Sketching an idea and writing a microcontroller program for the line painting robot to follow This resource focusses on robotics engineering where learners design and write a program for a robot that could mark out the pitch lines for a game of football. Students will produce a labelled sketch of their idea and write a microcontroller program for the electronic aspects of the robot. This is one of a series of resources that are designed to allow learners to use the theme of sports to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology and Engineering. The teacher will introduce the theme of playing football on the moon and the challenges that would be faced when doing this, before explaining the robot design worksheet and task ahead to design and assemble their robot and then program it to complete the task assigned. This activity is designed to take between 90-140 minutes. Tools/resources required Pens, pencils and coloured pencils Crumble controller board and USB download cable Three red crocodile clips and three black crocodile clips Three AA batteries and battery pack Two Crumble motors Crumble software and computer hardware for programming The engineering context Electrical, electronic and control engineers need to have knowledge, understanding and skills associated with circuit design and assembly, and the programming of electronic control systems. Travelling and potentially living on the moon presents all sorts of challenges for engineers to overcome. For example, how will we breathe, how will we cope with much lower gravity, how will we play sports and keep fit? Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to understand the challenges of living and playing football on the moon; be able to produce a labelled sketch of a design for a moon based pitch marker robot and be able to write a program for the electronics of the orbit, so it can mark out the pitch. All activity sheets and supporting resources to design a robot are free online to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Designing and making a foldable goal that could be transported to and used in Lunar football matches In this activity learners will make use of the theme of football on the moon to design and make a model of a foldable goal for use in a Lunar league football game. They will consider the issues with playing football on the moon and transporting equipment to it. They will then design and make a model of a goal that could be folded into a tube for transport, then opened up and used. This is one of a series of resources that are designed to allow learners to use the theme of football on the moon to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology and Engineering. This resource focusses on learners designing and making a model of a foldable goal that could be transported to, and then used for a game of football on the moon. The teacher will introduce the theme of playing football on the moon and the challenges that would be faced when doing this, before explaining the design brief and task ahead to design, make and test a model goal. This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by providing templates for the shape of the goals and/or pre-cutting the straws and string into required sizes. As an extension students could organise a Lunar Football League with other groups in the school; design and make a model of a space rocket to get your goals to the moon and/or design foldable equipment for other sports, such as Rugby goals or a cricket sightscreen. This activity is designed to take between 60-100 minutes. Tools/resources required Paper straws Scissors String (or wool) Ruler Pencils A bamboo skewer or similar thin rod Sticky tape A cardboard tube (E.g. the inside of a cling-film/tin foil roll) A small ball, such as a table tennis ball The engineering context Travelling and potentially living on the moon presents all sorts of challenges for engineers to overcome. For example, how will we breathe, how will we cope with much lower gravity, how will we play sports and keep fit? Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to understand the challenges of living and playing football on the moon; design and make a model of a foldable goal; and understand the function of different shapes of structure. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Testing the electrical resistivity of different materials In this activity learners will make use of the theme of electrical resistance to experiment with an electronic circuit. They will learn how to use an electronic multimeter and will then apply their skills to test the electrical resistivity of various materials. This activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach about resistors and their use. It could also be used as part of a wider scheme of learning focussing on the selection of materials for different applications. This is one of a series of resources developed in association with the National Grid ESO, to allow learners to use the theme of electronics to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology and Science. This resource focusses on practical experiments investigating the resistance of different materials. National Grid ESO ensure that Great Britain has the essential energy it needs by ensuring supply meets demand every second of every day. The teacher will explain what is meant by resistance and then explain the task to the learners through a series of practical hands-on activities. At the end of the session the teacher will get the learners back together to discuss their findings. This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by setting up the multimeter in advance to the correct range before handing to learners. This activity is designed to take between 45-70 minutes. Tools/resources required Multimeters (digital or analogue) Assorted resistors, including 33kΩ Breadboards Crocodile clips Pencils and paper Glass of water Table salt Selection of materials (for the extension activity) The engineering context Many components, such as integrated circuits, can be damaged by high current. An understanding of resistance allows electrical engineers to select resistors to protect these components, ensuring the effective and continued operation of the electronic devices. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to choose materials based on their resistivity; understand the basics of resistance; and be able to use electronic devices to measure resistance. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Calculating the energy used by different electrical appliances and devices within the home In this activity learners will calculate the energy usage of different electrical appliances. They will first calculate the power consumption using P = I V, then use the results of these calculations to work out how much energy each uses in kilowatt hours (kWh). This activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach about electrical power and energy, and how each are calculated. It could also be used as part of a wider scheme of learning focussing on electricity and the National Grid or as an exercise to use mathematical skills in a practical context. This is one of a series of resources developed in association with the National Grid ESO, to allow learners to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology and Engineering. This resource focusses on calculating the energy usage of different appliances and considering how this could be reduced. National Grid ESO ensure that Great Britain has the essential energy it needs by ensuring supply meets demand every second of every day. This activity is designed to take between 40-70 minutes. Tools/resources required Writing implements (pens or pencils) Calculators The engineering context Engineers have a moral and ethical responsibility to ensure that their work is sustainable and that they do not negatively impact the environment. This includes reducing energy consumption wherever possible. As such, it is important that all engineers understand how products and systems are powered and how much energy they use. Power engineering is a very important field which focusses on how energy is generated, transmitted and used by homes and businesses. There are lots of well-paid and rewarding careers available in this area. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to calculate the power consumption of different appliances using P = I V; calculate the energy consumption of different appliances; and be able to show calculated data as part of a table. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Make a jigsaw that shows the main elements in power generation and transmission In this activity learners will make use of the theme of the National Grid to complete a labelled jigsaw of the main parts of the electricity distribution network. They will assemble the different pieces into an image of the National Grid network and use labelled cards to identify each part. This is one of a set of resources designed to allow learners to use practical methods to support the delivery of key topics within Design & Technology, Science, and Engineering. This resource, developed with the support of National Grid ESO, focusses on learners developing knowledge of the different parts of the National Grid by completing a jigsaw of it. National Grid ESO ensure that Great Britain has the essential energy it needs by ensuring supply meets demand every second of every day. The teacher will explain the purpose of the National Grid and how it works before setting the students with the task of completing the jigsaw and then reviewing responses and discussing outcomes on completion of the work. This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by using the jigsaw template with the labels already added. As an extension students could try using the internet to identify the different methods used to generate electricity, and then discussing what the advantages and disadvantages are of each method. Students could also investigate what a transformer is used for and find out why it is needed. This activity is designed to take between 25-40 minutes. Tools/resources required Card for the jigsaw image and labels Laminating facilities (if the jigsaws are to be re-used with different classes) The engineering context It is important that all engineers understand how products and systems are powered. This includes how electricity is generated, transmitted and made available for us to use in our homes and businesses. Power engineering is a very important field which focusses on how energy is generated and transmitted. There are lots of well-paid and rewarding careers available in this area. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to assemble a jigsaw of the National Grid and be able to identify each of the main parts. Students should also be able to describe the purpose of each stage of the National Grid network. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Design and make a circuit to detect an overflow from a river and raise a temporary barrier using Crumble This is one of a series of resources produced in association with Fairfield Control Systems that are designed to allow learners to use the theme of waterways to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology and Engineering. This resource focusses on designing and making a programmable electronic system to control a flood barrier. This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by providing a partially completed template for producing the systems block diagram; pre-download the example program onto the Crumble microcontroller boards; and/or provide a diagram to aid with system assembly. As an extension students could design a mechanical system to convert the rotary motion from the motor to the movement of a barrier; update the program to take account of this mechanical movement (e.g. the time needed to move the barrier); and/or add light or sound outputs to the system to warn people when the barrier is moving. This activity is designed to take between 70-110 minutes. Tools/resources required Crumble controller board and USB download cable Three red crocodile clips and three black crocodile clips Three AA batteries and battery pack Crumble motor Bowl of water for testing To make a moisture sensor: Copper tape Card Sticky tape Scissors The engineering context The waterways (including their protection, maintenance and control) is an excellent context to explore opportunities that working in the engineering industry presents. For example, designing and making control systems that help the waterways to work more effectively. Electrical, electronic and control engineers need to have knowledge, understanding and skills associated with circuit design and assembly, and the programming of electronic control systems. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to design and make an electronic control system for a flood barrier; understand how block diagrams are used to represent systems; and be able to use programmable components to solve a real engineering problem. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Making a model of a hydraulic boat lift using syringes This is one of a series of resources produced in association with Fairfield Control Systems that are designed to allow learners to use the theme of waterways to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology, Engineering and Science. This resource is based on the Anderton boat lift and the use of hydraulic systems. The teacher will first discuss what is meant by a hydraulic system and how they are used in engineering applications such as cranes and brakes. The teacher will then demonstrate the steps shown in the presentation to make the model boat lift. Learners will then carry out the activity and produce their own models before showing their boat lift models to peers and asking what could be improved. This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by pre-cutting the templates and corrugated cardboard to size. An exemplar model could be used to illustrate what the final boat life should look like. Print out the handout for learners to cut out and use the templates. As an extension students could investigate how much the boat lift can lift. This activity is designed to take between 45-70 minutes to complete. Tools/resources required Corrugated cardboard sheets 10 ml syringes Cable ties (Size: 20 cm length) 3 mm clear plastic tube Water and measuring jugs Food dye Pencils Sticky tack Adhesive Masking tape, sticky tape or hot glue gun (optional) Craft knife and cutting mat (teacher only) The engineering context The waterways (including their protection, maintenance and control) is an excellent context to explore opportunities that working in the engineering industry presents. For example, constructing locks, building narrowboats or making and maintaining boat lifts. Engineers often make models of working systems to test how they function. For example, a crane designer will make models of different crane designs to see which structures can provide the best support and which designs can lift the heaviest object. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to know the difference between pneumatic and hydraulic systems; know that 3D shapes can be constructed using templates; and be able to make a model of a simple boat lift model using syringes. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Designing a new Royal carriage that is electrically powered Royal carriages have long been a part of history and tradition in the United Kingdom. Famous for the horses that draw them as well as their luxury velvet interiors and the fairytale that surrounds them. The carriages must be comfortable for travel as well as regal. They must accommodate the needs of the Royal family to be used for formal events as well as wedding transport. King Charles III is known for his commitment to environmental issues and passion for a greener world so could the new carriage be electrically powered? This is one of a series of resources that are designed to allow learners to use the theme of King Charles III’s coronation to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology and Engineering. This resource focusses on designing an electrically powered Royal carriage for the event. The teacher will first introduce the design brief and explain that the carriage must be electrically powered, show the King’s Cypher, reflect the history and traditions of the Royal family, include features to aid comfort and make use of modern, lightweight materials. Learners will then take time to design their carriage and (if possible) teachers can show how an electric motor can be powered using batteries and then charged using a solar panel. Use the handout for learners to sketch their ideas for the new Royal carriage making sure to annotate their design to show how it meets the design criteria. As an extension students could design a mechanical system to covert the rotary motion from the motor to the movement of the carriage and/or produce a functional scale model of their proposed design and test how well it works. Tools/resources required Pens, pencils and coloured pencils A4 or A3 paper 3 V motors Rechargeable AA batteries AA battery packs Red and black wires/crocodile clips AA solar battery charger The engineering context Engineers have a moral and ethical responsibility to ensure that their designs are sustainable and do not negatively impact on the environment. This includes using renewable energy wherever possible to power systems and devices. Electrical, electronic and control engineers need to have knowledge, understanding and skills associated with circuit assembly, including following wiring diagrams. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Create a stone garden display for the school entrance to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III In this activity learners will make use of the theme of the King’s coronation to design a rock garden in the style of a flag or other item to commemorate the event. They will consider the design brief for the criteria, use a template to produce a design on paper, consider the scale for the final display and produce the final display. The teacher will first explain what a commemorative stone garden or display is with suitable examples which learners will discuss to state what is good about each example and what could be done better. Learners will then discuss which images should be used, for example, a Union Jack flag or a crown. The teacher will then lead the learner through the stages of design, scaling up, making and installing their stone garden where the class will come together to assemble their display in the designated area at school. This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by supplying regular sized pebbles and cutting out the paper rocks to be the same size as these pebbles, then missing out the maths scaling part of the activity. To help, learners could also be provided with images for inspiration, e.g. flags, crowns, school entrance locations, etc. Use the handout for learners to cut out the 2D paper stones, sketch their design ideas onto them and assemble their stones into their garden design. As an extension students could create a border around their display incorporating flowers and plants and/or design a new flag to represent the whole of the United Kingdom. Tools/resources required Coloured paper – red, blue and white Scissors Glue sticks Alternative: coloured pencils or paints Paint (water based acrylic paint) Brushes and water to clean them Gloves and overalls Stones and small cobbles Paint suitable for outside use The engineering context All designers and engineers need to be able to produce ideas related to certain themes and follow a design brief. This ensures that the products they design will meet the needs of the end users, customers or clients. Using natural materials is becoming more common in the built environment. It is important for engineers to have a working knowledge of different natural materials and their potential applications. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to design and produce an attractive stone display to celebrate the King’s coronation; produce designs that meet a given brief; and be able to use measurements and scaling when designing. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

Design a throne for use by the new King which includes modern technologies During the coronation King Charles will sit on the throne. This is a ceremonial chair that is used by a monarch or ruler. Historically thrones have been very ornate, to emphasize the power of the person sitting in them. However, most thrones were produced before a lot of modern technologies were invented. This is one of a series of resources designed to allow learners to use the theme of the coronation of King Charles III to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology. This resource focusses on the design of a coronation throne for the new King which incorporates modern technologies. The teacher will first explain that learners are going to design a coronation throne for the new King that incorporates modern technologies. Discuss the design brief and design criteria with the learners to make sure that students understand. This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by specifying the technologies to be included into the throne, or by providing a feint template of a throne or chair that learners can draw over to create their design. Use the handout for learners to sketch their ideas for their new throne and make sure they annotate their design to ensure it meets the design criteria. As an extension students could incorporate multiple technologies into the design or consider other potential uses of the throne that they have designed. This activity is designed to fill one whole lesson and should take between 40-70 minutes to complete. Tools/resources required Projector/whiteboard Sketching equipment A4/A3 paper The engineering context As new technologies emerge engineers investigate how the technologies can be adapted and incorporated into existing products. This can allow products to function in a different way or to achieve different uses. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this free resource students will be able to communicate design ideas using sketches, notes and annotations in order to design a coronation throne that incorporates modern technologies. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Use vacuum forming to make chocolate egg moulds In this Easter STEM project students will learn about the vacuum forming process and its applications. They will learn how to use a vacuum forming machine to produce a mould that they can then use to cast a handmade chocolate Easter egg. This challenge is aimed at secondary school students and could be used as a main lesson activity to teach learners about the use of vacuum forming, or as part of a wider scheme of learning covering either manufacturing processes and techniques or the integration of different disciplines within Design and Technology. This is one of a set of free STEM resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology, Science and Mathematics. This resource focuses on using the vacuum forming process to create a mould for a chocolate Easter egg. Please note that this activity requires access to a workshop for vacuum forming and appropriate facilities for hygienic food preparation, such as a food technology room. In many school workshops there will only be one or two vacuum forming machines available for use. In this instance learners will need to take turns in using this equipment. They could be split into small groups to make this process less time consuming. This is a fun and engaging Easter STEM challenge and will take approximately 50-80 minutes to complete. Chocolate Easter Eggs Although chocolate was introduced to Europe in 1502, it was initially just made into drinks, like cocoa. Chocolate Easter eggs were first made in France and Germany in the 19th Century. The first chocolate egg in the UK was made in 1873 by J S Fry and Sons Limited. One of the challenges with making these eggs was to form their shape. Tools/resources required Half egg-shaped former Suitable material for forming, such as high impact polystyrene (HIP) Vacuum forming machine Stanley knife or other cutting tool suitable for trimming the edges of the formed plastic mould Chocolate for melting (either cooking chocolate or milk chocolate bars work well) The engineering context Engineers use vacuum forming for manufacturing a wide range of products, such as storage containers, children’s toys, baths, and food packaging. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this exercise students will have an understanding of the main stages of the vacuum forming process. They will also be able to use the vacuum forming process to create a mould for a chocolate Easter egg. Lastly, they will be able to cast a chocolate easter Egg from a vacuum formed model. Download the free activity sheets, along with a fun bonus crossword using the words from the activity to enhance learning. All activity sheets and supporting teacher notes, presentation and curriculum links are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

Designing and making a vehicle to transport an egg in a race In this Easter STEM activity students will design and make a car that can safely carry an egg in a racing event and compete against other designs. This challenge is aimed at secondary school students and could be used as a main lesson activity to teach learners about modelling and prototyping, or as part of a wider scheme of learning covering manufacturing processes and techniques. It could also be used as part of an introduction to aerodynamics. This is one of a set of free resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This resource focuses on designing and making a vehicle to transport an egg in a racing event. Download our free activity sheet to see an example of how an egg racer could be made. This could be made to assist the development of workable ideas. This could be used to guide lower ability learners or for learners who produce a design idea that would otherwise not be practical to make. The final vehicles need to be placed on a slight slope for the race. For example, this could be a natural slope, or a plank or board rested on the table. As an alternative to a direct race, the evaluation could be based on the time taken to go down the ramp (which could allow the integration of maths, for example to calculate the average velocity) or determining which vehicle continues furthest along the floor after coming down the ramp. Tools/resources required Card Straws Wooden dowels or skewers with sharp points removed Wheels (wood or card) or plastic bottle tops Card tubes Masking tape Glue Glue guns if available Scissors Rules or rulers for measuring The engineering context Engineers make models and prototypes to test ideas and see how they will work. For example, they will put a model of a car in a wind tunnel to see how aerodynamic the design is. This helps to make designs that use the minimum amount of fuel. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this fun school project students will be able to design and make a vehicle to transport an egg in a race and they will have an understanding of what is mean by ‘aerodynamics’. Download the free Make a Vehicle for an Egg Race activity sheets, including a bonus crossword using the words from the activity to enhance learning. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation

A challenge to protect an egg from breaking after it is dropped from height. In this fun STEM egg drop challenge students will use, make, and assemble a protective structure to save an egg from breaking. This activity is aimed at secondary school students and could be used as a main lesson activity, to teach learners about the strength of structural forms. It could also be used as one of several activities within a wider scheme of learning focusing on gravity. The Egg Drop Challenge is a popular and versatile Easter STEM challenge. It is an exciting and engaging way for children to develop their creative thinking and problem-solving skills. This STEM challenge is one of a series of free resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology and Engineering. This resource focuses on the egg drop challenge. Sheets of paper are used to make a protective structure to prevent an egg being broken when dropped from height. Once the egg protection frame has been built learners will test their structures by dropping the egg first from 0.5m, then 1m. If your egg survives this fall, how high do you think an egg can be dropped from without breaking? How could you improve your design to make it more effective? If using raw eggs, it is recommended that plastic covering is used on the floor and suitable hand washing facilities are available. One option is to use boiled eggs as these will reduce the mess but still crack on impact. This activity will take approximately 60-90 minutes. Tools/resources required Projector/whiteboard Raw eggs/Boiled eggs Scissors Glue sticks Paper Tissue paper Sticky tape String Plastic bags The engineering context Understanding how structures are used to protect products is an important part of the new GCSE courses in Design and Technology and Engineering. Structures are used to protect many products, ranging from eggs to supplies dropped from aircraft during emergencies. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this exercise students will know that gravity is a pulling force and they will be able to make a structure to protect an egg dropped from a height. Download the free Egg Drop Challenge activity sheets, including a bonus crossword using the words used in the activity to enhance learning. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

A graphics project that makes an Easter box diorama In this Easter engineering activity for secondary school students’, learners will use net templates to make card parts to allow them to assemble an Easter box diorama. This is a lesson plan for an engaging Easter box diorama project. This could be used as a main lesson activity, to teach learners how to use nets to make useable objects. It could also be used as one of several activities within a wider scheme of learning focussing on the use of maths to understand the use of nets. Alternatively, it can be used as a part of a wider group of resources that use the Easter theme to build knowledge and skills in Design and Technology. This graphics project is one of a series of free resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology and Mathematics. This resources focusses on the making of Easter boxes using folded card. Nets are used for the box and egg designs. Nets are important as they allow 3D objects to be made when folded. Download the free activity sheet for more detailed instructions and for optional extension work. Also included is a fun bonus wordsearch with words used in the activity to enhance learning. This exercise will take approximately 50 – 80 minutes. Tools/resources required Projector/whiteboard Scissors Glue sticks Card Rulers The engineering context Understanding how nets are used is considered in the making of products and is an important part of the new GCSE courses in Design and Technology and Engineering. Engineers are required to use mathematics knowledge and skills regularly as part of their everyday job. It is therefore essential that they are able to use nets to allow them to make scale models of buildings and other structures. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this fun graphic design project students will know how nets are used to make Easter boxes. They will also be able to fold and glue parts together to make an Easter diorama box. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Develop an understanding of levers and build a popsicle stick catapult from craft sticks with this free STEM lesson plan. This is an exciting and engaging way to learn about physics and engineering. With the right materials, build a simple yet effective catapult capable of launching chocolate eggs up into the air! This lesson plan is perfect for KS3 students and can be used as a fun one-off main activity to introduce levers. This is one of a set of resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology, Mathematics and Science. This resource involves making a simple catapult which works as a lever to propel a chocolate or mini egg. This activity will take approximately 50 – 70 minutes to complete. Also included is a fun crossword using words from the activity to promote sticking learning. Tools/resources required Craft sticks (at least 7 per learner) Small elastic bands (at least 7 per learner, plus spares) A teaspoon (metal or plastic) Chocolate mini eggs (or similar) For the extension activity: Pencils (or similar, such as dowel rods) Elastic bands The engineering context Levers are one of the simplest machines and are used in many applications. These include pliers, scissors, brake pedals and wheels and axles. The principles of levers are also used in many applications when designing sports equipment, such as cricket bats, golf clubs and hockey sticks. Suggested learning outcomes After completing this Easter themed engineering resource students will be able to describe the three classes of lever and they will be able to make a structure. Download the free Build a popsicle stick catapult activity sheet! All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation

Learn how to make papier mâché Easter eggs with balloons in this fun STEM activity for kids In this fun Easter STEM activity for kids, students will learn how to use papier mâché and a balloon to make and decorate an Easter egg that they can use as part of their celebrations. This activity is aimed at primary school students and could be used as a main lesson activity to teach learners about making techniques, design creativity and the use of colour, or part of a wider scheme of learning covering graphics-based techniques. There are also potential curriculum links with the Art department and STEAM based activities. This is one of a set of resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology and Mathematics. This resource focuses on making and decorating a papier mâché Easter egg with different coloured paints. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your very own papier mâché Easter egg. Download our free activity sheet for more detailed instructions, teachers notes and optional extension work. Also included is a fun bonus maze activity. Tools/resources required A balloon Newspaper and white paper Wallpaper paste (flour and water or PVA glue can be used instead) A small plastic pot Scissors Different coloured paints and other materials for decorating, such as foam letters and card borders Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this Easter STEM challenge learners will be able to use papier mâché and a balloon to make an Easter egg model. They will also be able to use colour to decorate a papier mâché based egg and they will be able to show creativity when designing and making products. The engineering context Engineers make product models to test ideas and see how they will work. Papier mâché can be used to make 3D models. Its other applications include masks for the theatre, structures for carnival floats and even disposable fuel tanks for aircrafts! All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Learn about 3D structures and make a bunny pop up card in this fun Easter STEM activity for kids In this fun STEM activity for kids, students will learn about graphic products and use templates to help them cut out the parts for a homemade Easter card. This activity is aimed at primary school children and could be used as a main lesson activity, to teach learners about the use of templates. This is one of a set of resources designed to allow students to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology and Mathematics. This resource focuses on making a graphics project, in this case an Easter pop-up bunny card. The teacher will first print the activity sheet, which can be downloaded below, onto thin card and distribute to the learners. Learners can then follow these steps to make their own homemade Easter bunny pop-up card. Once learners have completed each step for themselves, the teacher can explain why templates are used to make objects and how separate parts are used to make a larger structure. Learners will share their completed Easter pop-up cards with the class. What do you think went well? What could be improved? This activity will take approximately 50 – 80 minutes to complete. Tools/resources required Glue sticks Card (various colours) Scissors Coloured paper The engineering context Engineers use nets and card to allow them to make scale 3D models of buildings and other structures, as well as packaging for products. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this Easter STEM challenge learners will be able to make and assemble an Easter pop-up card from separate parts. Download the free Make an amazing Easter pop up card activity sheet. Also included is a bonus wordsearch to enhance sticky learning. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Making structures from card and assembling these into baskets In this hands-on STEM activity for kids, students will learn about 3D structures within a graphics projects. The project will involve using templates to help them cut out the parts for an Easter bunny basket. This fun exercise is aimed at primary school children and could be used as a main lesson activity, to teach learners about simple structures made from separate parts. This is one of a set of free resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology and Mathematics. This resource focuses on building an Easter bunny-shaped basket. The teacher will first print the activity sheet, which can be downloaded below, onto thin card and distribute to the learners. Learners can then follow these steps to build their own DIY Easter bunny basket. Once learners have completed each step for themselves, the teacher can explain how nets are used to make objects and how separate parts are used to make a larger structure. Learners will share their completed bunny baskets with the class. What do you think went well? What could be improved? This activity will take approximately 50 – 80 minutes to complete. Tools/resources required Glue sticks Card Scissors Cotton wool (for the bunny tails) The engineering context Engineers use nets and card to allow them to make scale 3D models of buildings and other structures, as well as packaging for products. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this STEM challenge learners will be able to understand how structures are made using separate parts and they will be able to make and assemble a bunny basket structure from card parts. Download the free Build an Easter Bunny Basket activity sheet below! Also includes a bonus wordsearch to enhance sticky learning. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Making structures from card strips and assembling these into animal forms In this fun Easter themed STEM activity for kids, students will learn about 3D structures within a graphical project. Learners will build a bunny using card strips from a template. This free resource, aimed at primary school children, could be used as a main lesson activity, to teach learners about simple structures made from separate parts. This is one of a set of resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology and Mathematics. This resource focuses on building a card structure, to make a bunny. The teacher will first print the free activity sheet, which can be found below, onto thin card and distribute to the learners. Learners can then follow this step-by-step guide to build their own DIY Easter bunny. If time allows learners could decorate their Easter bunnies. They will then share their completed bunnies with the class. This activity will take approximately 50 – 80 minutes. Tools/resources required Build a bunny handout Scissors Glue Colouring pencils/pens (optional to colour in your bunny before assembly) The engineering context Engineers use nets and card to allow them to make scaled 3D models of buildings and other structures, as well as packaging for products. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this STEM challenge learners will be able to understand how structures are made using separate parts and they will be able to make and assemble a bunny structure from card strips. Download the free Build a bunny activity sheet below! Also includes a bonus worksearch to enhance sticky learning. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.

Making an Easter bunny puppet with moving arms and legs In this activity students will learn about simple mechanisms using linkages made from paper products. Learners will have an opportunity to use a template to help them cut out the parts for a cardboard Easter bouncing bunny. This fun STEM challenge aimed at primary school children could be used as a main lesson activity, to teach learners about linkages. This is one of a set of resources designed to allow learners to use Easter themes to develop their knowledge and skills in Design and Technology and Mathematics. This resource focuses on building a card structure, which uses linkages to make the limbs of a bunny move. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own Easter bouncing bunny. Learners will complete each step for themselves. Once everyone has made their bouncing bunny, the teacher will discuss the results of the activity with learners. The teacher will also explain how linkages are used to make objects move. Download the free activity sheet for more detailed instructions, teachers notes and for optional extension work. Also includes a fun bonus activity to enhance sticky learning. This exercise will take approximately 50 – 80 minutes. Tools/resources required Glue sticks Card or cardboard Scissors String Brass fasteners Pencils Erasers/sticky tack Elastic bands The engineering context Engineers must have a good understanding of mechanisms. Mechanisms are used in every machine that has moving parts, from trains, cars, and washing machines to a space rocket. Suggested learning outcomes By the end of this activity students should be able to understand how to use a linkage to create movement and they will be able to make and assemble a bouncing bunny with moving arms and legs. All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs. The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.