Specification: AQA-GCSE-Design-and-Technology
The AQA GCSE Design and Technology specification covers 4 topics with 0 learning objectives (AQA-GCSE-Design-and-Technology). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.
4
Topics
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Objectives
18
Exam Tips
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Pitfalls
The AQA GCSE Design and Technology qualification equips students with the skills to design and make innovative products using a wide range of materials and processes. The course is structured around three key principles: core technical principles, specialist technical principles, and designing and making principles. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of how technology shapes the world around us.
Students will explore topics such as new and emerging technologies, energy generation and storage, developments in materials, systems and mechanical devices. The course places a strong emphasis on iterative design, encouraging students to continuously test, evaluate, and refine their ideas. Through practical application of knowledge, learners develop the ability to solve real-world problems creatively.
The specification is divided equally between a written examination and a non-exam assessment (NEA). The NEA is a substantial design and make project where students produce a working prototype and a detailed portfolio of evidence. AQA's approach is designed to foster independence, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the design process.
This qualification is assessed through two components: a written exam (2 hours, 100 marks, 50% of the GCSE) and a non-exam assessment (NEA) (approximately 30–35 hours, 100 marks, 50% of the GCSE). The written exam comprises three sections: Section A covers core technical principles (20 marks), Section B covers specialist technical principles (30 marks) through a chosen material area or systems, and Section C covers designing and making principles (50 marks). The NEA involves a substantial design and make task, where students respond to a contextual challenge, producing a prototype and a portfolio of evidence. Both components are designed to assess a wide range of design and technology skills.
Identify, investigate and outline design possibilities to address needs and wants
Design and make prototypes that are fit for purpose
Analyse and evaluate – • design decisions and outcomes, including for prototypes made by themselves and others • wider issues in design technology
Demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of – • technical principles • design and making principles
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
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