Design and TechnologyQ&A by dot point

Classification of papers and boards, timbers, metals, polymers and textiles into families, and the criteria used to select a material for a given product and context.

The main categories of manufacturing process - wasting, shaping by casting and moulding, deforming and reforming, fabrication and joining - and how the chosen process depends on material, form and scale.

The sources, origins and primary processing of materials (timber seasoning and conversion, metal extraction, polymerisation of crude oil, fibre sources) and the standard stock forms in which they are bought.

The reasons for applying surface treatments and finishes (protection, durability, aesthetics, hygiene) and named finishes for timber, metal and polymer such as varnish, paint, galvanising, anodising, powder coating and self-finishing.

The 6 Rs (rethink, refuse, reduce, reuse, repair, recycle) and the ecological and social footprint of products, including finite and non-finite resources and responsible material sourcing.

Physical and mechanical working properties of materials - strength, hardness, toughness, ductility, malleability, elasticity, plasticity, density, durability, electrical and thermal conductivity - and how they govern selection and processing.

Apply the designing and making principles in the AS design and make task: respond to a context, investigate, design, develop, plan, manufacture and evaluate a working prototype with a portfolio of evidence.

Composite materials (GRP, CFRP, concrete, plywood) that combine a matrix and reinforcement, and technical and performance textiles (Gore-Tex, Kevlar, microfibres, conductive textiles) engineered for specific functions.

Scales of production (one-off, batch, mass and continuous), design for manufacture and assembly, tolerances, quality control and the use of jigs, templates and standard components.

The influence of past and present designers, design companies and design movements (Bauhaus, Art Deco, Memphis, Modernism) on the styling, function and values of products.

Design strategies (user-centred, iterative and collaborative design) and methods of communicating design ideas - freehand and formal drawing, modelling, CAD and CAM - and their roles in development.

Electronic systems as input-process-output sub-systems, common sensors and components, and programmable components (microcontrollers) that make products smarter, more functional and reprogrammable.

Life cycle assessment (raw materials, manufacture, distribution, use and disposal) and design strategies that lower impact across the life cycle, including design for disassembly, repair and recycling.

Types of motion (linear, rotary, reciprocating, oscillating) and mechanical devices - levers, linkages, gears, pulleys, cams and followers, cranks - that change motion and provide mechanical advantage.

Smart materials that respond to a change in their environment (shape memory alloys, thermochromic and photochromic pigments, quantum tunnelling composite, electroluminescent and piezoelectric materials) and modern materials developed through new processes.

Types of force (tension, compression, shear, bending, torsion) and stress in structures, and techniques for reinforcing and strengthening structures (triangulation, webbing, beams, folding and laminating).

The wider impact of design - social, moral and ethical issues, inclusive design, standards and legislation, the consequences of consumerism, and the role of enterprise and the designer's responsibilities.

Apply the designing and making principles in the substantial A2 design and make project: identify a context and client, investigate, specify, develop iteratively, plan, manufacture and evaluate a high-quality prototype, distinct from the AS task.