Teacher video: Exploring how shape affects strength

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Investigating how the shape of a prism affects how much weight it can hold.

In this Design and technology video, the teacher is guided through a method for testing how strong different prisms are when weight is added to them, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to guide Year 2 pupils in carrying out the test themselves.

The video shows how to make the different towers (cylinder, square prism and triangular prism) by rolling or folding paper. Teachers are then guided through the process of placing a series of small books on top of the tower until it collapses, providing tips to help the children carry out a fair test. The emphasis of the learning in this lesson is on experimentation and observation, as well as developing fine motor skills.

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 2 Design and technology scheme of work.

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