacher.

Anything else I need to know?

The pastoral and social learning aspects of DT will build your confidence, develop your collaborative skills through team challenges and stimulates creative approaches to problem solving. It also encourages independence and can improve organisational skills too.

How does this subject prepare students for GCSE option choice in year 9?

During years 7 and 8 you will learn how to use and operate machines safely with accuracy and precision such as; pillar drills, disc sanders and strip heaters – which can fold plastic! Being able to use workshop tools and equipment is also another vital element in DT where we employ the use of Coping saws, files and hammers to name but a few.

What extra-curricular opportunities are available for this subject and what can I do at home to challenge myself?

At school we offer a weekly STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) club. Your presentation standards and attention to detail needed in DT could be practised and applied to many other subject disciplines and in your home environment on a daily basis. There are many computer programmes such as Photoshop, Google Sketch-up and other design apps that our students enjoy doing at home at their leisure. Architecture is particularly popular.

Who should I contact for extra information?

Course contact:
Mr P Ray: paul.ray@biddenham.beds.sch.uk