Design and Technology- Making a Product
This element develops learners' ability to select appropriate materials for a creative product, realise their design through basic manufacturing techniques, and critically reflect on the finished outcome. It encompasses hands-on making skills, decision-making based on material properties, and the evaluation process essential for iterative design. Learners will demonstrate independence in following a simple plan and using tools safely under supervision, building foundational competencies for further study in creative media and performance arts.
Assessment criteria
Topic Overview
The WJEC Entry Level Diploma in Preparing for Work (Entry 2) is a vocationally-related qualification designed to help students develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to enter the workplace. This diploma covers key areas such as understanding different types of work, developing personal skills for employment, and learning about health and safety in the workplace. It is ideal for students who are beginning their journey towards employment and need a structured, supportive introduction to the world of work.
This qualification is part of the Foundations for Learning suite, which focuses on building practical, transferable skills. By studying this diploma, students will gain confidence in areas like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, all of which are highly valued by employers. The course also encourages students to reflect on their own strengths and areas for development, helping them to create a personal action plan for their future career.
The diploma is assessed through a combination of portfolio work and practical tasks, meaning students can demonstrate their learning in a hands-on way. This makes it particularly suitable for those who prefer a more applied approach to learning. Overall, the Preparing for Work diploma provides a solid foundation for further study or direct entry into employment, equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in the modern workplace.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Types of employment: Understanding the difference between full-time, part-time, temporary, and voluntary work, and how each fits into the job market.
- →Personal skills for work: Identifying and developing key employability skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.
- →Health and safety: Knowing basic health and safety procedures in the workplace, including fire safety, manual handling, and reporting hazards.
- →Workplace expectations: Understanding the importance of punctuality, dress code, and professional behaviour in a work environment.
- →Career planning: Learning how to set personal goals, create an action plan, and explore different career options.
Learning Objectives
What you need to know and understand
- Be able to choose suitable materials for the chosen product, Be able to manufacture their chosen design, Review a manufactured product.
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Award credit for clearly justifying material choices with reference to at least two relevant properties (e.g., flexibility, texture, strength) and how they suit the product's purpose.
- Credit evidence of following a manufacturing sequence safely, using appropriate tools and techniques (e.g., cutting, joining, finishing) with minimal assistance.
- Learners must produce a final product that is consistent with their original design intent, demonstrating accuracy and care in construction.
- In the review, look for identification of at least one strength and one area for improvement, expressed in simple terms with supporting reasons.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡When documenting material choices, create a simple table comparing options and their properties to demonstrate thorough decision-making.
- 💡Break the manufacturing process into clear steps with photos or notes to show a logical sequence and attention to health and safety.
- 💡For the review, use a structured format like 'What went well' and 'Even better if' to ensure balanced and constructive self-assessment.
- 💡Practice using basic hand tools (scissors, glue, ruler) beforehand to build confidence and precision during the final assessment piece.
- 💡When completing your portfolio, make sure to include specific examples of times you have demonstrated key skills, such as teamwork or problem-solving. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples clearly.
- 💡Pay close attention to the wording of assessment criteria. For example, if a task asks you to 'describe' something, you need to give details and explain, not just list facts. Use full sentences and show your understanding.
- 💡In practical assessments, remember to follow health and safety instructions carefully. Assessors will be looking for safe working practices, so always wear appropriate clothing and equipment, and ask if you are unsure about any procedure.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Choosing materials based solely on appearance without considering functional requirements, leading to a product that may not perform as intended.
- Rushing the making process and skipping key steps like measuring or marking, resulting in inaccurate cuts or misaligned parts.
- Failing to test materials or prototypes before final construction, causing errors that are difficult to correct later.
- Providing vague feedback in the review (e.g., 'it's good') without explaining why or linking to specific aspects of the product.
- Misconception: 'You don't need to worry about health and safety unless you work in a dangerous job.' Correction: Health and safety is important in every workplace, from offices to retail to construction. All employees have a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe.
- Misconception: 'Teamwork means you always have to agree with everyone.' Correction: Effective teamwork involves listening to different opinions, compromising, and working towards a common goal. Disagreements can be healthy if handled respectfully.
- Misconception: 'Employers only care about qualifications, not personal skills.' Correction: Employers value personal skills like reliability, communication, and a positive attitude just as much as qualifications. These skills often make the difference in getting and keeping a job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Pass / Merit / Distinction Evidence Checklist
How your portfolio evidence is graded for WJEC-CBAC Design and Technology- Making a Product
Every vocational unit is marked against named criteria rather than an exam percentage. Your tutor's brief lists the exact codes for this unit — here is what each band is asking you to do.
Demonstrate baseline knowledge, accurate terminology, and core practical application.
Provide detailed analysis, structured explanations, and clear workplace reasoning.
Deliver thorough evaluation, original problem solving, and fully justified recommendations.
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •Basic literacy and numeracy skills at Entry 1 level or equivalent.
- •An interest in exploring different types of work and developing personal skills.
- •No formal qualifications are required, but students should be ready to engage in group activities and complete simple written tasks.
Coursework AI Review
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Key Terminology
Essential terms to know
- Be able to choose suitable materials for the chosen product, Be able to manufacture their chosen design, Review a manufactured product.
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