DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

INTENT: For children to describe pulleys, levers and gears. 

IMPLEMENTATION: Children discussed what a pulley system, gears and levers are. They recapped their knowledge from Year 3 and 4 and built on this with new learning about pulleys. The children then sorted pictures of different items, focusing on which of these mechanisms they include. 

IMPACT: Children are able to describe the key features of a pulley, gears and levers. 

INTENT: For children to design and pulley system. 

IMPLEMENTATION: Children worked in small groups to design a pulley system - like a water well or crane - that could pick up loads. They explore using some pulley mechanisms in order to design what would work best for their future craft. In groups, children drew a design for their pulley system, thinking out how the pulley will need to be supported to function. 

IMPACT: Children practised using a pulley and design their own system. 

INTENT: For children to create a pulley system. 

IMPLEMENTATION: Children worked in groups to put together a pulley system, designed for lifting. Once put together, the groups tested out their systems, trying to lift items that were as heavy as possible. In their groups, children then reflected in their design and decided how they would do this differently if they were to do it again. 

IMPACT: Children understand that a pulley is designed to help carry heavy loads. 

INTENT: For children to practise a focused skill which will support them in their final piece. 

IMPLEMENTATION: We practised the skill of sawing as thins will be a vital part of the design and make process. Children practised measuring their dowel and sawing this safely and effectively. We identified why we need our dowel to be a specific length and the importance of keeping safe. 

IMPACT: Everyone was able to saw through dowel safely and effectively. 

INTENT: For children to create a toy using cams.

IMPLEMENTATION: We had a whole DT Day this year to complete our toys. We used specific skills such as sawing, gluing and drilling to creeate our final toys. We were guided by our design criteria where we ensure it was appropriate for children, had a CAM mechanism along with both linear and rotary movements. 

IMPACT: Children were able to demonstrate skills successfully and safely. They could all explain and identify their  linear and rotary movements. 

INTENT: For children to evaluate their toy. 

IMPLEMENTATION: Children shared their toys and talked about their experienc of the design and make process. They identified things that went well, something they found hard and one things they'd change next time. 

IMPACT: Children were able to discuss how they'd make their structures more secure, things that they would change, any challenges they overcome and how they worked as a team to agree on things.