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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can create prototypes using cardboard and foam modelling techniques.

      Key learning points

      1. Modelling is essential to test designs, gain feedback and improve products before manufacturing.
      2. Understanding user needs and wants is critical to designing effective and accessible products.
      3. Templates are used to save time, ensure consistency and improve the quality of prototypes.
      4. Prototyping methods, like foam and cardboard modelling, help refine the product’s size, shape and function.

      Keywords

      • Modelling - the process of creating physical or digital representations of design ideas to visualise and test them

      • Template - a pattern or guide used for consistency when modelling

      • User - who you are designing for

      • Ideate - to think of or create lots of ideas

      • Prototype - a simple, low-cost model made to check size, shape and function

      Common misconception

      User needs and wants are the same thing.

      Needs are the essential features required for the product to function, while wants are additional features that aren't necessary but would enhance the product if included.

      Teacher tip

      Remind pupils of the various modelling techniques and allow them to select the most suitable for their prototype.

      Equipment

      Cardboard and foam modelling tools and equipment.

      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.
      Which modelling technique is this image showing?

      An image in a quiz
      Correct answer: layering
      folding
      stacking
      fluting

      Q2.
      Put these stages of creating a curved join between two pieces of corrugated cardboard in order.

      1 - Draw and cut a curve on a piece of material.
      2 - Using a biro, intentionally damage the outer liner along the fluted layer.
      3 - Using a craft knife, cut through the outer liner and fluting, then remove.
      4 - Apply PVA and line up both pieces.
      5 - Check the join for accuracy, apply masking tape while it dries.

      Q3.
      Select the liquid adhesive used for bonding paper, cardboard and wood.

      Correct answer: polyvinyl acetate (PVA)
      polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
      polyethylene (PE)
      polystyrene (PS)

      Q4.
      What is fluting?

      the outer layer in corrugated cardboard
      Correct answer: the wavy layer in corrugated cardboard
      the term used when cutting corrugated cardboard
      the term used when folding corrugated cardboard

      Q5.
      What are the advantages of using hot melt adhesive used with a hot glue gun?

      Correct answer: dries quickly
      dries clear
      Correct answer: fills small gaps
      creates a long lasting join

      Q6.
      What is the correct definition for 'user'?

      Correct answer: who you are designing for
      who is designing for you
      who will make the product
      who will sell the product

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Put these stages of product development is order.

      1 - empathise
      2 - define
      3 - ideate
      4 - prototype
      5 - test

      Q2.
      Ideate is to generate many .

      Correct Answer: ideas

      Q3.
      What is the purpose of modelling when designing a new product?

      to immediately begin mass production
      Correct answer: to allow users to interact with a prototype and provide feedback
      to decorate the final product
      to increase the cost of development

      Q4.
      Understanding user needs and is critical to designing effective and accessible products.

      Correct Answer: wants

      To help you plan your 8 design and technology lesson on: Model accessible controllers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...