Number of Sessions: 3 x 1 hour every fortnight
Homework: Once every two hours
Design and Technology in Year 7 and Year 8 is about developing a practical capability and creativity.
It consists of four key areas:
Graphics
Food Preparation and Nutrition
Textiles
Resistant Materials
Each area follows its own theory base, but also develops the following shared skills:
Organisation
Communication
Decision making
Problem solving
Manual dexterity
Creativity
In Year 7 and Year 8, Design and Technology is delivered through discrete lessons. In all years the subject is delivered through a carousel system with pupils experiencing all four of the different areas. Modules across all years are constantly being amended to reflect the changing nature of Design & Technology.
Equipment plays an important part in Design and Technology. Aprons are available for use in all subjects, however if pupils would prefer their own these can be purchased through school. It is anticipated the apron will last for the duration of Year 7 and Year 8. Stationery equipment can also be purchased through the department.
In all years pupils work in booklets which are kept in school, they will be given the opportunity to take these home periodically to allow them to share their learning experiences. Students are asked to provide their own ingredients for Food Preparation and Nutrition. Contributions to finished products in the other areas are purely voluntary.
Design and Technology activities in lower school reflect the requirements of the respective GCSE examinations and Non Examined Assessments, consequently great emphasis is placed on the content and presentation of written work, and the manufactured end product. Pupils in Year 7 and Year 8 are assessed in line with the school policy, with written feedback provided which includes suggestions related to what the pupils can do to improve their work. It is expected that the pupils will be given the opportunity to improve their work in response to any feedback received from the teacher. There are also opportunities for pupils to assess their own work, and the work of their peers to further develop their understanding of the work they are undertaking.
Students are always expected to behave to the high standards set by St. Joseph’s. Behaviour is very important at all times, but especially in practical areas due to Health and Safety considerations.
