Design and technology at key stage 3    (Year 8)

Set the pupils a DMA in which they identify and work with materials that are suitable for the task, applying their understanding of the properties of materials.

This example DMA below has been written so it can be copied and given directly to pupils. Further information about the context will be needed to make the DMA specific enough for your pupils.

Finding an identity - decorative techniques on textiles

Design and print or dye a piece of fabric to make into a scarf or tie that an environmental group could sell to its members.

• take into account appearance, function, safety and reliability
• make preliminary models to explore and test their design thinking
• make their product within constraints
• use their knowledge of how databases are organised, and how to read them to select relevant technical information about materials and processes
• consider a range of materials and methods
• choose materials and methods, and give details of these in a manufacturing specification
• write a report (300 words) justifying and reviewing their choice of materials and methods of making. The report should have a clear focus and include linked paragraphs and topic sentences