Set building

So you’ve created your characters, now it’s time to give them a home. Using recycled packaging is an inexpensive way to build a set. Repurposing materials encourages debate, conversation and collaboration, as students are required to think about each item in a way that is separate from its original use.

As with character creation, you might find it useful to have the following materials available or encourage pupils to find the items at home.

Set building using recycled materials

• Shoe box

• Cardboard packaging (e.g. cereal boxes, tea bag boxes)

• Egg cartons

• Plastic bottles

• Tetra packs

• Cardboard tubes

• Yoghurt pots or similar

• PVA glue

• Coloured paper/card

• Poster paint (optional).

If students are able to work together to make a set, they should form a team and draw upon their teamworking skills very early on in the session. If remote learning is taking place, students could share photos of their progress in their set design with the rest of the group to encourage a sense of cohesion. We’ve also attached some cut-outs for your ‘Shoebox Set Design’, which contains pre-designed characters and other useful items that could be useful on your set.

Have a go at creating a set for your animation and add comments below on your ideas, intentions and any set building tips.

Please do share your ideas on our Padlet wall.