New
New
Lesson 3 of 6
New
New
- Year 9
Complex models and colours
I can create and detail complex 3D models.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- 2D shapes can be extruded to create a 3D object.
- 3D models are composed of faces, edges and vertices.
- Additional geometry can be added to a model using the loop cut tool.
- Materials can be applied to individual or groups of faces.
Keywords
Extrude - to transform a 2D shape into a 3D object by extending it along a path or direction
Face - a surface made up of three or more edges
Edge - a line connecting two vertices
Vertex - a point where two or more edges or lines meet
Common misconception
3D models are all made up of simple shapes that are scaled, moved and rotated.
Having only previously used object mode, learners may be unaware that geometry such as vertices, edges and faces can all be directly modified in edit mode. Working in edit mode gives a modeller greater freedom to create more complex models.
Encourage learners to explore Blender and get used to the toolsets and workspace. Learners will need to be comfortable working between object mode and edit mode, so get them to practise switching between the two modes.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device that can create and edit 3D animations. Examples in this lesson use the Blender https://oak.link/blender
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What word describes moving an object around an axis?
What word describes moving an object around an axis?
Q2.What does the timeline help with in animation?
What does the timeline help with in animation?
scaling objects
rotating objects
adding materials
Q3.What is the purpose of a keyframe in animation?
What is the purpose of a keyframe in animation?
to add colour
to scale objects
to rotate objects
Q4.What feature of 3D animation fills in the gaps between keyframes automatically?
What feature of 3D animation fills in the gaps between keyframes automatically?
Q5.What is the function of the 'parenting' process in 3D modelling?
What is the function of the 'parenting' process in 3D modelling?
scaling objects
rotating objects
adding textures
Q6.What is the purpose of adding materials to a 3D object?
What is the purpose of adding materials to a 3D object?
to scale it
to rotate it
to animate it
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What has three or more sides?
What has three or more sides?
Q2.What is the point where edges meet called?
What is the point where edges meet called?
Q3.What is the function of the 'extrude' tool in 3D modelling?
What is the function of the 'extrude' tool in 3D modelling?
to add colour
to scale objects
to rotate objects
Q4.Order the steps to extrude a shape:
Order the steps to extrude a shape:
Q5.Which tool allows you to add additional geometry to a shape?
Which tool allows you to add additional geometry to a shape?
Q6.Which of these statements is incorrect regarding 3D models?
Which of these statements is incorrect regarding 3D models?
3D models can be modified using software tools.
3D models can include materials to change their appearance.
3D models can be made up of complex shapes.
