Practice C. Design in context with authentic IB Design Technology (First Exam 2027) exam questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank mirrors Paper 1, 2, 3 structure, covering key topics like materials and processes, product design, and sustainability. Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build exam confidence with questions in the style of IB examiners.
Paper
Level
Question 1
SL & HLPaper 1
Reverse engineering helps establish:
Question 2
SL & HLPaper 1
What circular strategy is illustrated by the image of a smartphone take-back recycling kiosk?
Question 3
HLPaper 1
A game interface that rewards frequent play with custom visuals enhances which pleasure?
Question 4
HLPaper 1
What interaction stage of the ACT model does this image best illustrate?
Question 5
HLPaper 2
A global electronics company is redesigning its product packaging and logistics system to reduce environmental impact across its product life cycle. Designers are using LCA to make data-informed decisions.
1.[1]
Figure 1 shows a delivery truck being loaded with cardboard shipping boxes.
i.) Identify the life-cycle stage represented in Figure 1.
2.[2]
ii.) Outline two reasons why transport contributes significantly to a product's environmental footprint.
3.[3]
Figure 2 shows people throwing an old electric items into a household waste bin.
i.) Describe three environmental consequences of disposing of electronic products in general waste.
4.[4]
ii.) Compare landfill disposal with e-waste recycling for electronic appliances.
5.[2]
Figure 3 shows a bar chart comparing CO2 for plastic, glass, and aluminum packaging from raw material extraction to disposal.
i.) Explain two ways designers could use the data in Figure 3 to make more sustainable decisions.
6.[1]
ii.) Evaluate the usefulness and limitations of life-cycle analysis when comparing different packaging materials.
Question 6
HLPaper 2
A product development team is analysing the environmental footprint of food containers to improve packaging choices for an upcoming eco-conscious brand launch. Their focus is on raw material sourcing, energy use, and end-of-life impact.
1.[1]
Figure 1 shows a stack of raw aluminum sheets ready for industrial use.
i.) Identify the life-cycle stage shown in Figure 1.
2.[2]
ii.) Outline two environmental impacts of aluminum extraction.
3.[3]
Figure 2 shows a compostable paper-based food container next to a traditional plastic container.
i.) Describe three factors a designer would consider when selecting between paper and plastic containers in terms of environmental impact.
4.[4]
Compare the end-of-life (disposal) stage for paper and plastic containers.
5.[4]
Figure 3 shows a warehouse storing large quantities of packaged food containers before being shipped to retailers.
i.) Explain how storage and warehousing affect the life-cycle environmental footprint of a product.
6.[6]
ii.) Evaluate how life-cycle analysis helps a designer choose between two packaging options based on sustainability.
Question 7
HLPaper 2
1.[2]
Name the three core strategies of Design for Manufacture (DfM).
Question 8
SL & HLPaper 1
Understanding a product better allows designers to:
Question 9
SL & HLPaper 1
Reverse engineering can help determine:
Question 10
SL & HLPaper 2
A team of designers is tasked with reimagining a public park information kiosk that will serve tourists, local residents, elderly users, and people with various disabilities. The park authority wants the kiosk to support a high volume of users from diverse backgrounds and abilities, while maintaining simplicity and elegance in the design. They are analying the following features.
1.[2]
The screen features bright, clearly labelled icons with a black background.
(Fig 1)
Outline two reasons why Figure 1’s design improves accessibility for elderly users.
2.[1]
Physical control panel with a rotary dial, Braille labels, and audio jack for headphones
Identify one feature in Figure 2 that supports users with visual impairments.
3.[4]
Compare the strategies used in Figure 1 and Figure 2 to support users with different impairments.
4.[3]
Users can press a button to lower and tilt the screen to their preferred height.
Explain how Figure 3 demonstrates inclusive design principles.
5.[6]
Discuss how designing for extremes has been applied across all three figures in this kiosk system.