Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
5th Year Design and Communication Graphics.
Design and Communication Graphics (DCG) for 5th Year students focuses on developing cognitive and practical skills in graphic communication, problem-solving, and spatial manipulation. Students will explore 2D and 3D CAD, parametric modeling, and the core principles of plane and descriptive geometry in preparation for the Senior Cycle Leaving Certificate.
01Core Principles of Plane Geometry
An exploration of foundational 2D geometry, focusing on conic sections, transformations, and mechanical linkages.
Students investigate the geometric properties of the ellipse, parabola, and hyperbola. They apply these principles to real-world design contexts.
Exploration of translations, axial symmetry, central symmetry, and rotations. Students learn to manipulate 2D profiles using these transformations.
Students plot the paths of moving points constrained by specific mechanical linkages. This develops spatial reasoning and understanding of mechanical movement.
02Descriptive Geometry and Projection Systems
Developing spatial visualization through orthographic, axonometric, and perspective projection methods.
Mastery of first and third angle orthographic projection to represent 3D objects in 2D. Students use auxiliary views to find true lengths and true shapes.
Construction of isometric, dimetric, and trimetric projections using the axonometric axes. Students learn to visualize objects in 3D using 2D drawing techniques.
Creating realistic 3D representations using one-point and two-point perspective. Students explore vanishing points, picture planes, and spectator positioning.
03Applied Graphics and Surface Geometry
Applying geometric principles to solve complex spatial problems involving intersecting solids, surface developments, and roof structures.
Determining the lines of intersection when two 3D geometric solids intersect. Students apply cutting planes and auxiliary views to solve complex intersections.
Creating flat 2D patterns that can be folded into 3D objects. Students focus on the development of prisms, cylinders, cones, and transition pieces.
Solving spatial problems related to roof structures, including finding the true shape of roof surfaces and the dihedral angle between adjacent planes.
04Computer Graphics and Parametric Modeling
Introduction to industry-standard CAD software (SolidWorks) for 3D part modeling, assemblies, and generating working drawings.
Students use SolidWorks to create 2D sketches and extrude them into 3D features. They learn the importance of fully defining sketches with dimensions and relations.
Combining individual 3D parts into a functional assembly. Students apply standard and advanced mates to simulate real-world mechanical movement.
Extracting 2D orthographic views, sections, and details from 3D CAD models. Students learn to format drawing sheets to industry standards.
05Design Communication and the Student Assignment
Preparing for the Leaving Certificate Student Assignment through design research, freehand sketching, and portfolio compilation.
Initiating the design process by analyzing existing products and generating new concepts. Students learn to gather primary and secondary research effectively.
Developing rapid visualization skills using freehand sketching, shading, and rendering. Students practice communicating complex 3D forms on paper.
Organizing CAD outputs, sketches, and research into a cohesive design portfolio. Students focus on layout, typography, and visual hierarchy.