Year 6 - Design and technology
Test and adapt cam mechanisms
Cams: automata
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Study Guides
This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
This unit develops pupils' knowledge of mechanisms through cams. Pupils will develop knowledge of the properties of wood and apply this by selecting suitable materials for functionality. Knowledge of wood construction and joining techniques are introduced and applied through making an automaton.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to test and adapt mechanisms.
Key Notes
- Testing mechanisms repeatedly ensures the function of the product.
- Finishing the automaton figures or models ensures the product looks effective.
Vocabulary To Learn
- effective: works well, performs as expected
- function: work in a particular way
- aesthetics: visual qualities, how something looks
- usable: able to be used
- durable: hard-wearing, long-lasting
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Finished products cannot be changed.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the lesson in two key points.
Testing mechanisms repeatedly ensures the function of the product. Finishing the automaton figures or models ensures the product looks effective.
2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'effective'
works well, performs as expected.
3. Correct this common mistake.
Mistake: Finished products cannot be changed. Correction: Adaptations can be made to individual components in a product to improve effectiveness.
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