This term, our Prep students have been exploring the exciting world of Design Technologies through our Australian Curriculum unit, 'What’s in My Toybox?'
Throughout the unit, students discovered that the toys and objects we use every day are carefully designed by people for a purpose. They explored a wide range of materials including plastic, wood, metal, fabric, glass, paper and rubber, learning that different materials are chosen because they have different properties and uses. Students also investigated how toys can move in different ways, including rolling, bouncing, sliding, twisting and flying.
As part of their learning, students explored questions such as:
- What materials are toys made from?
- Why are some toys soft while others are hard?
- How do toys move?
- Why do designers choose certain materials for different toys?
Through hands-on activities, investigations, discussions and experiments, students learnt that an object’s size, shape and material can affect the way it moves. They also discovered that good design involves creativity, problem-solving and careful decision-making.
One of the highlights of the unit was our 'Design a Toy' project. Students used their knowledge of materials and movement to create imaginative toy designs of their own. We saw an incredible variety of ideas including flying unicorns, transforming submarines, dragons, monster trucks, dolls, fire trucks, bomber planes and many more!
More recently, students were introduced to a simple design process used by designers and engineers: Imagine → Draw → Get Feedback → Improve.
Students first imagined a solution, then drew and labelled their toy design. They shared their ideas with classmates and listened to feedback about what others liked and what could be improved. Finally, they refined their designs by making changes and adding new features. It was wonderful to see students thoughtfully responding to feedback and developing even stronger designs. Many students proudly commented that their final toy was much better than their original idea!
To make the experience even more exciting, a selection of student designs from each class were entered into an AI image generator to imagine what the toys might look like if they were professionally manufactured in a factory. Students were amazed to see their drawings transformed into realistic toy products complete with materials, moving parts and packaging. The activity helped students see the connection between an initial idea and a finished product.
Throughout the unit, students were reminded that God is the ultimate designer and creator. As they explored materials, movement and design, they reflected on the creativity and wisdom God has displayed in His creation and considered how the gifts He has given us can be used to create things that help and bring joy to others.
We are incredibly proud of the imagination, creativity and enthusiasm our Prep students demonstrated throughout this learning journey.