Year 9 - Design and technology
Linear versus circular economy
The circular economy
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will develop knowledge of technology in society and its effects on design. Through the life cycle assessment of popular products, they will learn how to be responsible designers.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to identify linear and circular economies using product examples.
Key Notes
- A linear economy represents 'cradle to grave' product life cycle.
- Circular economy represents 'cradle to cradle' product life cycle.
Vocabulary To Learn
- linear economy: products are often used briefly, become obsolete, and become waste
- circular economy: products and materials are kept in circulation and do not become waste
- obsolete: a product that is no longer used or useful
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Circular economy only means recycling.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the lesson in two key points.
A linear economy represents 'cradle to grave' product life cycle. Circular economy represents 'cradle to cradle' product life cycle.
2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'linear economy'
products are often used briefly, become obsolete, and become waste.
3. Correct this common mistake.
Mistake: Circular economy only means recycling. Correction: The circular economy can be defined as products and materials being kept in circulation and not becoming waste. Design decisions within circular economy can be generated through consideration of 6 Rs: recycle, reuse, rethink, refuse, repair, reduce.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 9 Design and technology guide library.