Engineering Studies (ATAR)
Course Outline
In this course students are provided with opportunities to investigate, research and present
information through a design process, and then undertake project management to make
a functioning product. These activities provide students with opportunities to apply
engineering processes, understand underpinning scientific and mathematical principles,
develop engineering technology skills and to understand the interrelationships between
engineering projects and society.
In Semester 1 students study core engineering theory and the Mechatronics specialist
area theory. They develop an understanding of different forms of energy, uses of these
different forms, and sources of renewable and non‐renewable energy. Given guidelines
and a context, they apply their knowledge of the engineering design process and theory
to develop and respond to a design brief. This requires them to investigate existing
products, construction materials and components. Design ideas are developed through
annotated sketches and concept drawings. Students then select and analyse the most
suitable concept for production as a prototype or working model. Students finalise their
chosen design by documenting its specifications in the form of appropriate orthographic
drawings, specialist diagram and lists of materials and components. They calculate the cost
of the prototype or model. They follow a given timeline to undertake tasks required to
produce, test and evaluate the product.
In Semester 2 students develop an understanding of core and specialist area theory
to better understand the scientific, mathematical and technical concepts that explain
how engineered products function. They study the impact of the different forms of
obsolescence in engineering products on society, business and the environment.
They continue to refine their understanding and skills of the engineering design process,
undertaking tasks to produce, test and evaluate the product. Core and the Mechatronics
specialist area theory continues to be studied to forge a greater understanding of
scientific, mathematical and technical theory.
Assessment Profile
Every student will work on individual projects as well as parts of a major group project.
The different types of assessment will include Design (individual work on research and
presentation of ideas) 30%, production (planning and construction) 40% and Response
(test and examination) 30%
Desirable Qualifications
Students should have a genuine interest in engineering fields, an inquisitive and analytical
mind and be able to work collaboratively in teams to design, build, operate and test total
or part systems.
Formal Prerequisites
• Year 10 students should have attained a minimum of a B grade in Year 10
Mathematics, a B grade in Physics as well as a B grade in English.
• Students studying Engineering (ATAR) should also be considering studying Physics
(ATAR) and Mathematics Methods (ATAR) or higher.
Contact:
Mr Marco Tolomei
Head of Design & Technology Faculty
[email protected]
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