Investigating how children use language as a tool for thinking in design and technology at Key Stage 2

Design and technology has been acknowledged as being rich in its potential for developing language (DATA, 1999). Language can be used for a variety of purposes that have real meaning for children involved in design and technology, for example making suggestions, obtaining resources, negotiating with others, reflecting and planning. This paper explores one important aspect of children’s language use in design and technology: the use of language as a tool for thinking. It draws upon evidence of language gathered as part of an ongoing research project that is using a case study approach to explore children’s use of language within design and technology at Key Stage 2 (pupils aged 7-11).