Design and Technology
DT is an inspiring and practical subject which is widely enjoyed by our children at Whitby Heath. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems using a variety of techniques, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful and innovative. At Whitby Heath the children learn through the key topics mechanisms, structures, food, textiles, mechanical systems and electrical systems. Our knowledge organisers focus on the following 6 essential areas:
User – children should have a clear idea of who they are designing and making products for, considering their needs, wants, interests or
preferences.
• Purpose – children should know what the products they design and make are for. Each product should perform a clearly defined task that can be evaluated in use.
• Functionality – children should design and make products that function in some way to be successful. Products often combine aesthetic qualities with functional characteristics.
• Design Decisions – when designing and making, children need opportunities to make
informed decisions such as selecting materials, components and techniques and deciding what form the products will take, how they will work, what task they will perform and who they are for.
• Innovation – when designing and making, children need some scope to be original with their thinking. Projects that encourage innovation lead to a range of design ideas and
products being developed, characterised by engaging, open-ended starting points for children's learning.
• Authenticity – children should design and make products that are believable, real and meaningful to themselves i.e. not replicas or reproductions or models which do not provide opportunities for children to make design decisions with clear users and purposes in mind.
Mrs Madden- D.T. Lead