This Design and technology scheme of work video shows the children how to build and test a cam mechanism for their automaton toys. It demonstrates how to cut and assemble cams using templates, prepare and align holes for followers and use straws and dowel rods to create a working motion system. The video also shows how to space the cams correctly, reduce friction and adjust the followers so the mechanism moves smoothly.

By breaking the process into clear steps, the video helps the children feel confident and ready to build a working cam-based system in the lesson and unit below.

See more of our Year 6 Design and technology scheme of work.

• Design and technology, Upper key stage 2, Year 6, *New* Mechanical systems: Automata toys, Lesson 3: Experimenting with the cams.
• Design and technology, Upper key stage 2, Year 6, *New* Mechanical systems: Automata toys.