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Year 2 - Design and technology

Making playground structures

Freestanding structures: playgrounds

Unit Summary

This unit develops pupils' knowledge of freestanding structures and how to make them more stable. Pupils will analyse different structures, shapes and construction techniques to make piece of play equipment.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use your knowledge of structure to make a playground mock-up.

Key Notes

  • A mock-up uses card techniques learnt so far.
  • A mock-up is a model that is useful for trying out ideas.
  • Different joining techniques can be used such as masking tape and glue.
  • Adding bracing, anchors and wider bases to structures adds support to freestanding structures.
  • Straws can be reinforced with pipe cleaners to add strength.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • mock-up: making an example of something to test or to learn new skills
  • reinforce: to strengthen or support an object or structure
  • design specification: describes what a product has to do

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Designs need to be decided upon and followed.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

A mock-up uses card techniques learnt so far. A mock-up is a model that is useful for trying out ideas.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'mock-up'

making an example of something to test or to learn new skills.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Designs need to be decided upon and followed. Correction: Final designs can be adapted and changed, even during the making process. This is because it is always good to be reflective throughout the making process.

More Lessons In This Unit

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