Year 9 Design & Technology

For the last term, our Year 9 Design & Technology class have been very busy on an inspiring journey of creativity and learning. Over the past semester, students delved into the realm of graphic design, mastering tools like concept sketching, cognitive organisers and software tools like Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator to revamp the packaging of the iconic ‘‘Thins’ chips.

The class was introduced to a hands-on exploration of design principles, understanding the significance of aesthetics, functionality, and consumer appeal in packaging, aiming to strike a balance between visual allure and practicality. Students were encouraged to think critically, considering aspects like typography, colour psychology, and brand identity. Through brainstorming sessions and collaborative critiques, they honed their ability to communicate ideas effectively and refine their designs.

To introduce the students to new software skills, they were given a challenge to use Adobe illustrator to recreate logos. Following this, a challenge was set for Adobe Photoshop where students had to merge two photos they had taken to create a new one. Each lesson brought on a new skill, and tutorial on how to use these softwares effectively for communication. 

The final product was students creating a range of redesign interpretations of the ‘Thins’ chips package. This project not only showcased students' creativity but also nurtured valuable skills in design software and critical thinking. The project extended to a photography task where students further showcased their skills in photo editing to create remarkable packaging designs that blend vibrant aesthetics with consumer research. 

It has been inspiring to watch Year 9 Design & Technology build their graphic design skills and exceed the challenges provided in each lesson. We hope you enjoy a snapshot of some of their creations!