Arckit - Year 5 Design Challenge

by Lisa McFarlane | Senior Primary Teacher at Kardinia International College

As part of our How the World Works unit in the PYP, students explored the inquiry question about “The use of energy and how it drives sustainability and innovation when designing solutions.” To launch this learning, students engaged in a hands-on provocation using Kardinia’s set of Arckit building kits, which allowed them to design and construct eco-buildings as a launching pad for further inquiry. This experience, linked to UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), provided a powerful and engaging entry point into sustainable design.

The Arckit provocation immediately captured student interest by moving learning beyond discussion and into action. Students were challenged to consider how a building could be powered sustainably, applying their prior knowledge about energy sources and beginning to think like designers. As they constructed their models, students were encouraged to reflect on key questions such as What energy source are we using? How is our building sustainable? This prompted meaningful connections between abstract concepts and real-world applications.

A key feature of the task was its collaborative “relay” format. Each group contributed to a shared design before leaving detailed handover notes for the next group. This process required students to communicate their thinking clearly and purposefully, reinforcing the idea that designs are refined over time through collaboration and feedback. Students developed a deeper appreciation for the design cycle, recognising that strong ideas evolve, and benefit from multiple perspectives and reflection.

Kardinia Design Cycle

The hands-on nature of Arckit also supported diverse learners by making complex ideas visible and accessible. Concepts such as energy efficiency, building orientation, and sustainable materials became tangible, as students experimented with different design features. This active engagement increased motivation and encouraged students to take ownership of their learning, as they saw their ideas come to life.

Importantly, the provocation laid a strong foundation for the next stage of the inquiry - the research phase - where students will investigate various aspects of sustainable design. Armed with their Arckit experience, students will be better equipped to ask thoughtful questions and make informed decisions, as they move through the design cycle to create their own sustainable buildings. 

Overall, Arckit enhanced both student understanding and engagement by providing a practical, collaborative, and thought-provoking learning experience, empowering students to think critically about how energy choices shape a more sustainable future.

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