Rob Ives has created a system for making working mechanisms from card and presenting them in a way that pupils can construct and operate. His fascinating book contains 10 cardboard engineering projects which result in working automata of increasing complexity.

Templates for all the components needed to construct the models are printed so that they can be photocopied onto card, cut out and folded into shape.

This is a world away from the impossible sketches and wobbly mock-ups that characterise most of the preparatory work on automata in schools.

There are helpful suggestions for research activities and each project is followed by a page of ideas to show how the work can be extended. Many teachers will find the glossary and information about related websites useful.

Introductory pages deal briefly, but clearly, with general aspects of cams, linkages and cranks, and there are helpful notes on card construction techniques.

The page that deals with the mathematics of model making explains the related concepts very well. The real bonus for this book, though, is the associated website, which supports and develops the information in the book.

This is a perfect resource for KS3 children, although everything in it can be adapted for use with pupils of all ages.

At just under pound;30 for a photocopiable resource that will give a huge boost to mechanisms work in schools, the book is good value for money.

Simon Smith

Simon Smith is head of design technology at Colfe’s School in London