*New* Structures: Stable structures
Exploring the stability of structures and making a stable pencil pot for a specific user.
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*New* 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
- To explore stability by balancing.
Lesson 2: Building stable towers
- To explore wide or narrow bases by building towers.
Lesson 3: Stabilising structures with weight
- To test a structure’s stability with weight added in different places.
Lesson 4: Designing a stable pencil pot
- To design a stable structure that meets the needs of a user.
Lesson 5: Making a stable pencil pot
- To use a variety of cutting and joining techniques to make a stable product.
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: Stable structures
A display version of the vocabulary from the 'Stable structures' unit.
Cross-curricular opportunities
Science: Working scientifically; Everyday materials.
Physical education.
Art.
British values: Mutual respect.