CAPE Design and Technology Syllabus 2026
Every unit, module and topic in the CAPE Design and Technology syllabus, with what each objective expects you to know. Each topic links to a free study chapter, and you can practise with CAPE Design and Technology past papers and answer keys.
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Unit 1
Module 1: Introduction to Design
Design Fundamentals
- Key Design Terminologies
Define core design terms like Design, Design Thinking, Ergonomics, Aesthetics, Form, Function, USP, MVP, Health & Safety, Environmental Impact, User Experience, and Colour.
- Elements and Principles of Design
Apply foundational design elements (Line, Shape, Colour, Texture) and principles (Unity, Balance, Contrast, Rhythm) to creative works.
The Design Process
- Key Stages of the Design Process
Understand and apply the iterative stages of design, including research, solution development, prototyping, testing, and feedback.
- Design Brief and Research Planning
Create comprehensive design briefs, considering aesthetics, function, marketing, material selection, ethical factors, cost, and constraints.
Design Thinking and Innovation
- Design Process, Thinking, and Innovation
Explain the relationship among various design processes, design thinking approaches, and innovation, defining key concepts and methodologies.
Design in Context
- Factors Influencing Design and Technology
Discuss historical, cultural, social, technological, marketing, and legal factors that shape developments in Design and Technology industries.
- Value of Design and Misconceptions
Examine design's social, environmental, and economic value in various industries and address common design misconceptions.
Module 2: Design Approaches
Design Approaches
- Industry Design Approaches
This subtopic discusses the Human Centred Approach (Design Thinking) and the Scientific Approach (Engineering Design Process) used in major industries.
- Interpreting Client Needs
Explains how to empathise with users and ask the right questions in varied contexts using observation, interviews, and research.
- Defining the Problem
Details methods to outline client problems and needs, including setting objectives, budget, target audience, scope, and initial design requirements.
- Ideation and Creative Process
Explains the ideation phase, including brainstorming, mind mapping, and sketching, and its relationship to the overall creative process in design.
- Prototype Generation
Compares various approaches for generating prototypes, such as rapid models, gadgets, role-playing, and storyboards, for client engagement and feedback.
- Prototype Testing Benefits
Describes the benefits of testing prototypes to ensure safety, quality assurance, durability, efficiency, and functionality while soliciting feedback.
Module 3: Rapid Prototyping in Design
Rapid Prototyping Fundamentals
- Iteration in Prototyping
Evaluate the benefits and definition of iteration in refining designs and collecting data during the rapid prototyping process.
- Rapid Prototyping Process
Explain the sequential steps of prototyping, review, refine, and iterate within the rapid prototyping process for product or service development.
Design Sketching
- 2-D Sketching Tools
Learn to create 2-D sketches using design principles, appropriate techniques, and both manual and Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools.
- 3-D Sketching Tools
Master creating 3-D sketches by applying design principles, utilizing various techniques, and employing advanced CAD and CAM tools.
3-D Prototype Creation
- 3-D Prototyping Materials
Select and utilize appropriate indigenous, recyclable, smart, and biodegradable materials for 3-D prototype creation, applying design principles.
Prototype Testing and Refinement
Unit 2
Module 1: Design Technologies
Impact and Evolution of Design
- Impact of Design
Explain how design influences society, the environment, and the economy at regional and international levels.
- Technology and Design Evolution
Trace the historical evolution of design through technology and analyze current technological applications in design.
Creativity and Innovation
- Creativity and Innovation in Design
Define creativity and innovation, identify factors influencing them, and analyze types and examples of innovative designs.
Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing
- Uses of CAD and CAM
Describe the functionalities of CAD and CAM tools for data management, image manipulation, and design model production.
- CAD and CAM Advantages and Disadvantages
Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of CAD/CAM tools, considering efficiency, cost, accessibility, and quality control.