A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Design and Technology, Year 5, Structures – Bridges.
This resource is designed to support the pupils as they explore the design and construction of different types of bridges. It introduces key vocabulary such as arch, suspension bridge, tension, compression, and reinforcement, helping the pupils develop an understanding of structural engineering principles. The pupils will also learn about forces that affect structures, such as push, pull, and gravity, and how different designs distribute weight effectively. It is perfect for consolidating essential knowledge and fostering creativity by allowing the pupils to design and build their own bridge models.
A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Archived – Design and technology, Year 6, Mechanical systems: Automata toys.
This resource introduces pupils to the mechanical systems behind Automata toys, sometimes referred to as mechanical or kinetic art. It explains how these toys use hand-powered mechanisms to create movement through key components such as cams, followers, axles, frames, and characters. The organiser defines important tools and materials like dowels, clamps, and drill bits, and includes a visual guide to different cam shapes—round, snail, and ellipse—demonstrating how they produce varied motion effects. Pupils are also introduced to terminology such as “exploded diagram,” “cutting list,” and “linkage,” supporting the development of practical skills and design vocabulary needed to create functioning mechanical toys.
A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Design and Technology, Year 6, Electrical Systems – Steady Hand Game.
This resource is designed to support the pupils as they explore how electrical circuits and components are used to create interactive games. It introduces key vocabulary such as circuit, conductor, switch, buzzer, and series circuit, helping the pupils understand how electrical systems function. The pupils will learn how to use materials like copper wire to create a conductive path, integrate switches to control circuits, and design a challenging steady hand game that tests precision and coordination. It is perfect for consolidating essential knowledge and fostering creativity by allowing the pupils to design, build, and test their own electrical games.
A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Design and Technology, Year 6, Structure – Playgrounds.
This resource is designed to support the pupils as they explore the design and construction of playground structures. It introduces key vocabulary such as apparatus, dowel, reinforce, prototype, and plan view, helping the pupils develop an understanding of how different materials and techniques are used to create strong and safe structures. The pupils will also learn about woodworking tools, including the coping saw, tenon saw, vice, and bench hook, which are essential for accurate cutting and assembly. It is perfect for consolidating essential knowledge and fostering creativity by allowing the pupils to design and build their own playground models.
A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Design and Technology, Year 6, Textiles – Waistcoats.
This resource is designed to support the pupils as they explore the process of designing and making a waistcoat. It introduces key vocabulary such as fabric, seam, fastening, running-stitch, and template, helping the pupils develop an understanding of textile construction. The pupils will learn how to take accurate measurements, select appropriate materials, and apply sewing techniques to create a functional and well-fitted waistcoat. It is perfect for consolidating essential knowledge and fostering creativity by allowing the pupils to plan, design, and sew a unique garment. Through hands-on activities, they will refine their fine motor skills, practise precision in cutting and stitching, and evaluate their designs for both function and aesthetics. The unit also encourages problem-solving and an appreciation for clothing design, helping the pupils develop confidence in working with textiles.
A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Archived – Design and technology, Year 5, Cooking and nutrition: What could be healthier?
This resource is designed to support pupils as they explore how to make healthier food choices through understanding the full journey from farm to fork. It outlines key stages of food production, including farming, processing, packaging, transport, and consumption, alongside important concepts such as cross-contamination, ethical animal welfare and nutritional balance. Featuring vocabulary definitions and guidance based on the NHS Eatwell Guide, it equips pupils with essential knowledge to make informed, safe and ethical food choices in both design and real-life contexts.
A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Design and technology, Year 5, Mechanical systems – Option 2: Making a pop-up book.
This resource is designed to support the pupils as they explore how mechanical systems bring movement to pop-up books. It introduces key vocabulary such as linkage, pivot, slider, input, output, and exploded diagram, helping the pupils understand how mechanisms work to create interactive designs. The pupils will also learn about design criteria and computer-aided design (CAD) to develop precise and creative pop-up elements. It is perfect for consolidating essential knowledge and fostering creativity by allowing the pupils to design and construct their own pop-up books. Through hands-on activities, they will experiment with different mechanisms, refine their prototypes, and evaluate their designs for both function and aesthetic appeal.
A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learned throughout the unit Design and technology, Year 5, Textiles: Stuffed toys.
This resource is designed to support the pupils as they develop their understanding of textile construction by designing and making their own stuffed toys. It introduces key vocabulary such as fabric, stuffing, template, blanket-stitch, and appendage, helping the pupils learn how different materials and techniques are used to create soft toys. They will explore various stitching techniques, including cross-stitch, running-stitch, and appliqué, and understand how these methods contribute to the structure and durability of their designs. It is perfect for consolidating essential knowledge and fostering creativity by allowing the pupils to plan, design, and sew their own stuffed toys.
