This Design and technology teacher video demonstrates how to make a linkage mechanism using card strips and split pins. It explains how to connect a series of levers using split pins as pivots, allowing the parts to move in relation to one another.

The video also provides practical guidance on supporting pupils in experimenting with different lengths and widths of card strips to explore how these affect the movement of the linkage. It demonstrates how to reinforce card that is too flexible, helping teachers support pupils in constructing and refining their own linkage mechanisms.

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 3 Design and technology scheme of work.

• Design and technology, Year 3, Mechanical systems: Making a moving monster, Lesson 2: Making linkages.
• Design and technology, Year 3, Mechanical systems: Making a moving monster.