Design and Technology- Designing and ModellingWJEC-CBAC Other Life Skills Qualification Foundations for Learning Revision

    This element introduces learners to the initial stages of the design process, focusing on researching existing products to inform creative ideas, structuri

    Topic Synopsis

    This element introduces learners to the initial stages of the design process, focusing on researching existing products to inform creative ideas, structuring a design brief with clear specifications, and effectively communicating design concepts. Practical applications include developing foundational skills for product design, model making, and visual communication in creative media and performance arts contexts.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Design and Technology- Designing and Modelling

    WJEC-CBAC
    vocational

    This element introduces learners to the initial stages of the design process, focusing on researching existing products to inform creative ideas, structuring a design brief with clear specifications, and effectively communicating design concepts. Practical applications include developing foundational skills for product design, model making, and visual communication in creative media and performance arts contexts.

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    Learning Outcomes
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    Assessment Guidance
    3
    Key Skills
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    Key Terms
    3
    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    WJEC Entry Level Diploma In Creative Media and Performance Arts (Entry 2)

    Topic Overview

    The WJEC Entry Level Diploma in Creative Media and Performance Arts (Entry 2) is a foundational qualification designed to introduce students to the core principles of creative media and performance arts. It covers a range of practical and theoretical skills, including basic media production, performance techniques, and creative expression. This diploma is ideal for students who are beginning their journey in the creative industries, providing a supportive framework to develop confidence, teamwork, and communication skills.

    This qualification is part of the Foundations for Learning suite, which focuses on building essential skills for further study or employment. Students will explore different media forms such as photography, video, and audio, as well as performance disciplines like drama, dance, and music. The course emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to create their own media products and performances while reflecting on their work and the work of others.

    Understanding this diploma is crucial because it lays the groundwork for more advanced studies in creative media and performance arts. It helps students develop a portfolio of work that demonstrates their abilities, which is valuable for progression to Entry 3 or Level 1 qualifications. Additionally, the skills gained—such as creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration—are highly transferable to a wide range of careers and further education pathways.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • Media production basics: understanding how to plan, create, and edit simple media products like short videos, audio recordings, or photo essays.
    • Performance skills: developing confidence in performing for an audience, including voice projection, movement, and character portrayal.
    • Creative expression: using different media and performance techniques to convey ideas, emotions, or stories effectively.
    • Evaluation and reflection: reviewing your own work and the work of others to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Know how to research features of a product suitable for design work., Be able to create a design brief and specification., Be able to present design ideas.

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Award credit for demonstrating an ability to identify key features of a chosen product through basic research methods such as observation, interviews, or internet searches.
    • Award credit for producing a simple design brief that includes a purpose, target audience, and basic design specifications (e.g., size, materials, function).
    • Award credit for presenting design ideas using drawings, annotations, or simple models that clearly communicate the concept.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡Always refer back to the research findings when creating the design brief to ensure the product features meet user needs.
    • 💡Use simple, clear language and labelled diagrams when presenting design ideas to demonstrate understanding even if drawing skills are limited.
    • 💡When researching, take structured notes or create a mood board to evidence the process for the assessor.
    • 💡Always refer to the assessment criteria when planning your work. Each criterion specifies what you need to demonstrate, so use them as a checklist to ensure you cover all requirements.
    • 💡In performance assessments, focus on your character's intentions and how you convey them through voice, movement, and interaction with others. Examiners look for clear choices and consistency.
    • 💡For media production, pay attention to technical quality—good lighting, clear audio, and steady shots make a big difference. Even simple edits can enhance your final product.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Confusing the design brief with the final product, failing to understand it as a planning document.
    • Providing overly complex specifications that do not meet the entry-level requirements or are unrealistic.
    • Neglecting to annotate design ideas, leaving assessors unclear about the decision-making process.
    • Misconception: 'You don't need to plan; you can just start creating.' Correction: Planning is essential in creative media and performance. Even simple projects benefit from storyboarding, scripting, or rehearsal to ensure a clear outcome.
    • Misconception: 'Performance is just about being loud or dramatic.' Correction: Effective performance involves subtlety, timing, and understanding your audience. It's about communicating a message, not just being expressive.
    • Misconception: 'Evaluation is just saying you liked something.' Correction: Evaluation requires specific observations about what worked well and what could be improved, using examples from the work.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • Basic literacy and numeracy skills at Entry 1 level or equivalent, as the course involves reading instructions, writing simple reflections, and measuring time or quantities in media production.
    • Some prior experience with creative activities, such as school plays, art projects, or using basic media equipment, can be helpful but is not required.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • Know how to research features of a product suitable for design work., Be able to create a design brief and specification., Be able to present design ideas.

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