This half term in Design and Technology, Year 3 have been learning all about pneumatic systems. Pneumatic means using air to make something move. For example, when you squeeze a balloon or pump and the air inside pushes to make a part move or lift. We explored how air pressure can help objects open, close or pop up!

After learning how pneumatics work, we designed and made our very own pneumatic toys aimed at 5‑year‑olds. And the best part? They all had moving mouths!

Using egg boxes, shoe boxes, recycled cardboard and lots of imagination, the children worked independently or with a partner to bring their ideas to life. Our classroom turned into a workshop full of:

• Sharks with snapping jaws
• Capybaras with big smiles
• Butterflies with fluttery mouths
• Frogs ready to catch flies
• And many more exciting creatures!

To make the mouths move, we used balloons. When the balloon is inflated, the air pressure makes the toy’s mouth open wide, much to everyone’s amusement!

Once our toys were finished, we carried out some real-life market research by visiting the children in Year 1 and Year 2. We demonstrated how our pneumatic toys worked and asked them what they thought. The KS1 children loved the bright colours and creative designs, and they thought it was hilarious when the mouths suddenly popped open!

A huge well done to all our talented Year 3 designers for their creativity, teamwork and problem‑solving. We are so proud of you!