Structures: Stable structures
Investigating stable shapes and using an understanding of balance to discover how wide or heavy bases improve stability in freestanding structures.
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Structures: Stable structures
Unit outcomes
Pupils who are secure will be able to:
- Explain that structures are things that are built and have a purpose.
- Understand that structures with a wider base are more stable than ones with a narrow base.
- Explain that extra weight added to the base of a structure makes it more stable.
- Design a product for a particular user.
- Use a sketch to show ideas.
- Choose the best method for joining the parts of the product.
- Make evenly spaced cuts.
- Use scissors to cut out a shape neatly and accurately.
- Explain what they like and dislike about their final product.
Suggested prior learning
Structures: Junk modelling
Get startedLessons
Lesson 1: Exploring stability
Lesson 2: Building stable towers
Lesson 3: Stabilising structures with weight
Lesson 4: Designing a stable pencil pot
Lesson 5: Making a stable pencil pot
Key skills
Key knowledge
Related content
Resources
Unit resources
Design and technology
Knowledge organiser – D&T Y1: Structures: Stable structures
Aimed at pupils, a single page which gives key facts and definitions from the unit ‘Stable structures’.
Design and technology
Vocabulary display – D&T Y1: Structures: Stable structures
A display version of the vocabulary from the unit 'Stable structures'.
Cross-curricular opportunities
Science: Working scientifically; Everyday materials.
Physical education.
Art.
British values: Mutual respect.