← Design Studies syllabus

SingaporeDesign Studies

Materials and Techniques

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

What digital tools do designers use, and why does the difference between raster and vector matter?

Describe common digital design tools and the difference between raster and vector graphics, and choose the right tool and format for a task
A focused answer on digital design tools for O-Level Design Studies. Raster versus vector graphics, resolution and scalability, common software types, file formats, and choosing the right tool and format for a task.
8 min answer →

What materials do designers use to build models and prototypes, and how do you choose between them?

Describe materials and techniques used for model-making and prototyping, and select suitable materials for a model at a given stage
A focused answer on model-making for O-Level Design Studies. Paper, card, foam, clay and found materials, the difference between sketch models and presentation models, and choosing materials for the stage of a project.
8 min answer →

How is printed design actually produced, and how do paper choices and print finishes change the result?

Describe paper types and common print and finishing techniques, and select appropriate paper and finishes for a printed design
A focused answer on paper and print for O-Level Design Studies. Paper weight and finish, the CMYK and RGB colour models, printing methods, and finishes such as embossing, foiling and lamination.
8 min answer →

How do designers choose the right material for a design by understanding what each material is like?

Describe the properties of common materials - paper, card, plastics, wood, metal, glass and textiles - and select materials suited to a design's purpose
A focused answer on material properties for O-Level Design Studies. Paper, card, plastics, wood, metal, glass and textiles, their physical and aesthetic properties, and choosing materials to suit a design's purpose.
8 min answer →

How do surface finishes change the way a design looks, feels, performs and lasts?

Describe common surface finishes and treatments and explain how they affect the appearance, feel, function and durability of a design
A focused answer on surface finishes for O-Level Design Studies. Matte and gloss, paint and coatings, texture treatments, protective and functional finishes, and how finish affects appearance, feel, function and durability.
8 min answer →