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This lesson brings together everything you have learned in the New and Emerging Technologies section of AQA GCSE Design and Technology (8552), Section 3.1.1. It provides exam-style questions, model answers and strategies to help you achieve the best possible marks on Paper 1.
AQA GCSE D&T Paper 1 is a 2-hour written exam worth 100 marks (50% of the GCSE). Section A covers Core Technical Principles (including New and Emerging Technologies). Questions range from 1-mark recall to 6-mark extended response.
| Question Type | Marks | What the Examiner Expects |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple choice | 1 | Select the correct answer from four options |
| Short answer | 1–2 | A brief, accurate factual response |
| Describe | 2–4 | Say what something is and how it works, with specific detail |
| Explain | 3–4 | Give reasons, using connective words like "because", "this means that", "resulting in" |
| Evaluate / Discuss | 6 | A balanced argument with advantages and disadvantages, examples, and a conclusion |
AQA Exam Tip: For 6-mark questions, spend 1 minute planning before you write. Jot down 3 pros and 3 cons (or 3 points for and 3 against), then write a short paragraph for each. Finish with a brief conclusion that weighs up the evidence.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Automation | Using machines and technology to carry out processes with minimal human intervention |
| CNC | Computer Numerical Control — machines that follow programmed instructions to cut, shape or form materials |
| CAD | Computer-Aided Design — using software to create and modify designs digitally |
| CAM | Computer-Aided Manufacture — using computer-controlled machines to make products |
| Crowdfunding | Raising money from many small contributions via online platforms |
| Technology push | New technology drives the development of new products |
| Market pull | Consumer demand drives the development of new products |
| Lean manufacturing | A production philosophy focused on minimising waste |
| JIT | Just-in-Time — materials are delivered exactly when needed, eliminating stockholding |
| FMS | Flexible Manufacturing System — a production setup that can quickly switch between different products |
| Ergonomics | The study of how people interact with products and environments |
| Anthropometrics | The study of human body measurements used to inform design decisions |
| Inclusive design | Designing products that can be used by as many people as possible |
| Sustainability | Meeting present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs |
| LCA | Life Cycle Assessment — analysing environmental impact from raw materials to disposal |
| Planned obsolescence | Deliberately designing a product to become outdated or non-functional after a set period |
| The 6 Rs | Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse, Rethink, Repair |
Q: State two advantages of using CNC machines compared to manual production methods.
Model Answer:
Each point earns 1 mark. The student has given two distinct advantages with brief explanations. A weaker answer would just say "faster" and "more accurate" without explanation.
Q: Explain how crowdfunding benefits a new designer who wants to launch an innovative product.
Model Answer: Crowdfunding allows the designer to test market demand before investing in mass production — if the funding target is not reached, they know the product may not be viable, saving them from financial loss. (1) The campaign also acts as free marketing, as potential backers share the project on social media, raising awareness. (1) The designer does not need to take out a bank loan or give up equity to investors, meaning they retain full control of their business. (1) Finally, backers often provide feedback during the campaign, helping the designer improve the product before it goes into production. (1)
Q: Evaluate the impact of automation on employment in the manufacturing industry.
Model Answer:
Automation has had a significant impact on manufacturing employment, with both positive and negative consequences.
On the negative side, automation has led to the loss of many low-skilled, repetitive jobs. For example, robots now perform welding and painting on car assembly lines, replacing thousands of factory workers. This has contributed to unemployment in traditional manufacturing areas and can widen social inequality, as displaced workers may struggle to find new employment.
In addition, workers who remain in automated factories face the challenge of deskilling — their traditional manual skills are no longer required, and they may feel less valued in their roles.
However, automation has also created new jobs that require higher-level skills. Roles such as robotics engineer, CNC programmer and maintenance technician have emerged. These jobs tend to be better paid and offer more career progression than the roles they replaced.
Furthermore, automation enables companies to produce goods more cheaply and consistently, making products more affordable for consumers. Companies that automate can remain competitive in global markets, potentially securing more jobs overall by keeping the business viable.
In conclusion, while automation causes significant short-term disruption through job losses, it also creates new opportunities for those who retrain. The overall impact depends on whether adequate training and support are provided to help displaced workers transition into new roles.
This answer would likely achieve 5–6 marks because it:
Q: Describe what is meant by the term "Just-in-Time" (JIT) production.
Model Answer: JIT is a manufacturing strategy where materials and components are delivered to the factory exactly when they are needed for production, rather than being stored in a warehouse. (1) This reduces storage costs and the amount of money tied up in stock. (1) However, it requires reliable suppliers because if a delivery is late, the whole production line may stop. (1)
Q: A company designs a new running shoe using a sole made from graphene-infused rubber, a material recently developed in a university laboratory. Explain whether this is an example of technology push or market pull.
Model Answer: This is an example of technology push because the graphene-infused rubber was developed in a research laboratory before any consumer specifically asked for it. (1) Scientists created the new material, and designers then found an application for it in running shoes. (1) The innovation started with the technology, not with consumer demand. (1) However, there may also be an element of market pull, as runners are always looking for shoes with better grip and durability — so consumer demand for improved performance may have encouraged designers to adopt the new material. (1)
AQA Exam Tip: Identifying that a product has elements of both technology push and market pull demonstrates higher-level thinking and is likely to be rewarded in the top mark band.
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