This Design and technology scheme of work video introduces teachers to the next stage in building automaton toys, focusing on constructing and testing cam mechanisms. It shows how to cut and assemble cams using templates, prepare and align holes for followers and use straws and dowel rods to build a working motion system. Teachers are guided through spacing cams, reducing friction and adjusting follower movement to ensure the mechanism works smoothly.

The video simplifies mechanical assembly so teachers feel confident and well prepared to support the children in creating working cam-based systems 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 cams.
• Design and technology, Upper key stage 2, Year 6, *New* Mechanical systems: Automata toys.