Learning objective
- To make mechanisms with two levers.
Success criteria
- I can select the right materials to
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National curriculum
Design and technology
Make
Pupils
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Cross-curricular links
Before the lesson
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Lesson plan
Recap and recall
Explain that the children will think carefully about similarities and differences. Display the Presentation: Odd one out and explain the activity to the children. Allow time for paired discussion.
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Adaptive teaching
Pupils needing extra support
- Could have materials pre-cut to make the cutting stage more manageable.
- Could use a pre-made example to understand how two levers are constructed.
Pupils working at greater depth
- Should articulate why selecting unsuitable materials would affect how well their mechanism meets its purpose and identify alternatives that would improve it.
- Could suggest real-life items similar to their mechanisms.
- Could adapt and refine their design, explaining how changes improve its ability to pick up items.
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Assessing progress and understanding
Pupils with secure understanding indicated by: selecting appropriate materials for their mechanisms; identifying
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Vocabulary definitions
-
pivot
The point where the lever moves from.
-
purpose
The reason why something is made or used.
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In this unit
Lesson 1: Seesaws
Lesson 2: Levers in action
Lesson 3: Scissors
Lesson 4: Two levers together
Lesson 5: Everyday levers
Maintained by: Kapow Primary team
Last update: 14th January, 2026
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