GCSE Design and Technology (Product Design)
There are two pathways for Design Technology: Product Design and Textiles.
The new course is made up of two components; a single exam paper and a single non-examined assessment (NEA) task that are both equally weighted (50% each). The NEA tasks take the form of ‘contexts’ and are set each year by the exam board and these were shared with the students in July. All students have picked a context for their NEA and are now working on producing a portfolio of between 20-30 pages, where they will design and manufacture a prototype product.
Please note that the deadline for mark submission for the NEA is 28th March 2024 so that all moderation can be completed before marks are submitted to the exam board. After this time your child cannot positively impact their grade in these areas.
It is important that your child is taking personal responsibility for their learning to ensure the NEA is completed and they are prepared for the exam. They must be attending extracurricular clubs when asked to ensure they get the best score possible.
Revision guides, knowledge organisers and an electronic workbook have been made available to all students and it is vital they utilise these.
Prior to the exam, the year 11 students will have 2 main assessments, one in November, and one in late February. In addition, there are shorter topic tests their teacher may set – these scores will be added to current progress with the NEA coursework that will generate predicted grades.
PPE – November 2023 – will be a full past GCSE paper only covering all content (core knowledge and timbers).
PPE – February 2024 – will be a different full past GCSE paper only covering all content.
There are a number of useful DT websites:
For revision or information about the NEA BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zb6h92p
Specification specific information and exam materials.
A free homework resource that all students should be signed up to Seneca Learning.
