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SingaporeDesign and Technology

Materials and Their Properties

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do you choose the best material for a product by matching properties to requirements?

Select an appropriate material for a product by matching its properties to the requirements of the specification, considering cost and availability
A practical answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on material selection. How to match a material's properties to the specification, weigh cost, availability and environment, and justify the final choice.
8 min answer →

What are the main types of metal, and how do their properties decide their uses?

Identify the main types of metal (ferrous, non-ferrous and alloys) and describe their properties and uses
A clear answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on metals. The difference between ferrous, non-ferrous metals and alloys, key properties such as strength and corrosion resistance, and how properties decide their uses.
8 min answer →

What are the main types of plastic, and how do their properties decide their uses?

Identify the main types of plastic (thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics) and describe their properties and uses
A clear answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on plastics. The difference between thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, key properties such as being light and waterproof, common examples, and how properties decide their uses.
8 min answer →

What are the main types of wood, and how do their properties decide what they are used for?

Identify the main types of wood (hardwoods, softwoods and manufactured boards) and describe their properties and uses
A clear answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on wood. The difference between hardwoods, softwoods and manufactured boards, their key properties such as strength and grain, and how properties decide their uses.
8 min answer →