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Schemes of Work
QCA

Design and technology at key stage 3    (Year 7)

Unit 07aii: Understanding materials Focus: resistant materials

QCA
About this unit

The main aim of this unit is to develop pupils' understanding of the properties of materials and how to apply this understanding when designing with resistant materials.

In this unit, pupils tackle a design and make assignment (DMA) on the theme 'Carry it all', in which they design and make a carrying device for someone in the local community. They must use materials appropriately to meet a specific technical purpose.

Pupils gain the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to carry out the DMA successfully through product evaluation activities and focused practical tasks. They:

  • classify materials by their properties and sources, eg hard/soft, ferrous/non-ferrous metal, thermoplastic/thermosetting plastic
  • consider basic surface finishes, eg edge polishing acrylic, sealing wood, primer, undercoat and gloss paint on mild steel
  • consider physical properties, eg the grain of wood, brittleness of acrylic, elasticity of PVC, malleability of aluminium
  • become aware how the extraction, use and eventual disposal of some materials affect the natural environment

Sections in this unit

This unit is divided into sections. Each section contains a sequence of activities with related objectives and outcomes. You can view this unit by moving through the sections or print/download the whole unit.
1. Design and make assignment (DMA)
2. Product evaluation
3. Product evaluation - 2
4. Product evaluation - 3
5. Product evaluation - 4
6. Product evaluation - 5
7. Focused practical tasks (FPTs)
8. Focused practical tasks (FPTs) - 2
9. Focused practical tasks (FPTs) - 3
10. Focused practical tasks (FPTs) - 4
11. Focused practical tasks (FPTs) - 5