Intent
Through Design and Technology, pupils use their creative knowledge and skills to design, make and evaluate products. We understand that children who enter our school have limited experiences in working with a range of materials, tools and equipment. The intent for Design and Technology is for pupils to use creativity and imagination to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts. Pupils will explore new vocabulary and will be taught how to use the tools and techniques needed to create their designs safely. Where possible our designs will be linked to our topics, however specific skills may need to be taught in stand-alone lessons. As well as designing, making and evaluating products pupils will explore cooking and nutrition. Pupils will understand the importance of a balanced and healthy diet.
Implementation
Teachers will use the National Curriculum for KS1 and the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework alongside the Jackfield Infant School Progression of Knowledge and Skills document to ensure all key elements of the subject are covered.
Powerful Knowledge
Teachers will ensure pupils are introduced to the key concepts in Design and Technology. Pupils will understand which part of the design process they are focussing on through the use of these key concepts. Pupils will be introduced to key subject vocabulary linked to Design and Technology and they will be given examples of how this vocabulary relates to each process they are working on. Children will be taught the key skill of evaluating through evaluating existing products which the children have no emotional link towards. They will be taught how to be objective, ask questions and how to challenge each other’s ideas in a safe environment. We provide a wide range of activities including construction kits, junk modelling, levers, mechanisms and food technology. Our DT projects are made purposeful within the context of wider topics which capture the interest of our pupils.
Excellence for all
Teachers will follow the progression of knowledge and skills document to ensure that teaching is pitched at the correct level and that children are building on prior skills. Lessons will be planned in a way in which all children can access new skills whilst giving those who need it, the chance to revisit prior skills taught. Targeted support will be provided by staff when necessary. Adapted resources and tools are provided to ensure our DT curriculum is inclusive for all. New learning is presented in small steps with scaffolding and support. Identify support using DT evaluation grid.
Literacy
The pupils are taught to understand and use subject-specific vocabulary. Pupils are taught to ask questions and evaluate giving reasons for their thoughts. Pupils will respond to the thoughts and ideas of others and know that these views may differ. Reading is used as a tool to read instructions, plans and recipes.
Wider world
Pupils should develop their knowledge and understanding of the use of design and technology in the wider world. Teachers should ensure children are exposed to a variety of products to use as inspiration for their designs and to help them understand the relevance of this subject in their lives. Educational visits are planned where possible to see the use of technology in the local area for example Middleport Pottery, Stanley Head. Extra curricular clubs are made available where learnt skills can be applied. Examples have included Cookery club, Lego club and Construction club.
Impact
Our Design and Technology curriculum is high quality and carefully constructed to build upon prior knowledge, so children can remember and learn more. Our pupils enjoy learning about the world and develop the skills and knowledge relevant to be able to work within the design and technology industry.
We measure the impact of our curriculum through the following methods:
• Pre and post learning quizzes based upon our knowledge organisers are used to support effective learning through recall.
• Pupil discussions about their learning demonstrate what they remember.
• Pupils develop a greater understanding of the world around them.