Gears
I can describe the function of gears using specific examples.
Gears
I can describe the function of gears using specific examples.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Gears transmit rotary motion.
- A rack and pinion can transfer rotary motion to linear.
Keywords
Gear - a toothed wheel that normally connects to another gear
Driver gear - provides the input movement
Driven gear - provides the output movement
Gear ratio - shows how one gear's speed or force affects another's
Rack and pinion - uses a gear to change rotary motion to linear motion on a rack
Common misconception
Increasing the size of the driven gear, increases the output speed.
Decreasing the size of the driven gear (or increasing the size of driver gear), increases the speed of the driven gear.
To help you plan your year 11 design and technology lesson on: Gears , download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 design and technology lesson on: Gears , 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 4 design and technology lessons from the Core principles unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions
motion in a circle
motion one way in a straight line
motion backwards and forwards in a straight line
motion in an arc


provides the input motion
provides the output motion
transfers the motion

Exit quiz
6 Questions


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