In this Design and technology video, teachers are guided through various methods for making small frame structures using lengths of wood.

The video explains how children use their CAD designs to build physical playground structure prototypes over two lessons, emphasising planning, material selection and problem-solving. Pupils create equipment lists, label materials on their designs and adapt plans as construction progresses. It demonstrates safe, supervised wood sawing, basic frame construction techniques and different joining and reinforcing methods, such as glue, masking tape, triangulation and card or wood supports. The video supports teachers to guide pupils through the process of creating a range of types of structures and some of the areas where they may require more guidance.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Design and technology videos, which enable teachers and pupils to explore and make their own products.

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

Design and technology, Year 6, Structures: Playground pioneers, Lesson 3: Making a prototype of a structure.