Design technology

Have you got your design technology IA deadline approaching soon and are unsure what to choose as your topic? Do not worry, this post is here to help you through that process! In this text, we will provide you with numerous IA ideas with examples to help you start the writing process. Our goal is to guide you in meeting the IB criteria and ensure you stay on track throughout your IA writing process. No matter what aspect of design technology you are interested in, the suggestions below are sure to have something that suits your needs!&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Design Technology IA Ideas</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;<ol><li><a href="/ia/design-technology/64af3d3db38ec100134addb6" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Comprehensive art station:</a> In this topic, you could design a comprehensive art station that artists can use to organize their workspace and tools such as paintbrushes, as well as tackle ergonomic issues like back and neck pain faced by artists when conducting their work.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/design-technology/64b5006e3770b40012858068" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Multifunctional products:</a> Within this topic, you could design a multifunctional product such as multifunctional furniture (2-in-1 chair and table) to address the issue of lack of space in living rooms, and make home organization more efficient.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/design-technology/64a9f318f66fe20013841ce7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Backpack design:</a> Looking at this topic, you could create an ergonomic backpack that alleviates issues like back pain and unequal distribution of weight, as well as allows for optimal organization of items inside the backpack. The backpack should also be made of a suitable material that can withstand dirt from daily use.&nbsp;</li></ol>&nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre>&nbsp;<ol start="4"><li><a href="/ia/design-technology/64ac74d6b2d6120012fbad5c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bread cutter machine:</a> Through this topic, you could design a bread cutter machine that improves the efficiency of the food-making process of a business., especially one that produces sandwiches or wraps.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/design-technology/62d54fdcefe3ca0013f9a78e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Motor skills:</a> In this exploration, you could create products that help children, especially those with disabilities, to improve their gross and fine motor skills. The products should be lightweight and easy to use.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/design-technology/6178ef08610b200013238314" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Monitoring expired products:</a> Looking at this topic, you could design a product that could help users prevent food wastage by monitoring the expiry dates of items bought and stocked in their pantries at home. This should give users an indication of what products need to be used up first.&nbsp;</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp;For more IA ideas and a deeper insight into how to structure your IAs, head to the <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a> website where you will be able to find numerous <a href="/ia/design-technology" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">design technology</a> IA topics as well as exemplar IAs that you can refer to during your writing process!

thumbnail_Header Banner for Blog (14).png

Header Banner for Blog (14).png

A comprehensive list of 6 design technology IA internal assessment topic ideas along with explanations and examples. See what can be done and use this as inspiration for your own topic. 

Design Technology IA Topic Ideas + Examples

Paper 2 is the second exam for IB Design Technology that you will face. In this post, we’ll provide a thorough breakdown of the paper, ensuring you are familiarised with the structure of the exam and know what type of questions to expect.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">IB Design Technology Paper 2</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>For SL, accounts for 30% of the student's subject grade while at HL it accounts for 20%.</li><li>Both SL and HL students sit the same exact paper.</li><li>Both SL and HL students have 1 hour 30 minutes to complete Paper 2.</li><li>Students can score up to 50 marks.</li><li>Paper 2 is made up of data-based, short-answer, and extended-response questions on the core material.&nbsp;</li><li>Paper 2 is made up of two sections – Section A and Section B.&nbsp;</li><li>In Section A, students answer all questions.</li><li>In Section B, students answer one question.</li><li>A calculator is required for this paper.</li></ul>&nbsp;&nbsp;A typical Section A question may look the following way:&nbsp;Many high-tech engineering companies are turning to 3D printing to manufacture components for applications that are subject to high stress and high temperature environments. General Electric (GE) are already using additive manufacturing techniques to produce fuel nozzles in the combustion system of their Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion (LEAP) jet engine range, that could not be made any other way. GE researchers recently completed a fully 3D printed, working mini jet engine prototype as a proof of concept, see Figure 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;The team used Direct Metal Laser Melting (DMLM), which uses lasers to fuse thin layers of metal powder on top of each other to form the parts. The technique allowed for more complex and efficient parts with less material waste.&nbsp;&nbsp;Turbines, such as in Figure 5, are required to work in very hostile environments. Most turbines are made from super alloys.&nbsp;(a) Outline why a super alloy is used to produce a turbine such as the one shown in Figure 5. [2]&nbsp;(b) Outline two advantages of using 3D printing to create the turbine blade shown in Figure 5. [2]&nbsp;&nbsp;A typical Section B question may look the following way:&nbsp;The Volkswagen (VW) Beetle is considered a design classic. In the 1999 car of the century competition it came fourth (after the Ford Model T, Mini and Citroen DS). Since the production of the first car in 1941 the car has changed very little in appearance, see Figure 10. Initially the bodywork was made of steel, but more recently this has changed to a range of materials such as alloys, composites and plastics.&nbsp;Other materials that make up the VW Beetle have also changed. For example, the windscreen (windshield) is made of laminated glass whereas it was originally made of toughened glass.&nbsp;&nbsp;One way that a product may be considered as a design classic is by the length of the maturity phase in the product life cycle.&nbsp;(a) List two disadvantages of using steel for the body of cars. [2]&nbsp;(b) Explain why the Volkswagen (VW) Beetle uses laminated glass for its windscreen. [2]&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Explain two ways that Volkswagen (VW) can extend the maturity phase of the product life cycle. [6]&nbsp;(d) Explain how mass production, dominant design and cultural status have made the VW Beetle a classic design. [9]&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>How to succeed in Paper 2?</h3>&nbsp;To succeed in IB Design Technology Paper 2, it is crucial to understand both the structure of the exam and the scope of its content. It is important to remember that Paper 2 only tests the core content of the syllabus. This includes the six core topics: Human factors and ergonomics, Resource management and sustainable production, Modelling, Final production, Innovation and Design, and Classic Design. Higher Level students are not required to study HL-specific topics for this paper, so focusing exclusively on mastering the core material is the most efficient way to prepare.&nbsp;&nbsp;As exemplified with the sample questions provided above, this paper typically consists of structured questions based on case studies and data, designed to assess your ability to apply theoretical concepts to practical real-life scenarios. Hence, it is not enough to simply memorise definitions. You must also be able to analyse, explain, and evaluate design principles in context. As such, practise reading and interpreting case studies, identifying key issues and applying the most relevant core concepts. Use past papers and mark schemes to familiarise yourself with common question styles and the expectations of examiners.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is also important you are able to support your answers with real-world examples. Refer to well-known products, systems, or innovations that illustrate your points clearly.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful! For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify </a>and other guides available on our <a href="/blog" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blog</a>.&nbsp;

thumbnail_Header Banner for Blog (17).png

Header Banner for Blog (17).png

A comprehensive guide to IB Design Technology Paper 2. Learn about Paper 2 structure, duration, weighing, and the questions you may encounter. 

IB Design Technology Paper 2

If you're an HL student, Paper 3 is the last exam you'll face in your IB Design Technology assessments. In this post, we’ll provide a thorough breakdown of the paper, ensuring you are familiarised with the structure of the exam and know what type of questions to expect.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">IB Design Technology Paper 3</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>Paper 3 is an HL-only paper.</li><li>Paper 3 accounts for 20% of your final grade.&nbsp;</li><li>Students have 1 hour 30 minutes to complete Paper 3.</li><li>Students can score up to 40 marks.</li><li>Paper 3 is made up of structured questions on HL extension material.</li><li>Students answer all questions.</li><li>Paper 3 is made up of two sections.</li><li>Section A focuses is made up of shorter questions.&nbsp;</li><li>Section B is an unseen case study question. &nbsp;</li><li>A calculator is required for this paper.</li></ul>&nbsp;&nbsp;A typical Section A question may look the following way:&nbsp;The authorities in Qinhuangdao, China are prototyping the Transit Elevated Bus (TEB). The TEB runs on rails and has 2.1 m of clearance over the road below. This allows the cars to share the road as shown in Figure 1.&nbsp;The TEB can use the existing roads and transport 1400 passengers at up to 60km/h.&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) List two ways in which the Chinese user population influenced the TEB design concept. [2]&nbsp;(b) Outline the importance of a multidisciplinary design team for the TEB. [2]&nbsp;(c) Outline the role an ethnographer may play in the design team for the TEB. [2]&nbsp;(d) Explain one benefit of enhanced usability of the TEB and how it would contribute to its success. [4]&nbsp;&nbsp;A typical Section B question may look the following way:&nbsp;The Vozz Helmet, see Figure 3, is a revolutionary motorcycle helmet with a hinged shell and no chin strap. It is marketed as a high-quality, comfortable and practical helmet.&nbsp;The Vozz Helmet has a hinge at the top which allows the user to put it on while wearing glasses or with your gloves on. There are clips on each side of the chin piece and these can be clicked together. This removes the need for a chin strap.&nbsp;&nbsp;The main reason why the Vozz Helmet has been designed in this way is to make it easier and safer to remove the helmet from the wearer in the event of an accident. Figure 4 shows the special release system. The helmet also has a Vozz logo that the paramedic can scan enabling them to get instructions over their phone on removal procedures.&nbsp;Once the paramedics have been able to operate the special release system they can remove the helmet by detaching the front part as shown in Figure 5.&nbsp;(a) Outline why frequent contact with potential users is essential by the design team for the development of the Vozz Helmet. [2]&nbsp;(b) List two promotion strategies that could be used to market the Vozz Helmet to motor cycle riders. [2]&nbsp;(c) List two reasons why interviews would have been utilized as a user research strategy in the development of the Vozz Helmet. [2]&nbsp;(d) The Vozz Helmet has gained acceptance for use in motorcycling and Vozz intends to extend its product range. Explain how the Vozz Helmet could be developed as a product family. [5]&nbsp;(e) Explain the importance of quality management through quality control (QC), statistical process control (SPC) and quality assurance (QA) to ensure that the Vozz Helmet is produced to predetermined quality standards. [9]&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>How to succeed in Paper 2?</h3>&nbsp;To succeed in IB Design Technology Paper 3, it is essential to understand that this paper is exclusively for Higher Level students and hence focuses solely on the HL topics. These include User-Centred Design (UCD), Sustainability, Innovation and Markets, and Commercial Production. Mastering these four areas is key, as Paper 3 does not test the core topics (although, of course, a foundation in the core is helpful). &nbsp;&nbsp;Paper 3 consists of two main parts: structured questions and an unseen case study. The structured questions target specific HL concepts. The second section – the case study – presents a new and unfamiliar scenario where you are expected to analyse the situation and apply your HL knowledge to offer well-reasoned responses. Success in this section depends heavily on your ability to think critically and apply concepts in real-time, not just recall information. You should also develop the ability to bring in relevant, real-world examples to support your arguments.&nbsp;To prepare effectively, practising past Paper 3 questions is crucial. This will help you become familiar with the style of both structured and case study-based questions. Make a habit of reviewing mark schemes alongside your practice to understand how to frame answers clearly and logically.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful! For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify </a>and other guides available on our <a href="/blog" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blog</a>.&nbsp;

thumbnail_Header Banner for Blog (19).png

Header Banner for Blog (19).png

A comprehensive guide to IB Design Technology Paper 3. Learn about Paper 3 structure, duration, weighing, and the questions you may encounter. 

IB Design Technology Paper 3

Paper 1 is the first examination you'll encounter in your IB Design Technology assessments. In this post, we will provide a thorough breakdown of IB Design Technology Paper 1, exploring the questions you may encounter and offering valuable tips on how to tackle them effectively.<h2 style="text-align:center;">&nbsp;</h2><h2 style="text-align:center;">IB Design Technology Paper 1</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Paper 1 accounts for 30% at SL and 20% at HL.</li><li>SL students have 45 minutes while HL students have 1 hour to complete the assessment.</li><li>Paper 1 is solely made up of multiple choice questions on the core material (and HL extension).</li><li>Each question is worth 1 mark.</li><li>SL students answer 30 questions, while HL students answer 40.&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;&nbsp;Typical SL questions may look the following way:&nbsp;Which of the following percentile data is most likely to be used for the adjustable seats in an automobile?&nbsp;&nbsp;A. 50th&nbsp;B. 75th&nbsp;C. 5th–95th&nbsp;D. 1st–99th&nbsp;Figure 2 shows LG’s newest front-loading washing machine that uses 25 litres less water than previous models. Which process requires the least energy?&nbsp;A. Recycling&nbsp;B. Repairing&nbsp;C. Reconditioning&nbsp;D. Re-engineering&nbsp;Questions 27–30 relate to the following case study. Please read the case study carefully and answer the questions. The SafariSeat is an all-terrain wheelchair design that can be manufactured using standard bicycle parts that are easily locally sourced in low-resource regions of the world, see Figure 14.&nbsp;Designer and co-founder, Janna Deeble grew up in Kenya and recognized the need for affordable, repairable wheelchairs. The design team employed a user-centred design (UCD) process and local, community-based manufacturers to make prototypes during the SafariSeat’s development process, see Figure 15. Creating employment in the local community is also one of SafariSeat’s aims.&nbsp;Using standard bicycle parts, the SafariSeat adapts hand pedals and sprockets for efficient driving, suspension for stability on uneven terrain, and the wheel and frame configuration can be customized dependent on the users’ needs and the bicycle parts available, see Figure 16.&nbsp;Over 90 % of people living in low-resource regions of the world who need a wheelchair cannot access one, and the SafariSeat aims to fill this gap.&nbsp;&nbsp;Which waste mitigation strategy is the SafariSeat utilizing?&nbsp;&nbsp;A. Dematerialization&nbsp;B. Recycle&nbsp;C. Recondition&nbsp;D. Re-engineering&nbsp;&nbsp;Typical HL questions may look the following way:&nbsp;When considering the furniture for an open-plan office, which aspect of ergonomics would be most important?&nbsp;&nbsp;A. Adjustability&nbsp;B. Range of sizes&nbsp;C. Reach&nbsp;D. Clearance&nbsp;Figure 15 shows trash bags which are made from plant starch and are completely compostable and biodegradable. Which of Datschefski’s five principles of sustainable design do the compostable trash bags, shown in Figure 15, best fulfil?&nbsp;&nbsp;A. Safe&nbsp;B. Solar&nbsp;C. CyclicD. Social&nbsp;Questions 36 – 40 relate to the following case study. Please read the case study carefully and answer the questions. The Life Saving Dot &nbsp;is similar to a bindi. It is a self-adhesive dot containing iodine, see Figure 17. The Life Saving Dot is a patch used to transfer iodine through the skin. Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) is the leading cause of preventable brain damage worldwide. In rural India, IDD is caused by a lack of iodine in the soil which prevents it from entering people’s diets. IDD particularly impacts women and can cause headaches, pregnancy complications, and breast cancer. The Life Saving Dot is a solution to this need. Developed by the charitable foundation of advertising firm Grey Group Singapore, the Life Saving Dot provides the wearer with 150 to 200 micrograms of iodine when worn for at least four hours, see Figure 18.&nbsp;The Life Saving Dot was developed to be a low-tech solution that can be distributed efficiently to rural and disadvantaged Indian communities. By using the bindi, Grey Group hopes it is easier for users to adapt to this product, as the user does not need to change their normal behaviour. The Life Saving Dot comes in a variety of colours. The packaging and subsequent advertising campaign are designed to educate people about the issue and impacts of IDD, see Figure 19.&nbsp;The skin patch consists of a layer of polymer, a matrix holding the drug, and a skin-safe adhesive, see Figure 20.&nbsp;Patches like The Life Saving Dot need to be made from a material that is water resistant and durable enough to be easily applied and removed from the skin.&nbsp;The graphical model in Figure 20 is an example of...&nbsp;&nbsp;A. A 3D graphical model&nbsp;B. A perspective drawing&nbsp;C. An assembly drawing&nbsp;D. A conceptual model&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>How to succeed in Design Technology Paper 1?</h3>&nbsp;This paper is a multiple-choice question paper, requiring students to have a broad knowledge of the core material (and the HL extension). Since each question typically tests a specific concept, process, or material property, students must be familiar with the content covered throughout the course. Strong foundational knowledge enables students to eliminate incorrect options quickly and choose the best answer.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of the biggest challenges students face in Paper 1 is managing their time effectively. With a large number of questions to answer in a relatively short period, it is easy to fall behind. To overcome this, students should regularly practice with past papers under timed conditions. This not only improves speed but also builds familiarity with the question types, which are more or less consistent over the years.&nbsp;Additionally, Paper 1 includes case study questions that require students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. These questions test the ability to analyze unfamiliar situations on the spot and identify how different design concepts from the syllabus are utilized in practice. To prepare for these, students should practice interpreting case studies and making connections between the theory they have learned and its application in various contexts.&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a>.&nbsp;

thumbnail_Header Banner for Blog (30).png

Header Banner for Blog (30).png

A comprehensive guide to IB Design Technology Paper 1. Learn about Paper 1 structure, duration, questions, weighting, as well as tips on how to answer. 

IB Design Technology Paper 1

Design Technology explores the principles of design, innovation, and product development. Students engage in the design process, from initial concept to final product, developing creative problem-solving skills and an understanding of sustainable design practices.

IB Design technology

Coursework Exemplars

IA/EE Review

Notes

Grade Boundaries

1,728 students

3.9 average grade

Difficulty

Grade distribution

Helpful Blog Posts

IB Design Technology Paper 1

Design Technology IA Topic Ideas + Examples

IB Design Technology Paper 2

IB Design Technology Paper 3

IB Design Technology Paper 1

Design Technology IA Topic Ideas + Examples

IB Design Technology Paper 2

IB Design Technology Paper 3

IB Design Technology Paper 1

1,728 students

3.9 average grade

Difficulty

Grade distribution