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In S1
and S2 Technical education is studied by all pupils to develop an awareness
and appreciation of Technical Communication, Designing and Manufacturing
processes. The course uses a Problem Solving approach to demonstrate
the various methods which can be used during the manufacture of an article
within the Technical workshops.
The
Subject Skills
1.
Designing - Good design is essential in
everything and skills are developed which enable pupils to identify good and
bad design elements in everyday articles by examining e.g. the
specification, materials, price, suitability and finish of these.
2.
Graphical Communication - The ability to
communicate with others using a variety of graphical methods from initial
freehand sketches through to detailed Technical/working drawings. The
ability to read Technical Drawings is an essential skill and exercises are
included which develop this.
3.
Practical Skills - The
safe use of hand tools, machines and workshop facilities in order to produce
a well finished, useful, article using a variety of materials and
processes. These skills form a good basis for more individual practical
work.
The Content of Technical Course
1 . Design
Design
factors such as specification, resources, suitability, planning and
evaluation are considered in relation to craftwork projects. Techniques
such as Idea Development, Mind Mapping and Lateral Thinking are used to
develop a sound basis for further design exercises.
2.
Graphical Communication
Sketching/colouring techniques, e.g. perspective
drawing, freehand sketching, shape building, working drawings, use of
colour to develop skills necessary to convey information
and realise ideas. Use is also made of computer
aided drawing software to further enhance graphic skills.
3.
Craftwork
The
Craftwork involves the pupil working with wood, metal and plastics to make
artefacts which they take home upon completion. Pupils
are encouraged to ensure that their work is well planned and finished to a
high standard.
Assessment
Pupils
ability in each of the subject skills is assessed using the following
methods:
1. Teachers assessment of pupils course work (grades
1-6) at the end of each unit.
2. Pupil self evaluation (grades 1 - 6) at the end of
each unit.
3. Written class test - lasting approximately 20
minutes at the end of each unit.
4. Home assignments - given regularly throughout
session and parents are invited to comment on the quality of work produced
by their child. |
