Design Technology

The Intent of our Design Technology Curriculum

Our Design Technology curriculum teaches children through real-life problems and scenarios which are explored and potentially solved through building knowledge of the world and exploring processes using different materials. Children understand the way that DT can contribute to how we use and make things to better our own lives and look after our world. This then motivates them to design a product, for a user, for a purpose. We intend for children to show tenacity in their DT work and encourage them to adopt a cyclic process of testing, refining and developing their ideas, designs and products. We also allow children the opportunity to test their products in an authentic way with real-life scenarios, taking on a deeper understanding of the product’s function and have greater ownership of their work. The content of our curriculum is underpinned by the six big ideas known as the ‘Star Diagram’ and as a result products are innovative, authentic and functional.

Read more about the implementation and impact of our Design Technology curriculum in the below document

Alderbrook Design Technology Curriculum

DT Big Ideas

• The User - who will use the product such as a small child, an elderly person or even a pet!
• The Purpose - what will the product be used for? For example to entertain, to educate or to solve a problem
• Innovation - It is important to spark creativity where possible. We want our pupils to test out their ideas and take risks.
• Authenticity - we will be using the product in real life to solve a problem scenario for our user.
• Functionality - What does our product need to include to function correctly? Perhaps sanded wood to feel smooth or a zip with a handle to open something.
• Design Decisions - We need to make links with the skills we are learning, the materials we have access to and how equipment can be used effectively. Design decisions will need to be made, products tested and evaluated so this cyclic process can allow children to make observations and link the purpose of the product to the world around them.