Year 7 3D Design

Unit Content

Unit 1

Blockbot

In this unit, students learn to create a 'blockbot' character in wood. They learn to draw inspiration from the work of others, to create a range of ideas in their sketchbooks, to select and refine their preferred idea, and to create a final design. They also learn a wide range of woodworking skills, safely employing appropriate tools and techniques.

Key knowledge developed:

  • Understanding the principles that underpin a complete design project
  • Understanding the conventions of orthographic design
  • Knowing about the work of relevant designers

Key skills developed:

  • How to produce a high-quality sketchbook page
  • How to render and draw with accuracy
  • How to annotate a design using the in-house conventions
  • How to use a wide range of hand tools and machines safely

Assessment: Formative and summative assessment of learning are both organised around project-specific criteria, which are presented as a series of student-friendly checklists. Students receive regular feedback based on these checklists and they are encouraged to self-assess against them at every stage of the design process.

Unit 2 

Marble run

In this skills-focused unit, students employ a range of making techniques to create their own marble puzzle games. They learn a variety of skills including measuring, marking out, securing and sawing wood. Students also develop their knowledge of finishing techniques such as sanding, oiling and painting.

Key knowledge developed:

  • Knowing the conventions and rules of high-quality puzzle games
  • Knowing key vocabulary associated with woodworking skills

Key skills developed:

  • How to measure, mark-out, secure and saw wood
  • How to employ finishing techniques such as sanding, oiling and painting
  • How to drill wood and plastic safely

Assessment: Formative and summative assessment of learning are both organised around project-specific criteria, which are presented as a series of student-friendly checklists. Students receive regular feedback based on these checklists and they are encouraged to self-assess against them at every stage of the design process.