This Design and technology scheme of work video introduces teachers to the basics of pneumatics in Year 3,  supporting them in guiding the children to explore how trapped air can create movement. It features practical activities such as lifting books with balloons, raising box lids using air pressure and experimenting with syringes and tubing to demonstrate compression. These tasks help the children connect everyday mechanisms to scientific principles in an engaging, hands-on way.

The video breaks down technical ideas clearly, ensuring teachers feel confident and well prepared to lead the activities. It supports delivery of the lesson below through step-by-step modelling and clear subject knowledge.

See more of our Year 3 Design and technology scheme of work.

• Design and technology, Year 3, Mechanical systems: Pneumatic toys, Option one: *New* Pneumatic toys, Lesson 1: Exploring pneumatics.
• Design and technology, Year 3, Mechanical systems: Pneumatic toys, Option one: *New* Pneumatic toys.