Test and adapt cam mechanisms
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can test and adapt mechanisms.
Key learning points
- Testing mechanisms repeatedly ensures the function of the product.
- Finishing the automaton figures or models ensures the product looks effective.
Keywords
Effective - works well, performs as expected
Function - work in a particular way
Aesthetics - visual qualities, how something looks
Usable - able to be used
Durable - hard-wearing, long-lasting
Common misconception
Finished products cannot be changed.
Adaptations can be made to individual components in a product to improve effectiveness.
Teacher tip
Pupils should only make reasonable changes to their automaton products. Products which do not function correctly despite reasonable adaptations could be used as examples for discussion alongside functioning products.
Equipment
Please see additional materials document for a list of resources needed in this lesson.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which material is a thicker, sturdier version of paper?
Q2.Which of these materials is the strongest and most durable?
Q3.What type of mechanism makes an automaton toy work?
Q4.Which of these tools would be most suitable to cut cardboard?
Q5.Which of these is an example of a product?
Q6.Which of these is an example of a finishing technique?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What are the downsides of using PVA glue as a joining material?
Q2.What does the word 'aesthetic' mean?
Q3.What does 'aesthetics' mean?
Q4.What is the main purpose of testing a product?
Q5.When testing products, what do these words mean?
Q6.Which of these is NOT a reason to test a product?
To help you plan your 6 design and technology lesson on: Test and adapt cam mechanisms, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 design and technology lesson on: Test and adapt cam mechanisms, 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 design and technology lessons from the Cams: automata unit, dive into the full primary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.