CDT

Mr R G McDermott. MEd, BEd

Why are Dyson vacuum cleaners made in different colours? How are tennis racquets and hockey sticks manufactured? Is it important to recycle materials? Three questions that could be answered through Craft, Design and Technology.

CDT at Morrison's Academy is a new venture with the department having been open for just four years. It continues to move through a period of exciting development and rejuvenation. The subject is studied by all Primary 6, Transitional, S1 & S2 pupils, with each pupil being offered a basic introduction to the subject. Projects covered could include:

• a wood-based project;    
• a plastics-based project;      
• a foam-based project;     
• basic graphics.

The aim throughout this period is to introduce all pupils to the area of Craft, Design & Technology. This is done by undertaking various basic projects in the media's mentioned to allow all pupils the opportunity to experience a wide range of workshop activities, covering different techniques, tools, equipment and materials.

It is envisaged that, by the end of this period, each pupil will have a basic knowledge which will then be added to in subsequent years if continuing the subject at a further level.

Whilst the projects undertaken appear to be very simple, it is vital that each pupil learns the correct method of how to undertake any aspect of the subject. Failure to do so could result in accident to pupil or damage to equipment.The knowledge gained during the first four years provides a foundation from which the subject can be studied to Intermediate 1 & 2. At this level, Practical Craft Skills (Wood based) is followed with pupils completing 3 internally assessed projects before spending the final five months of the course working on the construction of a clock. Project work is an important element of the activity in the department although the department does also make use of computers to aid design and research work.