WIS Prospectus 2012 - West Island School New Portal

FACULTY AND CURRICULUM INFORMATION
DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & ICT
Design & Technology is a unique subject that offers a wide range of experiences, methods
of working and challenging situations for students of all ages and abilities.
Design & Technology is a practical subject, which always involves students in designing
and making products that have a function. Its practical nature involves students in
developing their own personal abilities and knowledge across a wide range of skills,
equipment and materials which include engineering, textiles, graphic media, construction
materials (wood, metal, and plastics) and food.
At West Island School we aim to involve all students in creatively applying knowledge,
skills and experiences in designing, making and evaluating appropriate and high level
outcomes that satisfy perceived needs. We aim to foster a sense of achievement, pride
and satisfaction for all in their enjoyment of Design & Technology activities.
The Design & Technology Curriculum aims to develop in students a technological
capability by providing them with the opportunity to solve problems by designing and
making products. The department believes that Design & Technology activities should be
challenging and stimulating for pupils in order to foster enjoyment, inquiry, excitement
and satisfaction from the practical learning experiences they encounter. Students will
also draw upon knowledge and skills from other curriculum areas – particularly Science,
Art, Mathematics and English.
The appropriate skills and knowledge in Design & Technology enables students to identify
and respond to design opportunities with increasing competence and independence,
exercising the intellectual skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation in a wide range of
contexts. We also aim for our students to:
• Develop and acquire a wide range of communication skills – in particular
presentation techniques.
• Foster the development of practical skills, independence, self-determination and the
ability to work as a team where necessary.
• Develop and acquire a range of practical skills, which will enable them to cut, shape,
join, and combine a range of materials safely and appropriately.
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