Design and Technology curriculum
Intent
Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject that encourages children to learn, think and intervene creatively to solve problems, both as individuals and as members of a team. At Lanivet Primary school, we encourage children to use their creativity and imagination, to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. Where possible these are linked to our school value of ‘Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, and Healthy Planet.’ We also aim to make links to designs and designers throughout history, providing opportunities for children to critically reflect upon and evaluate their designs.
We aim to, wherever possible, link work to other disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art. This gives purpose and relevance to children.
Implementation
Through a variety of creative and practical activities, we teach the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage in an interactive process of designing and making. When designing and making, the school uses a set sequence of lessons to ensure the pupils ae familiar with the design cycle:
Design- Use research and development design criteria to design for a purpose and communicate through a range of mediums.
Make- Use a wider range of tools and equipment with accuracy and use a wider range of materials and components according to their qualities.
Evaluate- evaluate their ideas and products against their own design criteria and consider the views of others to improve their work.
Through this process, the aim is to develop the pupils’ technical knowledge and vocabulary in relation to structural design, mechanical and electrical systems, the integration of technology and food production and nutrition. In addition, the school aims for these tasks to reflect our schools value of ‘Healthy body, Healthy mind, Healthy planet.’ These links are highlighted in blue on all planning.
Impact
Summative assessments take place throughout the year and teachers record the progress and attainment against the National Curriculum expectations of attainment on our assessment system MAPPIX. Teachers use this information to inform future lessons; ensuring children are supported and challenged appropriately. This data is analysed on a termly basis to inform and address any trends or gaps in attainment.
Children will demonstrate independence in recalling previous skills and applying them in their DT work. Progress will be particularly evident when children are using skills taught in art when these skills are used in other projects. This will show the learning has been embedded.
Final end of year assessments are made using assessment criteria that has been developed in line with the national curriculum.