Pneumatic systems
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use air to create movement in prototypes.
Key learning points
- Balloons and plastic bottles can be linked to make a pneumatic system.
- Syringes and plastic tubing can be linked to make a pneumatic system.
- Different pneumatic systems can create different movements.
- Different pneumatic systems can create moving animals.
Keywords
Pneumatic system - a mechanism that uses moving air to make things happen
Input - something put into a system
Output - something that comes out of a system
Common misconception
Pneumatic systems always cause something to expland or inflate.
Pneumatic systems can cause directed movement of an object without inflation.
Teacher tip
Be aware of pupils with latex allergies if usng latex balloons.
Equipment
Per pair (or small group): clean plastic bottle (washing up/sports bottles with nozzles work best), a 30 cm length of 4/5 mm tubing, a balloon (regular rounded shapes work best).
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - may contain allergens
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What word do we use to describe the invisible mix of gases all around us that we breathe?
Q2.Which word is used to describe an object getting bigger as it fills with air?
Q3.Why does a balloon expand when it is filled with air?
Q4.What would happen to a balloon if too much air was forced inside?
Q5.What makes these objects move?
Q6.Match the product to the way it uses air.
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.When air is forced inside a balloon it ...
Q2.Which word is used to describe a system that uses air to work?
Q3.Which part of this simple pneumatic system is the output?
Q4.What is this device used for?
To help you plan your 3 design and technology lesson on: Pneumatic systems, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 3 design and technology lesson on: Pneumatic systems, 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 Pneumatics: moving toys unit, dive into the full primary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.