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Year 8 - Design and technology

Cardboard modelling techniques

Ergonomic design: accessible controllers

Unit Summary

Pupils will gather and analyse ergonomic and anthropometric data to inform the design of a game controller. Pupils will be introduced to polymer properties and processes. They will develop and apply foam and complex card modelling techniques to manufacture their product.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use cardboard modelling to develop ideas.

Key Notes

  • Cardboard is a thick, strong paper material made from layers of wood pulp.
  • Cardboard used for packaging, crafts, and creating prototypes as it is strong, ridgid, light, and easy to cut or fold.
  • Corrugated cardboard is used for prototyping due to its structural integrity, strength and versatility.
  • Cardboard can be layered, slotted, folded, scored, and joined to build strong 3D models.
  • When modelling with cardboard, adhesives need to be used.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • prototype: a simple, low-cost model made to check size, shape, and function
  • corrugated cardboard: cardboard with a fluted layer to increase strength and rigidity
  • fluting: the wavy layer in corrugated cardboard
  • adhesive: a substance used to bond materials through a chemical reaction

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Cardboard is a weak material that is not suitable for modeling.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Cardboard is a thick, strong paper material made from layers of wood pulp. Cardboard used for packaging, crafts, and creating prototypes as it is strong, ridgid, light, and easy to cut or fold.

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

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

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Cardboard is a weak material that is not suitable for modeling. Correction: Cardboard has a fluted layer that increases its strength and rigidity. Modelling techniques, such as layering, can be used to increase its strength further, making it a versatile and very good material to model with.

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