This Design and technology scheme of work video introduces teachers to the Year 4 unit where they will design, build and test three mechanised car prototypes. It covers constructing and troubleshooting axle and wheel mechanisms, drawing exploded diagrams and understanding each component’s function. Teachers are guided through the build and launch of each prototype, from a simple inclined plane model to slingshot and wind-up mechanisms. The video includes techniques for evaluating the cars’ performance in terms of sustainabiliy, durability, easthetics, distance travelled and ease of making.

This video breaks down practical techniques and engineering concepts, helping teachers feel confident and prepared to support the children in improving moving vehicle designs in the lesson and unit below.

See more of our Year 4 Design and technology scheme of work.

• Design and technology, Year 4, Mechanical systems, Option one: *New* Mechanical cars, Lesson 1: Prototype 1: Inclined plane.
• Design and technology, Year 4, Mechanical systems, Option one: *New* Mechanical cars.