GCSE Design & Technology: Food Technology
Examination Board: AQA Specification: 2540
What will I learn?
The specification consists of four units of work to be completed over two years. Students wishing to gain the AS qualification will be able to complete two units of work. This is an exciting course providing extensive opportunities for practical activities combined with developing knowledge and understanding of the working characteristics of foods. It also provides excellent opportunities to develop and demonstrate a wide range of skills including:
- Communication skills
- Planning and organisation
- Analysing and decision making
- Developing commercial awareness
Entry requirements
Students who wish to study this subject will normally achieve A* - C grades at GCSE in a range of subjects. It is desirable to have undertaken Design and Technology Food at GCSE level and have attained a high grade.
How will I be assessed?
There are two units to complete for AS level. Unit 1 is based on Materials and Components which looks at a broad range of ingredients and components showing an understanding of the methods in which ingredients and components can be manipulated to make products. Also looks at and develops an understanding of health and safety issues relevant to working with food as well as covering aspects of nutrition. This is examined as a 2 hour written paper in the June of Year 12.
Unit 2: is a portfolio presented as a written folder which provides the opportunity to design and make a food product for a specific purpose. This accounts for 50 hours of supervised work.
A2 Year 13 Unit 3 is a 2 hour written paper which is based on Food Science and Nutrition, Design and Market Influences as well as the Processes and Manufacturing of Foods.
Unit 4 is a piece of coursework accounting for 25% of the total A level mark and accounts for 60 hours supervised time this involves a substantial designing and making activity.
Future Opportunities
An A level in Food Technology can lead to a variety of careers within the food industry. There a number of Universities offering courses in Consumerism, Leisure and Tourism as well as Food Technology. There is a growing demand for Food Technologists e.g. Product Design, Retailing, Marketing, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing and Engineering.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Food Technology provides a complimentary subject to Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Art and Design at AS or A level or Health and Social Care. Or as a contrasting subject with English, History, Geography and Modern Languages. It provides an opportunity to combine practical and theoretical aspects of the subject.
