Practical Project and Evaluation
Planning and making
Candidates should plan a project with a clear brief, specification, materials list, cutting list, sequence of operations and risk assessment. Understand the importance of a production plan and quality control checks at each stage, and how to record decisions and modifications as the project develops.
Testing and evaluation
Know how to evaluate against the original specification using measurable criteria - strength tests, fit checks, user trials, tolerance measurements. Understand the difference between testing (gathering data on performance) and evaluation (judging whether the outcome meets the brief and specification). Learn to identify strengths, weaknesses and specific improvements, and to suggest modifications with reasons.
Recording evidence
Know what evidence a portfolio should contain: research, specification, ideas, development, plans, risk assessments, photographs of making, test results and a final evaluation. Understand that evaluation should reference the specification point by point rather than give general opinions.
Common traps
Questions often reward evaluation that is specific and evidence-based over vague praise. Another trap is forgetting to evaluate against the original brief, or omitting suggested improvements. Watch for the distinction between testing and evaluation.
Worked rule of thumb
Use the P-I-E structure for each evaluation point: Point (what was judged), Impact (evidence or measurement), Enhancement (specific improvement). Example: the joint failed at 40 kg (point/impact); increase glue area and add a dowel (enhancement).