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SingaporeDesign and Technology

Materials and Their Properties

5 dot points across 5 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What do material properties such as strength, hardness, toughness and elasticity actually mean, and how do they guide a designer's choices?

Define and distinguish mechanical and physical properties of materials, including strength, hardness, toughness, ductility, elasticity and durability, and relate them to design choices
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on material properties. Strength, hardness, toughness, ductility, malleability, elasticity, density and durability, and how each guides choices.
8 min answer →

How are metals classified, and how do ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals and alloys differ in properties and use?

Classify metals as ferrous, non-ferrous and alloys, describe their properties and uses, and explain why alloys are made
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on metals. Ferrous and non-ferrous metals, alloys such as steel and brass, their properties and uses, and why alloys are made.
8 min answer →

What is the difference between thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, and why does it matter for design and recycling?

Classify plastics as thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, describe their properties, uses and recyclability, and select a plastic for a given application
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on plastics. Thermoplastics versus thermosetting plastics, common examples, properties, recyclability, and choosing the right plastic.
8 min answer →

How does a designer choose the right material by weighing properties, cost, manufacture and environmental impact together?

Select appropriate materials for a product by balancing functional properties, aesthetics, cost, ease of manufacture and environmental impact, justifying each choice
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on material selection. Balancing properties, cost, aesthetics, manufacture and environmental impact, and justifying a material choice.
7 min answer →

How do hardwoods, softwoods and manufactured boards differ, and how does a designer choose between them?

Classify woods as hardwoods, softwoods and manufactured boards, describe their properties and uses, and select a wood for a given application
A focused answer to the O-Level Design and Technology outcome on woods. Hardwoods, softwoods and manufactured boards (plywood, MDF, chipboard), their properties, and choosing the right wood.
8 min answer →