Maps Level Descriptors


To reflect progress at Key Stage 3 Level -5, 5, +5 Design Technology.

Level -5
(He/She)

Designing
Does collect primary and secondary research. Needs to use a greater variety of primary sources of information.
Does investigate similar products. Must attempt to explain their characteristics.
Creates 3D models to test for scale and function. Needs to experiment with more computer, numerical models e.g. the use of spreadsheets to model weights, size and costs.
More of the ideas need to be communicated independently.
Can test their work in order to determine if it meets some specifications. Needs to test work in order to determine if it meets all of the specifications.
Evaluates their work at the end. Should evaluate the work as it progresses. Must evaluate each stage of a project as it develops.

Making
Has ability to change/modify plans throughout process with some support. Should attempt to modify plans without any support.
Produces work from own detailed time-plans. Is aware of resources as a constraint. Time plans need to take into account the resources available.
Shows some precision/accuracy when using equipment, tools, machinery and materials. Needs to examine how quality control is achieved in industry.

Level 5
(He/She)

Designing
Can use a variety of primary sources of information. Needs to visually show how useful this information has proven to be.
Investigates similar products in some depth. Needs more in-depth product analysis.
Can use variety of designing techniques. Needs to practice these techniques in order to acquire greater skills.
Understands characteristics of similar products. Must use a variety of methods to present their knowledge of the characteristics of similar products.
Tests and evaluates their work in order to find out if it meets all specifications. Needs to examine a greater variety of product and material testing systems.

Making
Shows more precision/accuracy when using equipment, tools, machinery and materials. Has examined how quality control systems are used in industry. Needs to apply some of these quality control systems to their own work.
Time plans do take into account the resources available. The time plans need to suggest where and how the resources will be acquired if not available in the department.


Level 5+
(He/She)
Designing
Does show how research collected throughout a project has proved to be useful. Needs to fully evaluate research materials and methods of investigation.
Does use product analysis techniques to evaluate similar products. Needs to explain in more detail how the product satisfies the needs of the target audience.
Uses presentation techniques to display their knowledge of the characteristics of similar products. Should investigate how the product was manufactured and which materials were used.
Can test materials for a number of properties. Needs to explain why these properties are suitable for their chosen product.
Evaluates not only the research but also initial designs. Needs to explain in more detail why one particular design was chosen and why others were rejected.

Making
Has ability to change plans throughout making process if problems arise. Should suggest alternative methods of making in plans
Produces time-plans showing the resources available. Needs to consider where resources may be collected if not available in department.
Does use quality control systems in order to achieve accuracy and quality of finish. Should consider making quality control devices such as jigs.
Does consistently use a variety of construction/modelling equipment. Must work with a greater variety of measuring, cutting and shaping tools.
Tests their work and suggest how the function of the product could be improved. Should evaluate how much maintenance is required to ensure that the product remains functioning.


 

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