*New* Mechanical systems: Automata toys
Developing functional automata toys for a window display using cams, followers and axles to create movement.
Please note
This unit offers clearer video instruction, opportunities to interpret exploded diagrams and additional time to explore different cam shapes and make design choices that impact the final product. The Archived unit: Mechanical systems: Automata toys will no longer be updated.
Unit outcomes
Pupils who are secure will be able to:
- Mark, saw and cut out the components and supports of their toy with varying degrees of accuracy to the intended measurements.
- Follow health and safety rules, taking care with the equipment.
- Attempt a partial assembly of their toys using an exploded diagram following a teacher’s demonstration.
- Develop a design idea with some descriptive notes.
- Explore different cam profiles and choose three for their follower toppers with an explanation of their choices.
- Create neat, decorated follower toppers with some accuracy.
- Measure and cut panels that fit with some inaccuracies to conceal the inner workings of the automata.
- Decorate and finish the automata to meet the design criteria and brief.
- Evaluate their finished product, making descriptive and reflective points on function and form.
Lesson plans
Lesson 1: Automata
Lesson 2: Frame assembly
Lesson 3: Experimenting with cams
Lesson 4: Finishing touches
Key skills
Design
- Noticing wider-reaching
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Key knowledge
Technical knowledge: Mechanical systems
To
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Key vocabulary
accurate
automata
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Related content
Unit resources
*New* Knowledge organiser: D&T – Y6 Automata toys
A summary of the most important information for pupils. Captures the key facts and definitions from the Design and technology…
*New* Vocabulary display: Automata toys
A display version of the key vocabulary from the Automata toys unit.
Subject resources
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Cross-curricular opportunities
British values: Mutual respect.
In this unit on automata mechanical toys, pupils develop mutual respect by collaborating on toy design, following safety rules, and providing constructive feedback.
