---
title: "Modelling with Sketches"
description: "Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/modelling-with-sketches-mt_hi8cVycbwn
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/modelling-with-sketches-mt_hi8cVycbwn.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Modelling with Sketches

Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem

Subject: Science · Area: Scientific Inquiry · Ages 5 to 8
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/modelling-with-sketches-mt_hi8cVycbwn

## Ready when they can

- Create a sketch, drawing, or physical model of a design solution
- Explain how the shape or structure of the design helps solve the problem
- Relate the model to the real-world problem it addresses

## Lesson: Draw your idea

You have asked questions about the world. When you want to make something, ask what it needs to do. A sketch is a drawing of your idea. Show the parts and where they go. A physical model is something you build to show or test the idea.

**Example.** Mia wants her toy car to roll smoothly. She draws round wheels and shows where they go. A circle has no corners. A round wheel can roll along a flat surface without the corner bumps of a square wheel.

*(drawing: This roof outline is a triangle, a shape with three straight sides. Its two upper sides slope down, giving rain a path off the roof.)*

A dome umbrella curves over a person and guides rain down its sides. A ramp has one end higher than the other. A toy car can roll down the slope. A sheet lying flat has no downhill slope.

Explain how each part helps with the job. A sketch shows your plan, but it cannot prove the finished thing will work. Build a model and test it. If the test shows a problem, change a part and test again.

**Recap.** Show your idea in a sketch or model. Explain how its parts help with the job. Test a model to find out how it works.

## Practice

8 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Asking scientific questions](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/asking-scientific-questions-mt_XirhnAB6Ye)

## Opens up

- [Building shade from the sun](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/building-shade-from-the-sun-mt_2agkUcdah9)
- [Comparing Design Solutions](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/comparing-design-solutions-mt_nNYo5A-7Bl)