Making playground structures
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use my knowledge of structure to make a playground mock-up.
Key learning points
- A mock-up uses card techniques learnt so far.
- A mock-up is a model that is useful for trying out ideas.
- Different joining techniques can be used such as masking tape and glue.
- Adding bracing, anchors and wider bases to structures adds support to freestanding structures.
- Straws can be reinforced with pipe cleaners to add strength.
Keywords
Mock-up - making an example of something to test or to learn new skills
Reinforce - to strengthen or support an object or structure
Design specification - describes what a product has to do
Common misconception
Designs need to be decided upon and followed.
Final designs can be adapted and changed, even during the making process. This is because it is always good to be reflective throughout the making process.
Teacher tip
Remind pupils that masking tape can be painted in / decorated, however other joining techniques, such as sticky tape, cannot be painted/decorated. Remind pupils about the different aspects of making something freestanding - anchors, bracing, wider bases.
Equipment
Design specifications, sketch models, range of joining techniques including split pins, range of materials - straws, boxes and pipe cleaners, sticky tack.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the keyword to the correct definition.
Q2.The person using the playground would be the ...
Q3.When a problem is identified in a design specification, the designer needs to think of a __________ to that problem.
Q4.What are sketch models be made from?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the keywords to the correct definition.
Q2.Which of these are ways to add support to structures?
Q3.What is a sketch called which does not use paper and pencil?
Q4.To make a cardboard roundabout rotate (turn), what could you use?
To help you plan your 2 design and technology lesson on: Making playground structures, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 2 design and technology lesson on: Making playground structures, 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 1 design and technology lessons from the Freestanding structures: playgrounds unit, dive into the full primary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.