← Design and Technology syllabus

SingaporeDesign and Technology

Tools, Processes and Fabrication

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 right tool to cut and shape a material safely and accurately?

Select and use appropriate tools and processes to cut and shape woods, metals and plastics safely
A practical answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on cutting and shaping. Choosing saws, files, drills and abrasives for different materials, the difference between wasting and shaping, and safe workshop practice.
8 min answer →

Why is finishing a product more than just making it look nice?

Apply suitable finishes to woods, metals and plastics to protect the material and improve appearance
A practical answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on finishing. Finishes for wood, metal and plastic, why finishing both protects and improves appearance, the importance of surface preparation, and safe application.
7 min answer →

How do you join parts together, and how do you choose between a permanent and a temporary joint?

Select and use appropriate methods to join and assemble materials, choosing between permanent and temporary fixings
A practical answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on joining. Permanent and temporary joining methods for wood, metal and plastic, when to use each, and how the choice depends on strength and whether parts must come apart.
8 min answer →

Why does accurate marking out before cutting decide whether a product fits together?

Mark out and measure a workpiece accurately using tools such as a rule, try square, marking gauge and template
A practical answer to the N(A)-Level D&T outcome on marking out. The tools for measuring and marking, the order of working from a datum, and why accuracy here decides whether parts fit together.
7 min answer →