Decoration can also have a function

A stripe might identify a model section while a folded brace supports it. Ask what each feature contributes to the brief, allowing for more than one role instead of dividing every choice into useful or merely pretty.

Identify a feature. Explain its role. Compare with criteria.

Describe the feature's contribution

A stripe can aid identification while a folded brace provides support.

Allow a feature to serve several roles when the evidence supports it. Appearance and function are not always separate categories.

Decorative choices can also serve functions.

What purpose does the feature serve? Use function labels.

Resources

• Doughnut Shop Paper Stand STEM — Use the lightweight display-stand brief to test fit and stability.

Further reading

• Australian Curriculum Version 9 — Technologies overview

Read next

• Peer feedback is more useful when the prototype has a question
• A useful design brief says who needs what
• Paper tabs: compare joins with equal material allowances

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