Attributes of a Most Able Learner in Design Technology & Graphics

The attributes of a most able learner in Design Technology & Graphics focuses on learners who demonstrate exceptional aptitude, engagement, and a deeper understanding within the broad spectrum of Technology subjects (which include Design & Technology, and Graphics at KS3). They generate a wide range of original ideas and solutions, often thinking “outside the box”. They often demonstrate advanced practical skills when working with tools, materials, and digital technologies. They are willing to try new techniques and approaches without fear of failure, seeing mistakes as learning opportunities. They can manage their time and resources effectively to achieve high-quality outcomes. They ask insightful questions and show a genuine interest in exploring technological concepts in depth.

Learning Outside of the Classroom

Learning outside the classroom for KS3 Technology offers students valuable opportunities to connect their classroom knowledge with the real world. At home, learners can engage in mini-projects using recycled materials or basic electronics kits, enhancing their hands-on skills. Digital platforms like Sketch Up, Tinkercad and Fusion 360 allow for continued design and CAD work, similarly PhotoPea or ProCreate can help develop Graphic design skills digitally. Virtual museum tours, research into package branding and online competitions provide enrichment beyond school. Cross-curricular projects, such as sustainability journals or culturally inspired product designs, also deepen learners’ understanding and encourage independent learning across subjects.

How We Support Most Able Learners in Lessons

Disciplinary Skill/Knowledge Tailored Support
Being able to work independently

  1. To take initiative in practical tasks
  2. Be able to select appropriate tools and equipment
  3. Manage their time and plan towards a final presented outcome
  • Learners are given working drawings that they need to follow independently. Learners need to be able to read and understand the drawings to complete the task independently. They need to identify their equipment to complete the task successfully using a gantt chart planning their time and building their resilience.
Be able to use appropriate Tier 3 terminology
  • Teaching staff cater lessons to include Tier 3 vocabulary, visuals around the room as well as high order questioning based on the curriculum and specification.
Develop a range of practical skills
  • Excellent curriculum planning along with teacher high quality demonstrations to help learners then work independent and confidently.
Communication and teamwork/ Job roles
  • Learners will be given the opportunity to learn and understand different roles within the Design Technology and Graphics workplace. Learners experience working with others as well as individually and the projects give learners the opportunity to gain confidence when presenting their ideas either to peers or in front of the class.
Have a variety of knowledge and understanding
  • Through wider reading, podcasts, or TV learners have a wider knowledge beyond the core powerful knowledge. Examples will be constantly given from industry experience from the teacher and any updated operations within the industry will be discussed throughout lessons.

 

What Can Parents/Carers Do To Support?

There are many things you can do to support your child in Technology. Make sure there is a range of drawing material/equipment at home. Encourage visiting museums and galleries. Encourage questioning of DT even if they are not heavily invested in it. Most designing is now done on computers. Help your child access free 3-D and 2-D programs. Encourage your child to find out about design online. Promoting independence. Websites such as Sketch up and Photopea are great for creativity.

 

Useful Websites

https://www.technologystudent.com
(Design Technology)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z23vkhv
(Design Technology)

http://www.design-technology.info/home.htm
(Design & Technology)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zv2v4wx/revision/1
(Graphics)

https://www.technologystudent.com/designpro/drawdex.htm
(Graphics)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zf2ck2p#zm33f82
(Hospitality and Catering)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zhkbn9q#z8h72v4
(Hospitality and Catering)

https://designmuseum.org
(Design Museum)

https://www.vam.ac.uk
(V&A Museum)

https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
(Tate Modern)

https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain
(Tate Britain)

https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/Pages/Home.aspx
(Careers)