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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can test my design solutions throughout my iterative journey.

      Key learning points

      1. Testing is carried out throughout the iterative design journey.
      2. Prototype testing can be used to inform evaluations and modifications.
      3. There are a variety of methods to test prototypes.
      4. Whilst testing, design decisions or modifications may be identified.

      Keywords

      • Design requirements - something which is needed or wanted to make a product successful

      • Design decisions - a deliberate choice to meet a requirement or solve a problem

      • Testing - measuring against design requirements

      • Modifications - making changes or adjustments to improve

      • Manufacturing specification - outlines the materials, dimensions, and processes required to produce a product accurately and consistently

      Common misconception

      Testing only happens when the final prototype has been made.

      Testing should happen throughout the iterative journey, so that design decisions are made to meet design requirements and produce a successful design solution.

      Teacher tip

      Remind students about successful testing throughout their iterative design journey. Testing should be relevant to the design requirements for the design solution.

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - equipment

      Risk assessment required - outdoor learning

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Why is it important to document safety procedures during manufacturing?

      to slow down the process
      to increase the price of the product
      Correct answer: to demonstrate legal and professional standards
      to decorate the page

      Q2.
      Match the type of evidence to what it demonstrates.

      Correct Answer:risk assessment checklist,shows safety planning

      shows safety planning

      Correct Answer:photo of drilling stage,documents the process

      documents the process

      Correct Answer:annotated materials list,justifies material choices

      justifies material choices

      Correct Answer:final product evaluation,reflects on quality and outcome

      reflects on quality and outcome

      Q3.
      Order the points where evidence should be gathered.

      1 - pre-production safety checks and material decisions
      2 - production stage showing tools and processes
      3 - in-process quality checks
      4 - final evaluation and outcome review

      Q4.
      Written or visual proof that supports how a product was made is called ...

      Correct Answer: evidence

      Q5.
      What does documenting a design decision during manufacture show?

      that you changed your mind
      Correct answer: how a choice affected the product’s function or quality
      that you forgot to follow your plan
      that your idea was copied from someone else

      Q6.
      Which of the following is the most complete way to communicate evidence of manufacture?

      writing a brief sentence at the end
      creating a moodboard of inspiration
      Correct answer: combining notes, photos, checklists, and reflections
      sharing your idea verbally

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      A prototype is a testable model used to explore and develop ideas.

      to check colour preferences
      Correct answer: to measure performance against design requirements
      to start final production early
      to take a break from planning

      Q2.
      A is a change made after testing to improve the product.

      requirement
      specification
      evaluation
      Correct answer: modification

      Q3.
      Match the activity to its purpose.

      Correct Answer:testing against requirements,checks how well the prototype performs

      checks how well the prototype performs

      Correct Answer:modification,improves the design based on test results

      improves the design based on test results

      Correct Answer:evaluation,reflects on what worked and what didn’t

      reflects on what worked and what didn’t

      Correct Answer:design decision,a choice made to meet a specific requirement

      a choice made to meet a specific requirement

      Q4.
      Order the stages in an iterative design cycle.

      1 - Manufacture a prototype.
      2 - Test the prototype.
      3 - Evaluate results.
      4 - Make modifications.

      To help you plan your 11 design and technology lesson on: Testing, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...