AQA GCSE Design and Technology covering materials, mechanical devices, energy systems, design principles, and manufacturing processes.
Covers investigation methods, human factors (ergonomics and anthropometrics), environmental and social challenges, influential designers and companies, design strategies, communication techniques, modelling, prototyping and exam practice. AQA 8552 Section 3.3.
Covers environmental impact of material extraction, carbon footprint, the six Rs, life cycle assessment, planned obsolescence, sources and origins of materials, fair trade, ethical sourcing, and worker welfare for AQA GCSE Design and Technology (8552) Sections 3.2.3 and 3.2.4.
Master energy sources, modern and smart materials, composites, technical textiles and electronic systems for the AQA GCSE Design and Technology specification (8552).
Comprehensive exam preparation for AQA GCSE Design and Technology (8552). Covers Paper 1 and Paper 2 strategies, command words, mathematical and scientific content, material identification, design communication, NEA portfolio guidance, common mistakes and final revision checklists.
Covers material selection criteria, social/ethical/cultural factors, forces acting on materials, elastic and plastic deformation, reinforcing and stiffening techniques, stress, strain, Young's modulus, and testing methods for AQA GCSE Design and Technology (8552) Sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.
Master papers, boards, timbers, metals, polymers, textiles and material properties for the AQA GCSE Design and Technology specification (8552).
Master mechanical systems including levers, linkages, gears, cams, pulleys and calculations for the AQA GCSE Design and Technology specification (8552).
Master new and emerging technologies, enterprise, sustainability, CAD/CAM and manufacturing systems for the AQA GCSE Design and Technology specification (8552).
Covers production aids, quality control, specialist tools for all material areas, commercial processes (die cutting, screen printing, sublimation, CNC routing) and surface treatments for timbers, metals, polymers and textiles. AQA 8552 Sections 3.2.8 and 3.2.9.
Covers physical and mechanical properties, cutting, shaping, forming, joining techniques, wastage vs redistribution methods, stock forms and standard sizes, calculating material requirements, and scales of production for AQA GCSE Design and Technology (8552) Sections 3.2.5, 3.2.6, and 3.2.7.