What will children learn?
Our Design Technology curriculum is very practical and enables children to develop the skills and knowledge of; designing, structures, mechanisms and materials. Children are encouraged to work critically and creatively within a variety of different contents and to develop the skills and knowledge that enables them to become problem solvers.
How will children learn?
Each project within our DT curriculum incorporates researching, designing, making, evaluating and developing an understanding of technical knowledge.
Research
Children will begin to generate ideas by researching, analysing and evaluating past and present examples of existing products. They will develop the skills that they need in order to make their products, as well as ensuring that they develop an understanding of the Health and Safety measures that they need to adhere to, in order to support their use of materials, tools and cooking equipment.
Design
Referring to the design brief and considering the purpose, function and target audience of their product, children will generate their own designs. They will convey their designs through sketches and discussions in Key Stage 1 and in Key Stage 2 they will use annotated diagrams and prototypes.
Make
Referring to their plans, children will apply their practical knowledge to bring their design to life. Should children encounter problems with their design, they will be encouraged to problem solve and adapt their plans.
Evaluate
Children will evaluate their final product against the design brief and consider the views of others to improve their work.
Technical Knowledge
Key skills and knowledge relating to DT has been mapped across the school from Early Years to the end of Key Stage 2. This shows the progression between the technical skills and knowledge that the children acquire and build upon each year including measuring, cutting, joining, strengthening and the use of mechanical and electrical systems.
Cooking and Nutrition
Food technology is taught within each year group, to ensure that children develop an understanding of where food comes from, the importance of a varied and healthy diet and how to prepare this. During their time at Thundersley Primary School there is also the opportunity for children to work with ‘Roots to food’ in order to work with trained professionals who promote healthy living and teach children the skills needed to make a popular dish from a different county.
What will children achieve?
- Have a solid understanding of the design process; project title, purpose, user, brief, design, make and evaluate.
- Be able to effectively use a range of different tools and techniques.
- Have developed an understanding of ‘nutrition’ and learn the skills necessary to prepare and cook simple recipes.