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The main aim of this unit is for pupils to apply their understanding of the properties of materials when designing.
In this unit, pupils tackle a design and make assignment (DMA) on the theme 'Fold it up'. They identify a need for a folding structure, selecting the materials they will use according to their characteristics, and matching them to appropriate making processes. The optimum use of materials should reconcile a number of criteria, including the working characteristics, production processes, environmental and social issues, costs and aesthetics.
Pupils gain the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to carry out the DMA successfully through product evaluation activities and focused practical tasks. They:
- understand that the properties of materials,
eg strength, durability, influence what they select for a design
- select materials and match them to appropriate making processes
- learn how to use heat treatment and other processes to change the working properties of materials
- learn about the diversity of one product,
eg tool racks, and the influence of lifestyle
- consider minimising environmental damage, use materials sympathetically, and find out about the importance of reuse and recycling issues
- conduct fair test procedures using qualitative and quantitative measures
- learn about the uses of modern materials,
eg composites
- consider different structural designs to withstand greater loads
- redesign products to distribute the forces of tension, compression and shear more evenly throughout a product
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