AQA GCSE Design and Technology Past Papers & Mark Schemes

AQA GCSE Design and Technology (specification code 8552) combines a written examination with a substantial non-exam assessment (NEA). The written paper accounts for 50% of the final grade, while the NEA — a design and make project — accounts for the other 50%. Paper 1 covers core technical principles and designing and making principles. It lasts 2 hours and is worth 100 marks. Section A (core technical principles, 50 marks) assesses knowledge of: new and emerging technologies, energy generation and storage, developments in new materials, systems approach to designing, mechanical devices, and the impact of technology on society and the environment. Section B (specialist technical principles, 20 marks) covers the application of knowledge in a specialist material area — students are assessed on timber, metals, polymers, textiles, papers and boards, or electronic and mechanical systems. Section C (designing and making principles, 30 marks) covers design strategies, the use of mathematics and scientific understanding in design, the meaning and importance of sustainability, and manufacturing processes. The written paper is non-tiered and assesses a wide range of topics in a relatively short time. Questions include short-answer recall, extended answer analysis, and design evaluation. The NEA requires students to design and make a functional product in response to a brief, demonstrating technical skill, creativity, and an understanding of materials and manufacturing processes.