Preparing materials for playground structures
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explore and create structures using paper and card.
Key learning points
- Shapes, such as springs, can be created by folding card.
- Different joining techniques can be used to join paper and card in different ways to create different effects.
- Measuring and marking out shapes, helps to create mock-up models and different effects.
- Different shapes and structures can be made using pipe cleaners.
Keywords
Measuring (with a ruler) - to find a number that shows the size of something
Marking out - drawing lines to show where to cut
Joining techniques - ways to join two things together so they stay connected
Common misconception
Buttresses, bracing, anchors, wider bases and reinforced sides need to be on every single mock-up model for it to be freestanding.
Not all structures need a buttress, bracing, anchors, wider bases or reinforcing, it depends on the materials that are being used, the size, height and what the object is going to do.
Teacher tip
Recap how to use a split pin by using sticky tack on the table and a pencil to make a hole in the card or paper. This will be the safest and easiest method.
Equipment
Pencil, ruler, scissors, paper or card, sticky tack, range of joining techniques (including split pins).
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What does this picture show?
Q2.What type of structure is this?
Q3.What structure is this?
Q4.To reinforce something, you make it .
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match these keywords to the correct definition.
Q2.What tool would you use to measure a length on paper?
Q3.Which joining technique could you use to make something turn around in a circular motion?
Q4.In your playground design, what could you use this piece of folded paper or card for?
To help you plan your 2 design and technology lesson on: Preparing materials for 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: Preparing materials for 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.