Key Stage 4

All pupils follow the CCEA Technology & Design specification.

Common Core:
Studied by Higher and Lower tier candidates:

• Designing

• Communicating

• Manufacturing

• Using Energy and Control

Specialist Options:
We currently study Computer and Microprocessor Control as our specialist option.

Coursework:
Two activities: 

(1) Focused Tasks (10%)

• Product Evaluation

• CAD Drawing                    

(2) Design Project (50%) 

• 15 A3 sheets of design work leading to the manufacture of a product of the candidates own choice

Examinations:
A 2.5 hour terminal paper worth 40% of the total marks

From September 2009, GCSE pupils will study the revised CCEA Technology & Design specification.

Unit 1: Technology & Design Core

• Manufacturing

• Electronics

• Mechanical Control Systems

• Computer Control Systems

• Pneumatic Systems and Control

This unit is assessed by a 1 hour examination and counts towards 20% of the final GCSE mark.

Unit 2:  Systems and Control – Electronic & Microelectronic Control Systems
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour examination and counts towards 20% of the final GCSE mark.

Unit 4:  Design Assignment
Students have 13 hours to complete the design assignment on a topic set by the exam board.  The design work is presented on a maximum of four A3 sheets.  This controlled assessment has a weighting of 20% of the final GCSE mark.

Unit 5:  Design Project
Students have 30 hours to complete this design and make project.  It should incorporate an electronic or microelectronic system and the design work should be presented on a maximum of 10 A3 design sheets.  This controlled assessment has a weighting of 40% of the final GCSE mark.