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Summaries · Grade 4 Natural Sciences › The design process
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The design process

The steps of the design process, from the problem to a tested solution. Read one part at a time and tap “I know this”. Then test yourself in the quiz.

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The steps

Understandthe problemInvestigateDesign anddrawMakeEvaluate andimproveCommunicate
Designers work step by step, and go back when something does not work.
WordMeaning
Design briefWhat must be made, and for whom?
SpecificationA requirement: “it must carry one kilogram”
ConstraintA limit: “you may only use paper”
UsersThe people who will use the product
The meerkat designs a bird feeder.
The meerkat designs a bird feeder.
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Draw, make and test

Designers first draw their ideas, to compare them before building. They also look at things others have made, for ideas. Then they make a model and test it, because problems are cheap to fix early.

  • The bridge breaks in the middle? Strengthen the middle and test again.
  • Too heavy? Choose a lighter material. Too expensive? Find a cheaper one that works.
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Evaluate

Evaluate means checking whether the design solved the problem. Test with real users: they spot problems you missed. Think about safety, the user’s age, and the environment: a sustainable design does little harm.

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Remember this and test yourself

Remember this: your summary
  • The design process solves a real problem.
  • Steps: understand the problem, investigate, design, make, evaluate, communicate.
  • A design brief says what is needed and for whom; constraints are limits like time, money and materials.
  • A model is a small version to test an idea.
  • Test, see what breaks, improve and test again; keep a record of every test.

Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.

Memory trick

Understand, Investigate, Design, Make, Evaluate, Communicate: “Unicorns In Dresses Make Excellent Cupcakes.”

Flash cards · Tap to turn over

Important words

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Test yourself · Part 2

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