Product design will appeal to students who have an interest in developing creative and practical skills in product manufacture. The ideal student would have a creative and innovative mind with the ability to think ‘outside the box’ but also the ability to think logically when it comes to problem solving. On the one hand you will be taught to approach design tasks in a professional and commercial manner and on the other, you will examine the wider world and its increasing influence on the field of design through ergonomic, economic, aesthetic and cultural issues.

AS Units

There are 4 units in total you will study 2 units each year:

Unit 1 (AS)

Design and Technology in practice (written paper 40% of AS)

In this unit you will examine some of the many factors of product design. Through focused tasks you will learn about industrial and commercial practices, building an understanding of all factors needed in the development of any new product.

Unit 2 (AS)

Portfolio of creative skills (coursework 60% of AS)

You will learn the skills that are required in product design by analysing existing products in 4 main areas:

- Performance

- Materials and components

- Manufacture

- Quality

You will then develop practical skills and techniques through the development of new products.

A2 Units

Unit 3 (A2)

Design and Technology in practice (written paper 40% of A2)

In this unit you will begin to refine your existing knowledge base and start to consider how modern design practice is shaped by the constantly changing world around us. You will gain a fair greater insight through topics such as:

-The use of ICT in the modern design practice

-Examining systems and control (including a factory visit for hands on experience)

-Looking at where design has come from through an examination of some key figures in design history

-Learning about the increasing importance of sustainable design

Unit 4 (A2)

Commercial design (60% 0f A2)

Unit 4 represents your opportunity to design and develop a product of your choice by implementing knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course.

You will have the opportunity to be creative, adventurous and innovative in producing a final product or prototype to commercial standards.

The work created here should form the crowning glory of your 2 years and be able to be used to further your design portfolio which could be used in future university and job applications

Assessment details

Unit 1

40% of AS

Externally assessed in exam conditions

Unit 2

60% of AS

Internally assessed coursework external moderation

Assessment details

Unit 3	40% of A2	Externally assessed in exam conditions
Unit 4	60% of A2	Internally assessed coursework, external moderation

Progression

The A Level in Product Design qualifies for UCAS points so if you complete it successfully you could move on to study a degree or BTEC Higher National Diploma in related subjects such as engineering, graphic design, marketing, furniture design, interior design, architecture and construction.

Exam board

AQA