This Design and technology video introduces teachers to teaching gear systems, equipping them with the knowledge to help children explore how gears work and how to make them using a variety of materials. It covers how gear teeth interlock to change motion, speed, or direction, and guides teachers through four hands-on techniques for creating gear prototypes, from paper clips and modelling dough to corrugated cardboard and custom templates. The video also highlights common construction issues and how to evaluate the effectiveness of each method.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Design and technology – Mechanisms teacher videos. It simplifies mechanical principles, ensuring teachers feel confident and prepared to help children investigate, build, and test gear systems in the lesson below.

Design and technology, Upper key stage 2, Year 5, Mechanical systems, Option 1: Gears and pulleys,Lesson 2: Improving your gear design