Backpack of the future (Secondary)

In this KS3 activity, learners will make use of the theme of new and future technologies to design a futuristic backpack.

This KS3 classroom activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach about designing textile and graphics-based products in context, or the use of new technologies within designs. It could also be used as part of wider scheme of learning focussed on the design process.

We’ve created this design teaching resource activity to support the delivery of key topics within design & technology (D&T) and engineering.

Activity
Learners will be introduced to the purpose of backpacks and how they are used across a wide range of different people. They will then produce a labelled sketch of their design idea to meet the given design brief and criteria. Learners can self or peer-assess their design work suggesting any improvements that could be made.

Brief: Design the dream backpack of the future.

Criteria: The design must include a way of comfortably wearing the backpack on the back, spaces to carry different items, colours that show personality and clever STEM gadgets and special tech that allow it to do incredible things.

Considerations:
Originality: How original is the idea?
Feasibility: How feasible is it that the design can be turned into a real-life prototype?
Creativity: How creative is the idea?
Engineering: What engineering processes have been used in the design?

** Evaluation**
Evaluate how well the design meets the design criteria:
Which points does it meet? How?
Which points does it not meet? Why?
How could you improve your design?

Possible extension
Make a prototype or model of your backpack design
Design a backpack for doctors or paramedics to carry their medical equipment
Design a backpack for your favourite sports star

The Engineering Context
Engineers need to understand how materials and new technologies could be used to produce improved future product designs. For example, how sustainable materials, materials with improved properties or renewable energy could be used in backpack design in the future.

Suggested learning outcomes
This resource combines design and technology with engineering with the aim that the learners will be able to understand the purpose and different uses of backpacks and be able to design the backpack of the future.

Download our activity sheet for free!
All activity sheets and supporting resources are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

You can download our step-by-step instructions below as a classroom lesson plan and helpful PowerPoint presentation.

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