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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use isometric sketching and the crating technique to draw 3D shapes.

      Key learning points

      1. Isometric drawing is a 3D representation.
      2. A box or crate can be used to form the basis of much more complex designs.

      Keywords

      • Isometric - a 3D representation of an object where sides are drawn at 30 degrees

      • Perspective - a drawing technique that creates the illusion of depth and space on a flat surface

      • Crating - a technique used to draw more complex 3D shapes

      Common misconception

      Students might confuse isometric drawing with oblique drawing.

      Use side by side comparisons to allow students to see the distinct differences.

      Teacher tip

      Begin with simple demonstrations. Live teacher modelling using a visualiser to show students how to use the isometric paper correctly to build up 3D shapes.

      Equipment

      Pencil, isometric paper, tracing / layout paper.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), 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.
      Freehand sketching is used for quick drawings made without tools for capturing ideas fast.

      Correct answer: True
      False

      Q2.
      What does 3D stand for?

      Correct answer: 3 dimensions
      3 designs
      3 digital
      3 developments

      Q3.
      Which of these tools is NOT commonly used for sketching?

      pencil
      rubber/eraser
      ruler
      Correct answer: paintbrush

      Q4.
      What is the best way to improve your sketching skills?

      trace lots of pictures
      Correct answer: practice regularly
      sketch once a month

      Q5.
      How has this image been produced?

      An image in a quiz
      Correct answer: computer aided design
      sketching
      rendering

      Q6.
      What type of drawing paper is pictured?

      An image in a quiz
      Correct answer: isometric
      oblique
      perspective
      Q5 Tinkercad/Autodesk screen shots reprinted courtesy of Autodesk, Inc.

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which communication method is pictured?

      An image in a quiz
      isometric drawing
      orthographic projection
      freehand sketching
      Correct answer: exploded drawing
      perspective drawing

      Q2.
      What communication technique would be used for initial rough ideas?

      orthographic projection
      exploded drawing
      Correct answer: freehand sketching
      perspective drawing

      Q3.
      What angle do isometric drawings show objects at?

      Correct answer: 30 degrees
      45 degrees
      90 degrees

      Q4.
      Which communication technique is pictured?

      An image in a quiz
      boxing
      Correct answer: crating
      hatching
      rendering

      To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: Crating techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...