Design a futuristic backpack

In this KS2 teaching resource activity learners will make use of the theme of new and future technologies to design a futuristic backpack. They will discuss the purpose of backpacks and why they are used. They will then produce a labelled sketch of their design idea to meet the given design brief and criteria.

This KS2 classroom activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach about designing textile and graphics-based products in context, or the use of new technologies within designs. It could also be used as part of wider scheme of learning focussed on the design process.

We’ve created this design teaching resource activity to support the delivery of key topics within design & technology (D&T) and engineering.

Activity: Designing a futuristic backpack

Learners will be introduced to the purpose of backpacks and how they are used across a wide range of different people. Learners will then sketch and label their design idea for a backpack of the future. Learners can self or peer-assess their design work suggesting any improvements that could be made.

Tools/supplies needed:

Resources required:

• Pens, pencils and coloured pencils
• A3 or A4 paper

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to design a futuristic backpack

Brief - Design your dream backpack of the future.

Criteria - Your design must include a way of comfortably wearing the backpack on the back, spaces to carry different items, colours that show your personality and clever STEM gadgets and special tech that allow you to do incredible things. 

Considerations –

Originality: How original is your idea?

Feasibility: How feasible is it that your design can be turned into a real-life prototype?

Creativity: How creative is your idea?

Engineering: What engineering processes have you used in your design?

Examples - Entries from the IET backpack to the future competition

Possible extension

• Make a prototype or model of your backpack design
• Design a backpack for doctors or paramedics to carry their medical equipment
• Design a backpack for your favourite sports star

The Engineering Context

Engineers need to understand how materials and new technologies could be used to produce improved future product designs. For example, how sustainable materials, materials with improved properties or renewable energy could be used in backpack design in the future.

Suggested learning outcomes

This resource combines design and technology with engineering with the aim that the learners will be able to understand the purpose and different uses of backpacks and be able to design the backpack of the future.

Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources

All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

You can download our step-by-step instructions below as either a classroom lesson plan or PowerPoint presentation.

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