Question 1: Imagine you are designing a new water bottle for school students. List three important features or specifications that the bottle should have to meet students' needs.

Answer: Features could include: a leak-proof lid, a capacity of at least 500ml, and a lightweight, durable material.

Question 2: Describe how the size and weight of a product can affect its usability for different users. Provide two examples related to a product of your choice.

Answer: A larger, heavier product may be difficult for children or elderly users to carry, reducing accessibility. For example, a heavy backpack can cause discomfort, while a lightweight phone is easier to use and carry.

Question 3: Identify three safety features that should be included in the design of a children's lunch box. Explain why each feature is important.

Answer: Features could include: rounded edges to prevent cuts, a secure latch to prevent spills, and non-toxic materials to ensure safety if chewed or bitten.

Question 4: Sketch a simple plan for a compact and easy-to-use pencil case. Label key features such as compartments, zippers, and any special openings.

Answer: A correct sketch should show a rectangular or rounded shape with compartments for pens, pencils, and erasers, a zipper along the top or side, and labels indicating each feature.

Question 5: Explain why it is important to specify the materials used in a product's design. Give two examples of materials and their typical uses.

Answer: Specifying materials ensures the product is safe, durable, and suitable for its purpose. For example, plastic is lightweight and waterproof, often used for water bottles, while wood is sturdy and aesthetically pleasing for furniture.

Question 6: Describe the difference between 'size' and 'shape' in product specifications. Why are both important?

Answer: Size refers to the dimensions of the product (length, width, height), while shape describes its form or outline. Both are important to ensure the product fits its intended space and is comfortable to use.

Question 7: List two environmental considerations that should be taken into account when designing a product. Explain their importance.

Answer: Considerations could include using recyclable materials to reduce waste, and designing for energy efficiency to lower environmental impact during production and use.

Question 8: Draw a concept sketch for a portable, foldable shopping bag. Include labels for its key features such as handles, folding mechanism, and material type.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a simple bag with handles, a fold or fold lines indicating portability, and labels pointing to the handles, fold lines, and material description (e.g., lightweight fabric).

Question 9: Explain how user feedback can influence the specifications of a product during the design process.

Answer: User feedback can reveal issues with comfort, usability, or safety, leading designers to modify features like size, shape, or materials to better meet user needs.

Question 10: Identify two factors that should be considered when setting the price for a new product. Why are these factors important?

Answer: Factors include production costs (to ensure profitability) and target market affordability (to ensure it is accessible to customers).

Question 11: Describe what a 'specification' is in product design and why it is a vital part of the design process.

Answer: A specification is a detailed description of the product's features, materials, and dimensions. It guides the manufacturing process and ensures the final product meets design intentions and user needs.