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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...