Monday 06 February 2012
Design & Technology - Electronic Products

All pupils follow the AQA Electronic Products specification, and will normally be entered for the Higher Tier examination, as this gives access to all grades.

The syllabus covers basic electronic theoretical knowledge, and how this can be applied in practical ways. Typical projects include alarms, timing circuits and counters (eg electronic dice) which the pupils design and make in Year 11. Year 10 is used to give background information in a variety of different types of circuit so that pupils can choose an appropriate project in their final year.

The emphasis is roughly 65% on electronics theory and circuit building, and 35% on making a case to house the electronics.

Assessment:

60% of the marks are awarded for coursework. This consists of the practical project designed and made in Year 11, and an accompanying design folder of about 25-30 pages.

40% of the marks are awarded for the theory exam.