Make an architectural 3D model
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can construct a 3D architectural model using shapes, design ideas and building techniques.
Key learning points
- Architects use 3D models to plan and test building ideas.
- Simple shapes like cubes, prisms and cylinders can be used to construct buildings.
- Structures must be stable and carefully joined for strength.
Keywords
3D - a shape or object with height, width and depth
Model - a small-scale version of a structure used to test or present a design
Structure - the parts of a building that hold it up and give it shape
Stability - how well a structure stands without falling or wobbling
Join - to connect two parts together using tape, glue, folds, or tabs
Common misconception
If the model looks good, it doesn’t matter if it does not stand properly.
A successful architectural model is both visually creative and structurally sound. Aim to build with purpose to create stability.
Teacher tip
Encourage pupils to plan before building and test each part for strength. Highlight that not all models must be perfect - this is a creative process where trial and improvement matter just as much as the final result.
Equipment
Cardboard and paper (varied sizes). Recycled materials (e.g. boxes, tubes). PVA glue, glue sticks, masking tape, scissors. Paints (poster or acrylic). Rulers, pencils, felt tips or colouring pencils.
Licence
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A design brief is ...
Q2.What is one thing you should do when others are talking in your group?
Q3.Which of these is an example of an idea during group work?
Q4.Match the word to its meaning:
The rules for your design
Working together as a team
A thought or suggestion
Q5.Put these collaboration actions in order of when you’d do them:
Q6. means working together as a team.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What does “3D” mean when we are making a model?
Q2.What is the best way to make a model stable?
Q3.What do we use to hold two parts of a model together?
Q4.A is an example of a structure.
Q5.What do we use 2D nets for?
Q6.Match the type of card to how it is best used in a model:
Big structural parts
Small detailed parts
How well a structure stands without falling or wobbling
To help you plan your 4 art and design lesson on: Make an architectural 3D model, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 art and design lesson on: Make an architectural 3D model, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 art and design lessons from the Architecture: drawing and 3D design unit, dive into the full primary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.