The main CD-ROM works within Adobe Acrobat Reader (PDF format). It provides a useful reference for pupils to explore simple mechanical engineering by making automata and mechanical toys. It is also a fantastic "ideas" and "information" resource for D&T KS3 & 4 pupils. The inclusion of KS2 project work provides both a revision guide as well as exciting alternatives for all abilities, including SEN students, to produce work in a combination of resistant and non resistant materials. This will also prove helpful to students who have poor making skills.
Generating ideas and being creative is not always an easy task, there are over 30 examples of automata that the students can see working and adapt, or use as the basis for their own work. This will provide a "kick start" in the initial design stage which is usually the first stumbling block.
The CD-ROM enables students to search, at their own pace, through a range of mechanisms and their application to automata and mechanical toys. Clear and simple text will explain both design and function with video demonstrations bringing the examples to life. Text and images can be copied and pasted for use in reference folders providing evidence of research. The section on design looks at evaluating the "client's" needs and the processes of design from start to finish, including evaluation procedures. Two examples are used to demonstrate this in practical terms.
Included is a series of 11 videos explaining the most common mechanisms such as cams, gears, and cranks, showing examples of their use in everyday objects, encouraging pupils to find and observe examples in their own homes and school etc.
There is also a vocabulary section explaining, in simple language, the terminology used to describe the movements and processes found in mechanical engineering.
The other CD-ROM comes with an installation guide (which is extremely simple) as well as a training video explaining how to navigate the software. It is recommended this is watched before the main CD-ROM in order to enhance the enjoyment of the software.
Most schools already use copies of our books in D&T, this new cross over to CD-ROM will prove equally as stimulating and rewarding for your pupils.

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Who is this resource for;

KS3 & KS4 D&T students and teachers; To help with QCA assignments involving, mechanical control systems, mechanisms, mechanical toys, and automata.

KS2 D&T teachers; Covering QCA units 3C, 5C & 6C. Pupils will find the videos very interesting but the text may be too technical for them. We Suggest they use the CDrom
" All about Mechanisms, Movement and Mechanical Toys" which you can find on the web site.

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