Key Stage 3

A Dancing Monkey

A Suggested Year 8 Project

RA Moffatt WELB

A Dancing Monkey

A Suggested Year 8 Project

A Mechanical Toy Design

A Mechanical Toy Design

Learning Opportunities:

To introduce pupils to basic mechanisms / mechanical movement such as cams, cranks, linkages etc.

To develop basic design and research skills;

To develop manufacturing skills through a range of workshop processes.

Activity Description:

Theory: The pupils study mechanisms for approximately 3 x 35min periods;

Manufacture: To manufacture a number of the models parts from set working drawings;

Applied Design: To design and manufacture the body of the toy. Use templates / jigs where necessary.

A Mechanical Toy Monkey

Design Opportunities:

a) Show using concept sketches two alternative designs for the monkey’s body

b) Explain using graphics the mechanical solution to making thetoy move when the crank is rotated. Include notes / annotation.

c) Show how adjustments may be made to the mechanismto make the monkey move higher?

d) Design a base for the mechanical monkey from acrylic sheet measuring ---- x ------

e) Show examples of where an interference-fit and a clearance-fitis used in this project?

f) Name suitable materials for the base and body of this toydesign?

g) State a suitable protective finish for this project?