Course Summaries
Assessment: Three components are linked to assessment: 1. Principles of Product Design (26.7% of total A level) This paper is set out through four sets of questions that predominantly cover technical principles within Product Design & Manufacture. Pupils will be required to: • analyse existing products and design practice; articulating why products are viable for the intended context of use • demonstrate applied mathematical skills to a range of design contexts • demonstrate their technical knowledge of materials, product functionality, manufacturing processes and techniques • demonstrate their understanding of wider social, moral and environmental issues that impact on the design and manufacturing industries. 2. Problem Solving in Product Design (23.3% of total A level) This component has a series of longer answer questions that require pupils to demonstrate their problem solving and critical evaluation skills. Pupils will be required to: • apply their knowledge, understanding and skills of designing and manufacturing prototypes and products • apply mathematical understanding to evaluate the viability of commercial designs • demonstrate their higher thinking skills to solve problems and evaluate situations and suitability of design solutions. 3. Iterative Design Project (50% of total A level) The ‘Iterative Design Project’ requires pupils to undertake a substantial design, make and evaluate project centred on the iterative processes of explore, create and evaluate. Pupils identify a design opportunity or problem from a context of their own choice, and create a portfolio of evidence in real time through the project to demonstrate their competence. Pupils are required to design with the intention of launching a product as a commercially considered concept but can produce a range of alternative prototypes to demonstrate aesthetics, functionality & human interaction which are examined holistically.
Drama & Theatre Studies: Edexcel 9DR0 The course provides an opportunity to study plays from the points of view of a director, designer, performer and critic. Pupils acquire a knowledge and understanding of the language of drama and theatre and develop performance and analytical skills. Each part of the creative process is studied with practical opportunities to develop skills in both production and performance roles. Individual creativity is nurtured along with the challenges of collaboration both practically and academically. This A level would suit anyone interested in the creative process of making theatre, its history and its role in a world crowded with alternative forms of entertainment.
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