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Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can ensure my packaging is strong.

Key learning points

  1. Prototype shell structures can be strengthened with recycled materials.
  2. Packaging reinforcements need to be measured and joined accurately.

Keywords

  • Strengthen - make stronger

  • Reinforce - add additional parts to support

  • Shell - the outer structure or surface of an object

  • Accurately - correct and exact, with no mistakes

Common misconception

Packaging can only be reinforced from the inside.

Packaging can be reinforced on the inside and/or the outside using different methods.

Teacher tip

Have a range of recycled or recyclable card materials for pupils to use.

Equipment

Recycled/recyclable card products, scissors, rulers, glue, tape.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Lesson video

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Prior knowledge starter quiz

6 Questions

Q1.
Looking at the dimensions, which packaging would this cookie fit into?

An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz
Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz
An image in a quiz

Q2.
Which of these wouldn't be used to join cardboard packaging?

tape
glue
staples
Correct answer: scissors

Q3.
Why is it important to measure each side carefully when drawing a net?

so it will fold by itself
Correct answer: so they line up when it's folded
so it will fold easily
so it will curve

Q4.
What does the word assemble mean?

Correct answer: put pieces together
apply glue
cut out shapes
measure a line
decide on a shape

Q5.
What do we call a model of a product made to test how it works?

Correct Answer: prototype, a prototype, proto type, a proto type

Q6.
Which word is missing from this phrase? Reduce, reuse, ...

rewind.
rework.
remake.
Correct answer: recycle.

4 Questions

Q1.
What happens when you strengthen something?

it gets smaller
Correct answer: it gets stronger
it gets bigger
it gets weaker

Q2.
Which word describes the method of adding layers to strengthen a material?

An image in a quiz
elimination
Correct answer: lamination
celebration
conversation

Q3.
What does the word accuracy mean?

guessing
estimating
Correct answer: being exact
being wrong

Q4.
Sort these steps into the correct order to create a sleeve reinforcement.

1 - take measurements
2 - draw net
3 - bend folds
4 - glue/tape
5 - slide into place

To help you plan your 3 design and technology lesson on: Strengthen packaging, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...