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Year 1 - Design and technology

Finishing and testing windmill mechanisms

Rotary mechanisms: windmills

Unit Summary

This unit introduces knowledge of simple rotary mechanisms that create movement. Pupils will investigate how windmills work, consider sail design, and produce a working model that will be tested for stability and movement.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to finish and test your windmill.

Key Notes

  • Testing a windmill can be completed inside or outside.
  • A successful windmill will stand on its own.
  • A successful windmill will have sails that rotate.
  • Testing is an important way to check that the windmill works.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • testing: trying something to see if it works and to make changes or improvement to it
  • feedback: comments or suggestions on how to improve a product
  • axle: a rod that holds the sail in place and allows it to turn
  • success criteria: a list which helps to see if the object does what it is expected to do
  • evaluate: checking how good something is and how to make it better

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Windmill have to be tested inside

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Testing a windmill can be completed inside or outside. A successful windmill will stand on its own.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'testing'

trying something to see if it works and to make changes or improvement to it.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Windmill have to be tested inside. Correction: The windmill can be tested inside or outside depending upon the conditions and supervision.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 1 Design and technology guide library.