Our resources aim to give Design & Technology teachers and students a clear understanding of the requirements of the new specification GCSE Design and Technology course. The resources available from ACA Resources provide complete coverage of all theory required for the exam, as well as comprehensive guidance for the Non-exam assessment.
Our resources aim to give Design & Technology teachers and students a clear understanding of the requirements of the new specification GCSE Design and Technology course. The resources available from ACA Resources provide complete coverage of all theory required for the exam, as well as comprehensive guidance for the Non-exam assessment.
Tracker for GCSE (AQA) DT Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) Practice.
*Created to be used with the 'AQA GCSE DT NEA Practice Guide’
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/aqa-gcse-dt-nea-practice-guide-12181643
However it can be used independently.
Each column is a suggested page in the NEA. As students progress through, their work can be assessed page-by-page to give a GCSE grade standard (1-9). The grade is put in the corresponding column in the tracker. This is the only input required.
Features:
Auto generated section percentage
Auto generated section score (out of 10 for research, out of 20 for evaluation etc)
Auto generated overall score
Second tab: Auto generated visual progress tracker, in a bar chart showing students their overall current grade out of 100, with seperate bar sections showing where they are achieving their marks, and where they are lacking marks. This allows students to self-identify their area of focus to improve.
This tracker is intended for use when conducting a NEA practice, and is not intended for use with the live NEA, when students may require a less prescriptive approach
Guide for students on how the NEA (Non Exam Assessment) research, design, manufacture and evaluation process can be approached.
This covers suggestions for each stage.
Now includes editable version
Now also includes ultra-high resolution version of the NEA guide for high quality printing up to A0 size (841 x 1189 mm) for wall display
Complete Assessment Criteria for each section of the NEA, shown in a clear pathway for each stage of the NEA. This can be used for NEA practice as well as throughout the live NEA. The assessment criteria are for the top grade banding at each stage.
Included:
In depth guide for each individual stage including tips and things to avoid.
Pathway showing the assessment criteria (top grade band) for each stage of the research, design, manufacture and evaluation. This can be used as a student guide during practice and throughout the live NEA.
This guide is intended for use with GCSE DT (AQA) students as a NEA trial run before the start of the real NEA and is not intended to prescribe a specific way of undertaking the NEA.
AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Exam Theory - Section 2.4 - Textiles
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Section 2.4 - Textiles
Natural Fibres
Renewable Resources
Biodegradable
Cotton
Wool
Silk
Synthetic Fibres
Elastane
Polyester
Polyamide
Renewable Resources
Biodegradable
Yarn
Thread
Fabric
Woven
Knitted
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students absolute clarity when progressing through the theory required for the exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with a tracker designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity *(particularly effective when used with a tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enchanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (Available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on your tracker (which I recommend you set up, student names down the side, sub-sections along the top).
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course
AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Designing and Making - Product Analysis
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Designing and Making - Product Analysis
Product Analysis
Analysis Categories
Material Impact Analysis
Analysis of Processes
Social Impact
Fair Trade
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students clarity and confidence in preparation for both the NEA and the written exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with the tracker (available for free) designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity, *(particularly effective when used with the tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enhanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on the tracker (available for free).
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course
AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Exam Theory - Section 5.8 - Treatments and Finishes
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Section 5.8 - Treatments and Finishes
Painting
Varnishing
Tanalising
Metal Finishing
Dip Coating
Powder Coating
Galvanising
Plastic Vinyl
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students absolute clarity when progressing through the theory required for the exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with a tracker designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity *(particularly effective when used with a tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enchanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (Available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on your tracker (which I recommend you set up, student names down the side, sub-sections along the top).
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course
A-Level Design and Technology (Product Design)
Theory Section D (All 9 sections A through to I are also available)
Section D - Industry Requirements and Standards
Student Workbook
This workbook comprehensively covers all content from section D of the theory, required for the A-Level DT exams.
D1 - Modern Industrial and Commercial Practice
D2 - Digital Design and Manufacture
D3 - The Requirements for Product Design and Development
D4 - Health and Safety
D5 - Protecting Designs and Intellectual Property
The workbook can be used as a framework for teaching, as well as for student independent working.
Each sub-section includes worksheets and practice questions to aid retention and understanding of how the content may be presented in the exam.
Progress can be tracked using the free tracker available from ACA Resources on TES.
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/a-level-dt-theory-tracker-12396290
The content in this workbook has been designed to meet the demands of the AQA A-level in Design and Technology/ Product Design. The content also closely meets the requirements for Eduqas/WJEC, OCR and Edexcel.
GCSE Design and Technology (AQA)
Complete Theory Workbooks.
Also includes theory knowledge organisers for all 5 sections plus Designing and Making section.
This series of workbooks offer comprehensive coverage of the complete GCSE Design and Technology theory content.
Resources are fully editable and printable, meaning students can work through them digitally or in printed workbook format.
Download the accompanying free tracker to maximise student engagement.
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/aqa-gcse-dt-theory-tracker-12190083
All resources from Section 5 - Woods, Metals and Polymers.
This is one complete section out of the 5 that make up the GCSE Design and Technology theory. This resource comprehensively covers 1/5 of the theory requirements of GCSE DT.
All 5 sections are available from ACA Resources.
This bundle includes the following:
All 8 PowerPoint resources (Section 5.1 - 5.8)
All 8 A4 printable versions (Section 5.1 - 5.8)
Section 5 Knowledge Organiser
Now also includes the complete A4 printable workbook.
(If you would like to try the resources first, All Section 1.4 resources are available as a free sample)
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/aqa-gcse-dt-1-4-sustainability-and-social-issues-12196648
AQA GCSE Design and Technology - Knowledge Organiser for Section 1 - Key Ideas in Design and Technology
Knowledge Organiser containing all of the key words needed in Section 1 - Key Ideas in Design and Technology, in preparation for the AQA GCSE Design and Technology exam.
The sections in this knowledge organiser are aligned with the sections in the AQA GCSE Design and Technology revision guide by CGP Books.
This knowledge organiser is particularly effective when used in combination with our other theory resources to be found in our store.
Knowledge organisers are also available for all other sections (Sections 1-5).
Suggestions for use:
Print out the knowledge organisers as a booklet for your GCSE students. You may also consider creating a version with the descriptions in blank, so that students can use it a a worksheet to test themselves on their knowledge and identify gaps in knowledge.
AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Exam Theory - Section 5.2 - Stock Forms and Standard Components
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Section 5.2 - Stock Forms and Standard Components
Timber Stock Forms
Planed Square Edge
Rough Sawn
Mouldings
Boards
Metal Stock Forms
Rod
Sheet
Tube
Strip
I-Section
Polymer Stock Forms
Ready to Use (rods, sheets, tubes)
Foam
Films
Granules
Powder
Standard Components
Temporary Fixings
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students absolute clarity when progressing through the theory required for the exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with a tracker designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity *(particularly effective when used with a tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enchanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (Available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on your tracker (which I recommend you set up, student names down the side, sub-sections along the top).
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course
AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Exam Theory - Section 2.2 - Paper, Board and Timber
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Section 2.2 - Paper, Board and Timber
Paper Properties
Cartridge Paper
Layout Paper
Tracing Paper
Grid Paper
Bleed-Proof Paper
Board Types and Uses
Solid White Board
Ink Jet
Corrugated
Duplex
Foam Core
Foil Lined
Hardwood
Softwood
Timber
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students absolute clarity when progressing through the theory required for the exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with a tracker designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity *(particularly effective when used with a tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enchanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (Available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on your tracker (which I recommend you set up, student names down the side, sub-sections along the top).
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course
AQA GCSE Design and Technology - Knowledge Organiser for all theory key words, with pictures and description.
Knowledge Organiser containing all of the key words needed for the AQA GCSE Design and Technology exam.
The sections in this knowledge organiser are aligned with the sections in the AQA GCSE Design and Technology revision guide by CGP Books.
This knowledge organiser is particularly effective when used in combination with our other theory resources to be found in our store.
Suggestions for use:
Print out the knowledge organisers as a booklet for your GCSE students.
Can be printed as wall posters.
A-Level Design and Technology (Product Design)
Theory Section A (All 9 sections A through to I are also available)
Section A - Materials, Characteristics and Uses
Student Workbook
This workbook comprehensively covers all content from section A of the theory, required for the A-Level DT exams.
A1 - Materials and their Applications
A2 - Classification of Materials
A3 - Methods for Investigating and Testing Materials
A4 - Performance Characteristics of Paper and Board
A5 - Performance Characteristics of Paper and Board
A6 - Performance Characteristics of Woods
A7 - Performance Characteristics of Metals
A8 - Performance Characteristics of Polymers
The workbook can be used as a framework for teaching, as well as for student independent working.
Each sub-section includes worksheets and practice questions to aid retention and understanding of how the content may be presented in the exam.
Progress can be tracked using the free tracker available from ACA Resources on TES.
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/a-level-dt-theory-tracker-12396290
The content in this workbook has been designed to meet the demands of the AQA A-level in Design and Technology/ Product Design. The content also closely meets the requirements for Eduqas/WJEC, OCR and Edexcel.
A-Level Design and Technology (Product Design)
Complete Theory Workbooks.
This series of workbooks offer comprehensive coverage of the complete A-Level Design and Technology / Product Design theory content.
Resources are fully editable and printable, meaning students can work through them digitally or in printed workbook format.
Download the accompanying free tracker to maximise student engagement.
AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Exam Theory - Section 1.3 - Sustainability
Free tracker available to be used alongside theory resources
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/aqa-gcse-dt-theory-tracker-12190083
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Section 1.3 - Sustainability
Sustainability
Finite Materials
Non-Finite Materials
Carbon Footprint
Product Lifecycle
Greenhouse Gases
Global Warming
Obsolete
Planned Obsolescence
Modular Electronics
Durability
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students absolute clarity when progressing through the theory required for the exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with a tracker designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity *(particularly effective when used with a tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enchanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (Available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on the tracker.
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course
All resources from Section 1 - Key Ideas in Design and Technology.
This is one complete section out of the 5 that make up the GCSE Design and Technology theory. This resource comprehensively covers 1/5 of the theory requirements of GCSE DT.
All 5 sections are available from ACA Resources.
This bundle includes the following:
All 6 PowerPoint resources (Section 1.1 - 1.6)
All 6 A4 printable versions (Section 1.1 - 1.6)
Section 1 Knowledge Organiser
Now also includes the complete A4 printable workbook.
(If you would like to try the resources first, All Section 1.4 resources are available as a free sample)
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/aqa-gcse-dt-1-4-sustainability-and-social-issues-12196648
AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Exam Theory - Section 3.2 - Forces and Stresses
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Section 3.2 - Forces and Stresses
Forces and Stresses
Tension
Compression
Shear
Bending
Torsion
Reinforcing and Stiffening
Lamination
Webbing
Folding
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students absolute clarity when progressing through the theory required for the exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with a tracker designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity *(particularly effective when used with a tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enchanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (Available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on your tracker (which I recommend you set up, student names down the side, sub-sections along the top).
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course
AQA GCSE DT - Review Booklet Sections 1-3
This booklet is designed to allow students to engage in short review tasks for retrieval practice of theory lesson content.
The review booklet is designed to accompany the theory lessons, which can be found at ACA Resources on TES
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/complete-gcse-dt-theory-workbooks-12191361
Tracker to be used with the AQA GCSE DT Theory Resources (Available on TES ACAResources).
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resources/shop/ACAResources
Simple input:
1 = Section Complete
h = Section set for homework
n = Section not complete or overdue
blank = Section not yet set
Includes visual percentage completion bars (auto-generated) to give teacher and students clarity and opportunity for individual target setting.
Also includes student tickbox sheet.
Encourages students to take ownership of their learning of the exam theory, and the visual progress scores provide motivation and clear goals.
Students can work on different sections where appropriate, and in many cases students may wish to complete sections individually in their own time and bring them back to be ‘checked off’.
Each AQA GCSE DT Theory resource includes exam style questioning which can be used to further check understanding of each section upon completion.
This is a free sample from the ACA Resources GCSE DT theory series
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resources/shop/ACAResources
*AQA GCSE Design and Technology (DT) - Exam Theory - Section 1.4 - Sustainability and Social Issues
This resource contains all of the key knowledge that the students are required to know for Section 1.4 - Sustainability and Social Issues
Continuous Improvement
Lifecycle Assessment
Recycling
The 6 Rs
Social Factors
Working Conditions
Health Impacts
The sections in these resources align with the sections in the AQA DT revision guide by CGP Books, which gives students absolute clarity when progressing through the theory required for the exam.
These resources have been developed with the following goals in mind:
Allows learners to work through the theory independently, promoting challenge for all learners and ability levels
Disruptive students have less effect on the progress of the learners, as the resources encourage independent learning.
Promotes a love of learning, as learners self-motivate. This is particularly effective when the series of resources is used in combination with a tracker designed to show learners their progress through the resources.
Allows independent home learning to be set that follows on and links clearly with the classwork.
Ensures that students have covered all theory required for the exam, with absolute clarity *(particularly effective when used with a tracker)
Suggested strategy:
This resource is one sub-section. When used as a complete section the following strategy can be adopted:
Begin the lesson by discussion of key words and ideas required in this sub-section. This can be enchanced with related videos from sites such as YouTube.
Encourage students to independently research each concept they come across in the activity by using the internet, CGP revision guide, knowledge organiser (Available seperately), peer discussion, teacher discussion etc.
At the end of each resource there are exam-style questions to prepare students for how the knowledge may need to be applied in the exam.
When the sub-section is complete, students get this checked by the teacher and marked off on your tracker (which I recommend you set up, student names down the side, sub-sections along the top).
The student can then move on to the next sub-section at their own pace, or if you wish to keep the class at the same point, they can act as consultants for the other students in the class, further cementing their knowledge.
These resources have been tested, developed and implemented across our academy and have had a drastic impact on student preparedness for the exam, exam results, and student engagement with the course. The resources can also be used at KS3 in preparation for the GCSE course