KEY STAGE 2

Students are introduced to some of the fundamental processes involved in designing and making. They are shown a number of basic drawing techniques to help them communicate their ideas. They develop their measuring skills in a practical context. The students use scissors and sand paper to shape soft materials such as paper, card and balsa wood and they investigate different ways in which materials can be joined.

KEY STAGE 3

Students develop their designing and making skills. They are introduced to perspective drawing and become familiar with basic draftsmanship. The work involves problem solving and the students are asked to make decisions regarding form and function. Students learn to use basic hand and machine tools and are informed about safe workshop practice. They develop their knowledge and experience of materials and their appropriate use in manufacturing.

KEY STAGE 4

Students commence their IGCSE examination course building on their experiences in Key Stage 2 and 3. They follow the Graphical Communications syllabus and are set a number of mini-projects to inform them of the standard and content required at this level. Students are able to select a topic of their choice and develop their project over a period of several months. They complete a design folio and manufacture a basic product. This accounts for 50% of the marks. The remaining marks are awarded by means of a written/drawing test based upon the theoretical content taught over the two year period.