Resources by Design & Technology

The importance of context in developing design and technological capability

This paper from the May 2016 Using STEM Research Conference investigates the ways in which real world contexts can be used in D&T lessons, from local projects such as community gardening to global concerns such as climate change.

Author: Kay Stables

The properties of polymers, using additives

A resource which covers core theory for GCSE Design and Technology: understanding the different additives which are applied to polymers and how they improve them....

The properties of timbers

In this lesson students will gain an understanding of timber seasoning (both naturally and artificially) to help reduce the moisture content. They will develop an understanding of the process of converting a log into lumber and timber conversion through video clips and diagrams. Exam style questions are included to...

Thermosetting polymers: properties and uses

A resource which covers core theory for GCSE Design and Technology: understanding the different classifications of plastics and polymers. Within this lesson students will develop a familiarity of a range of thermosetting polymers, common...

Types of papers and boards

Within this lesson students will gain knowledge and understanding of how paper is made and the primary sources of materials for producing papers and boards. Students will complete a series of questions which will help them to gain an understanding of how different papers and boards are produced, with a comparison...

Understanding the properties of manufactured boards

In this lesson students will gain an understanding of  the properties of manufactured boards. They will learn the names of different manufactured boards and their applications. The pros and cons of manufactured will also be learnt with the environmental impact covered through case studies, videos and a classroom...

Using graphs in design and technology

These resources challenge students to become more familiar with graphical data in a design and technology context:

• Venn diagrams: students are asked to complete the Venn diagram as a product analysis exercise for headphone wraps.
• Pie chart: students are asked...

Using maths to support designing

These activities support students to use maths skills when designing new products. The first activity uses a tangram to help students create new product shapes, the second uses the SCAMPER strategy to help students alter the shape of their design idea using reflection, tessalation, scale and proportion.

This...

What is a life cycle assessment?

In this lesson students will gain an understanding of what a life cycle assessment is and how it can be used to assess the environmental impact of the manufacture and use of different materials and products. Students will understand the five main stages of a life cycle analysis through both a diagram and supporting...

What is inclusive design?

This lesson resource looks at the topic of inclusive design and how design can be used to solve problems and support all people in society to engage successfully in the world around them. This resource sets the scene for inclusive design, helping students to understand how products must fulfill a need for a range...