Link aspects together — e.g. material choice affects manufacturing method which affects cost.
Make reasoned recommendations and justify them.
Use specific examples and technical terminology.
Consider both advantages and disadvantages — one-sided answers rarely reach Level 4.
Exam questions — 3 questions · 9 marks · real AQA 8552 past papers
Extended questions included — read the hint. AI marks against the AQA 8552 mark scheme.
12 marks12-mark: sustainable packaging designAQA 8552 style — Section C
A supermarket wants to redesign its ready-meal packaging to be more sustainable while still protecting the food, looking attractive on shelf, and being cost effective to manufacture. Evaluate the design considerations. You may use notes and sketches. (12 marks — allow 15–20 minutes)
Hint: For Level 4: cover materials (with trade-offs), function/food safety, manufacturing (process suitability, tooling cost), aesthetics (printing, window), ergonomics (opening), sustainability (full LCA), cost. Link aspects. Make a recommendation. Annotated sketches showing your design ideas can earn marks alongside text.
+120 XP
8 marks8-mark: one-off vs batch production for leather walletsAQA 8552 Jun 2023 Q20 style
A manufacturer is deciding between one-off and batch production for a handmade leather wallet. Each customer chooses their own colour and initials. Evaluate both methods and recommend the most suitable. (8 marks)
Hint: For 8 marks: both methods covered in detail, WHY each does/does not suit this specific product, a clear recommendation with strong justification. Use the product characteristics to drive the argument.