ENGINEERING GRAPHICS AND DESIGN: Grades 8 to 12

GRDS (Engineering Graphics and Design) is a subject which was previously known as “Technical Drawing”. It has however changed a little over the past few years with the introduction of minor changes in areas of study and application.

The application within this subject has made it far more desirable to those learners who intend entering any sort of Engineering field, Architecture, Graphic design and Draughting. It will prove an invaluable asset to those who study further, either at University or any other Tertiary Institution. In fact, at certain institutions it can allow for the student to gain that credit immediately. It is also one of those subjects that will always be useful to anyone planning on starting their own company, especially within the building or designing field.

The subject falls into two main categories: Mechanical and Civil.

“Mechanical” introduces learners to the assembling of mechanical components, the uses and application of these parts as well as the finer points of drawing these accurately. A certain element of design is also introduced at every grade.

The “Civil” component centres on basic building rules and standards of construction. Learners will be taught to draw plans, right up to a Site Plan, with all details being accurate. Again an element of design is expected.

In each grade the learners are expected to submit a PAT (Practical Assessment Task) which will contribute towards 25% of their year mark. At the Grade 12 level this assignment is externally moderated and the results are submitted to the Department of Education.

At Pinetown Boys’ High School we are fortunate to be able to introduce this subject as “Technical Drawing” from Grade 8. This forms part of their Technology Results. It gives our learners an added advantage as they have already been introduced to the basics if they select this subject in Grade 10.

This is a practical subject with a vast use of applications and is often one that gives many students a tremendous sense of achievement and self satisfaction.