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Autumn

Evaluating and improving products		• Product design involves solving real-world problems by meeting a client’s needs.
• The design process starts with researching and understanding the problem.
• ACCESSFM is a method used to evaluate existing products (Aesthetics, Cost, Client, Environment, Safety, Size, Function, Material).
• Anthropometrics refers to the study of human body measurements, which are important for creating functional designs.
• Sketches are an important first step in turning ideas into physical designs.
• Modeling a design can help test and visualize a product before making it.
• Playdoh and other materials can be used to quickly create physical models.
• Successful products need to consider the needs and limitations of the intended user or client.
• Existing products can provide insights into how to improve new designs.
• Refining a design through iteration (development of sketches and models) is key to improving the final product.		Design
• Research a design problem by identifying key issues and possible solutions.
• Identify and understand the needs of a client or target audience for your product.
• Generate a range of design ideas by sketching various solutions.
• Develop initial sketches into more detailed designs.
• Present design ideas clearly and convincingly to others.
Make
• Model ideas in 3D using materials like playdoh.
• Test and adapt models based on practical limitations or user feedback.
Evaluate
• Use ACCESSFM to analyze and evaluate existing products effectively.
• Evaluate and improve a design through peer feedback and self-assessment.
Technical Knowledge
• Apply anthropometric data to ensure a design fits the user properly.		Autumn

Textiles: doorstop		• Fabric door stops require careful planning of design and functionality
• Different fabrics have unique properties affecting their suitability for certain products.
• A variety of decorative techniques can enhance the appearance of fabric products.
• Fabric painting and applique are key techniques for adding detail and texture.
• Door stops must balance aesthetics and weight to function effectively.
• Sustainability and material choice are important considerations in product design.
• Hand-sewing and machine-sewing offer different levels of precision and durability.
• Successful product needs to appeal to the target market of a local gift shop.
• Accurate measurements and seam allowances are essential in creating a functional product.
• Designers need to consider ergonomics and practicality in everyday household items.		Design
• Design a door stop that fits the theme and appeals to the target market.
• Follow a design process from research to final product evaluation.
• Incorporate functional elements such as stuffing and weighting materials into a design.
Make
• Select and prepare appropriate fabrics based on their properties and aesthetics.
• Apply fabric painting techniques to decorate creatively.
• Create and use applique designs to add dimension and interest to a fabric project.
• Use a sewing machine to stitch seams and decorative elements with precision.
• Measure, cut, and pin fabric accurately to create the shape of a door stop.
Evaluate
• Create a prototype and test the functionality.
• Evaluate the finished product and suggest improvements based on feedback.
Technical Knowledge
• Select and prepare appropriate fabrics based on their properties and aesthetics.
• Use a sewing machine to stitch seams and decorative elements with precision.
• Measure, cut, and pin fabric accurately to create the shape of a door stop.
• Incorporate functional elements such as stuffing and weighting materials into a design.		Autumn

Textiles:
festival headgear		• Design specifications are essential for guiding the development of a product to meet the user's needs.
• Iterative design involves a continuous process of testing and refining ideas to improve a product.
• Materials and processes used in textiles can have varying impacts on the environment throughout their lifecycle.
• The concept of cradle-to-grave considers the full life cycle of a product, from creation to disposal.
• The circular economy promotes sustainable practices by designing products that can be reused, repaired, or recycled.
• Design choices should reflect both aesthetic and functional considerations for specific users or contexts.
• Different types of textiles have varying properties, which influence their use in headgear.
• Safety, comfort, and durability are key considerations in designing headgear for real-world use.
• Sustainable design can minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.
• The fashion and festival industry can influence textile design trends and product innovation.		Design
• Develop a clear design specification based on the needs of a festival visitor.
• Design with sustainability in mind, considering factors such as material selection and waste reduction.
• Use sketches, diagrams, and models to communicate design ideas clearly.
Make
• Apply basic textile construction techniques (e.g., stitching, cutting, joining) to create functional headgear.
• Work safely with textile tools and equipment, following health and safety guidelines.
Evaluate
• Use iterative design principles to test, evaluate, and refine headgear designs.
• Evaluate the aesthetic and functional qualities of headgear in relation to user needs.
• Present a final product that meets both the design specification and the principles of sustainability.
Technical Knowledge
• Select appropriate textiles based on their properties, including sustainability, durability, and comfort.
• Research and apply the principles of cradle-to-grave and the circular economy to product design.
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Spring

Inspired by Industry
Promotional Display		• Understanding the customer’s needs and preferences is key when designing products or displays.
• Packaging plays a critical role in influencing consumer decisions.
• Structural systems, such as shell and frame, are used to support displays and exhibition stands.
• Different materials like wood, polymers, metals, and paper have unique properties that make them suitable for various design tasks.
• Visual communication techniques, such as using color and typography, can grab attention and promote products.
• The six R’s (reduce, reuse, recycle, etc.) are important for ensuring sustainability in design.
• CAD (Computer-Aided Design) can improve accuracy and efficiency when developing product packaging or displays.
• Creating successful retail displays requires a balance of aesthetics, function, and customer appeal.
• Good packaging design must consider both form and function, including ease of use and sustainability.
• Mathematics and science play essential roles in calculating dimensions and understanding material properties in design projects.		Design
• Create a design brief that meets customer and business needs.
• Use CAD software to develop accurate models of packaging or display units.
• Design and assemble nets for packaging using paper and board materials.
• Incorporate sustainable practices into packaging design to reduce environmental impact.
• Create visual merchandising displays that catch customers’ attention.
• Apply visual communication techniques, such as layout and color theory, to make packaging or displays stand out.
Make
• Shape and form materials such as wood or polymers to create prototypes for designs.
Evaluate
• Evaluate and improve your design based on user feedback and testing.
• Analyse the materials used in retail displays and point of sale designs.
Technical Knowledge
• Assess different structural systems (shell and frame) to determine which is most suitable for a project.		Spring

Funny Ugly Monsters		• Design can challenge stereotypes by promoting diverse ideas of beauty.
• Sustainable design choices help protect the environment.
• Different materials like fabrics, paper, and board can have various properties and uses in design.
• Precision cutting is essential for creating accurate and safe designs.
• Basic tools need to be handled with care and responsibility.
• Health and safety protocols must always be followed in a workshop environment.
• Sketching and drawing are critical steps in communicating design ideas effectively.
• Different drawing techniques (freehand, isometric, orthographic) are used to present ideas in technical and creative ways.		Design
• Create designs that challenge stereotypes of beauty through creative toy-making.
• Freehand sketch initial design concepts for a toy.
• Draw in isometric view to represent 3D designs clearly.
• Produce exploded drawings to show the internal components of a toy.
• Create a third orthographic drawing to give detailed views of a design from different angles.
Make
• Select materials thoughtfully, focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly options.
• Cut with precision using basic tools like scissors, craft knives, and rulers.
• Use various materials like fabric and cardboard effectively in the construction of toys.
• Follow health and safety protocols when working with sharp tools and materials.
Evaluate
• Incorporate feedback to improve your design process and final product.
Technical Knowledge
• Freehand sketch initial design concepts for a toy.
• Draw in isometric view to represent 3D designs clearly.
• Produce exploded drawings to show the internal components of your toy.
• Create a third orthographic drawing to give detailed views of your design from different angles.		Spring

Smart Solutions:
Designing an Innovative Litter Bin with Electronics

























Cooking and Nutrition		• Different materials have varying properties that impact the durability, functionality, and aesthetics of a design solution.
• Electronic components such as sensors and actuators can be used to create interactive and functional prototypes.
• The design process involves multiple stages, including research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and evaluation.
• Sustainability is a key consideration when designing products, especially those intended to reduce environmental impact.
• 3D modeling and simulation tools like Tinkercad allow designers to visualize and test ideas before physical construction.
• Using Crumble for programming electronic components can make products interactive, such as using motion sensors to open bin lids.
• Teamwork and collaboration are essential in the design and engineering process to produce creative solutions.
• Feedback from peers and potential users can improve a prototype during the design iteration phase.









•Poor food hygiene can lead to foodborne illnesses.
• Bacteria grow rapidly in certain conditions, making food unsafe to eat.
• The correct storage and handling of food can prevent contamination.
• Different cooking methods (e.g., boiling, baking, frying) affect food’s taste, texture, and nutritional value.
• Precision in measurements, timing, and temperature control are key in successful cooking.
• Heat alters the chemical structure of food, leading to changes in flavour, colour, and texture.		Design
• Identify and analyze the causes of littering in a school environment to inform design decisions.
• Sketch initial design ideas, exploring various shapes, sizes, and materials for your prototype.
• Use Tinkercad to create 3D models of your prototype bin, including structural features and housing for electronics.
• Use recycled or sustainable materials in the design to make the solution environmentally friendly.
• Present and communicate your design ideas effectively, using sketches, digital models, and prototypes.
Make
• Wire and assemble electronic components such as ultrasonic sensors, LEDs, and motors into a functional circuit.
• Safely handle and operate tools and equipment when creating physical models and prototypes.
Evaluate
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a design solution based on user feedback and testing results.
Technical Knowledge
• Use the Crumble microcontroller to program sensors, LEDs, and motors to create an interactive litter bin prototype.
• Write basic code in Crumble software to control the interaction between sensors and other components.

Cooking and Nutrition
• Use correct handwashing techniques and kitchen safety practices.
• Safely prepare and store raw and cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.
• Follow proper food safety procedures when cooking, including the use of different cutting boards and tools.
• Use a variety of cooking techniques such as sautéing, simmering, and baking.
• Weigh and measure ingredients accurately using kitchen scales and measuring tools.
• Follow a recipe step-by-step and adjust seasoning or ingredients where necessary.
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Summer

Staying safe in the dark: wearable light		• Staying visible in low-light conditions improves personal safety.
• Wearable technology combines textiles and electronics to create functional clothing.
• Conductive thread can be used to create circuits in fabric-based designs.
• LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) are energy-efficient light sources for wearable designs.
• Press studs can be used as switches to control circuits.
• Fabric choice affects the durability and comfort of wearable products.
• Safety and functionality are key considerations in designing products for night-time visibility.
• Designing for a target user involves considering needs like comfort, visibility, and ease of use.
• Proper care and maintenance are important for ensuring wearable electronics function safely.
• Working with electrical circuits involves handling conductive materials and components safely.		Design
• Design a functional wearable light for use in low-light conditions.
• Plan and mark out a pattern for a wearable item that fits and is comfortable.
• Select suitable fabrics and materials for durability, flexibility, and comfort in wearable designs.
Make
• Sew using conductive thread to create a working circuit within a textile project.
• Attach and connect LEDs to fabric using conductive materials.
• Incorporate press studs as on/off switches in an electrical circuit.
• Use a sewing machine or hand-sewing techniques to assemble the textile components.
Evaluate
• Test and troubleshoot circuits to ensure they work effectively and safely.
• Evaluate your final product for effectiveness in providing visibility and comfort.
Technical Knowledge
• Follow safety guidelines when working with electronic components and textiles.		Summer

Inspired by industry:
Accessible controllers		• Ergonomics is the study of how products can be designed to fit the needs and comfort of users.
• Accessible design is important for creating products that everyone, including those with disabilities, can use easily.
• Different materials like polymers, card, and expanded foam can affect the shape, feel, and function of a product.
• Polymers can be used to create lightweight and durable products for everyday use.
• Expanded foam is a flexible material that can be shaped to improve grip and comfort.
• Slot car controllers need to be user-friendly and comfortable to hold for extended periods.
• The design process involves researching, planning, prototyping, testing, and refining a product.
• Materials behave differently when shaped, cut, or joined, and this affects the overall design.
• The needs of people with disabilities or limited hand mobility must be considered when designing accessible products.		Design
• Apply ergonomic principles to design slot car controllers that are comfortable to hold.
• Design accessible products that cater to a wide range of users, including those with limited dexterity.
• Sketch design ideas, annotate them, and develop concepts for an accessible controller.
• Use digital tools to model and refine designs before creating physical prototypes.
Make
• Create prototypes using materials like card, expanded foam, and polymers.
• Assemble and join different materials to create a functional and ergonomic controller.
• Use tools and techniques safely when working with expanded foam and polymers.
Evaluate
• Evaluate a product’s effectiveness by testing it with different users.
• Refine designs based on user feedback to improve accessibility and comfort.
Technical Knowledge
• Test the strength, flexibility, and durability of polymers and other materials.		Summer


Inspired by Industry:
The future of recipe boxes



























Cooking and Nutrition		• Recipe boxes are part of a growing industry focused on convenience, sustainability, and reducing food waste.
• Different types of paper and board materials can be used for packaging, and each has unique properties like strength, recyclability, and cost.
• Nets and developments are used in packaging design to create 3D forms from flat materials.
• Shell structures provide strength and stability for packaging, especially for food products.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) allows designers to create accurate, detailed models of packaging and food-related products.
• Food packaging must adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards to protect the consumer.
• Visual communication in packaging design includes elements such as color, typography, and imagery to attract customers and communicate brand identity.
• Nutritional information and portion control are key considerations when designing recipe boxes.
• Maths and science are used to calculate materials, weights, and volumes in packaging design and food preparation.
• Sustainable materials and practices are increasingly important in the design and manufacturing of packaging for recipe boxes.


• Different cultures have traditional dishes influenced by geography, religion, and climate.
• Seasonal foods are those that are at their peak of freshness and flavour during a specific time of year.
• Using seasonal and local ingredients can be more sustainable and flavourful.		Design
• Plan a balanced, nutritious meal that fits within the design of a recipe box.
• Use CAD software to design the net of a food packaging box.
• Design packaging that protects food products while minimizing material waste.
• Incorporate visual communication elements into packaging design to enhance brand appeal.
• Apply nutrition and food safety principles when planning and designing recipe boxes.
Make
• Create prototypes of packaging using different papers and boards to test functionality.
• Develop shell structures from nets and materials like paper and board.
Evaluate
• Evaluate the sustainability of different packaging materials.
Technical Knowledge
• Measure and calculate the surface area and volume needed for a packaging design using basic maths.
• Use science principles, such as thermal properties, to design packaging that preserves food quality.








Cooking and Nutrition
• Prepare a culturally significant dish following a traditional recipe.
• Identify seasonal ingredients and incorporate them into a recipe.
• Understand how to adapt recipes using available and sustainable ingredients.
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