KS1 Building Houses Activities

Build, Design, and Explore the World of Houses

Inspire Key Stage 1 children to become architects and builders with six creative, hands-on activities that explore materials, structures, and design. This comprehensive cross-curricular resource pack combines design & technology, science, mathematics, art, and English to develop practical skills, problem-solving, and understanding of the built environment—perfectly aligned to the National Curriculum.

What's Included:

• House Materials Investigation – Explore brick, wood, stone, and other building materials to understand their properties and uses
• Measuring Around My House – Develop measurement skills by recording lengths, heights, and dimensions in real contexts
• Material Rubbings – Discover textures and patterns in building materials through art and sensory exploration
• Design And Build A Cardboard House – Create 3D structures using cardboard, developing cutting, joining, and construction skills
• Design And Build A House Based On The Three Little Pigs – Apply story knowledge to test which materials make the strongest structures
• Design And Build A House From Food – Creative STEM challenge using edible materials to explore design and engineering

Learning Outcomes:

Children will identify and compare building materials, develop design thinking and practical making skills, and understand how structures are built. Activities build measurement skills, scientific investigation, and creative problem-solving while meeting KS1 Design & Technology objectives with cross-curricular links to Science (materials), Mathematics (measurement), English (The Three Little Pigs), and Art & Design.

Why Teachers Love This Resource:

Ready-to-teach activities bring design & technology to life with engaging, hands-on making tasks that children love. Minimal preparation required using everyday materials like cardboard and food. Perfect for developing practical skills, encouraging creativity, and introducing engineering concepts through play-based learning. Ideal for mixed-ability teaching with opportunities for differentiation and extension.