In Semester 1 2021 I was selected for the Materials Technology elective. In the is project we had to design and then make an LED trophy. The first major stage was drawing an isometric design. This is different to a normal 3D drawing because the main point every angle is 180 degrees.

During this elective I developed many capabilities. One of the main ones I developed was problem solving. Problem solving is a key aspect in the modern day society. During this half year elective I greatly expanded my problem solving abilities. An example of this is when during the task we ran into many issues. One being how the wood cracked several times. Because of this we had to analyse the failed work pieces in order to improve the next attempt. And after 2 fails we managed to uncover the issue of wood grain and gum veins too finally achieving a polished work piece.

Another capability that I developed in was leader ship. Whilst this was mainly an individual task, I still ended up guiding and helping 2 other students. I gained knowledge of leadership though helping and guiding these 2 students.

The final capability that I developed was creativity. Creativity was very important throughout this task and whist we where given a set target to achieve (An LED trophy) but how it ended up looking was up to us. An example is that I chose to do rounded corners, this was both a practical and aesthetic advantage. Another way I showed and developed my creativity is with the image I chose. I chose a phoenix because it resembles new life and re-birth. This is because I gave a new life to the materials I used.

Whist not a capability, a skill that I greatly developed was both my skills in Adobe Illustrator and my skills in the woodwork machines.

Overall I really enjoyed the Materials Technology (D&T) elective. It was both rewarding and really helped me with my capabilities and skills.