Stop Frame Motion

Learning Intentions

• Understand the basic concepts of stop frame animation and how motion is created through sequential images.
• Develop creativity by designing and making upcycled props for animation.
• Collaborate effectively in small groups to produce a short stop frame animation.
• Explore and apply basic technical skills using a simple animation app or digital camera.

Success Criteria

• Students can explain what stop frame animation is and how it works.
• Students create original props from recycled/upcycled materials.
• Each group produces a short stop frame animation sequence demonstrating smooth motion.
• Students show teamwork by sharing responsibilities and ideas during the activity.

Curriculum Links

Technology

• Nature of Technology - Characteristics of Technological Outcomes: Students will develop knowledge and skills to create technological outcomes that meet a purpose (Technological Practice).
• Technological Practice: Develop planning and management skills by working collaboratively to create stop motion animation.
• Technological Knowledge: Understand basic motion principles involved in animation.
• Technological Outcomes: Produce a digital stop frame animation using upcycled materials as props.

Key Competencies

• Thinking: Planning and developing animations, problem solving when creating motion.
• Using Language, Symbols, and Text: Communicating ideas visually through animation.
• Managing Self: Organising materials and working cooperatively in groups.
• Relating to Others: Collaboration and respecting others’ contributions.
• Participating and Contributing: Communicating and sharing learning progress.

Materials Needed

• Various upcycled/recycled items (e.g., bottle caps, cardboard scraps, fabric pieces, plastic containers, string)
• Digital tablets or simple stop motion apps installed on classroom devices
• Tripods or stable surfaces for holding cameras/tablets steady
• Printable storyboard templates
• Markers, tape, glue, scissors
• Whiteboard or large paper for instruction and demonstration

Lesson Activities

1. Introduction & Engagement (10 minutes)

• Begin with a brief discussion: ask students if they know how cartoons or animations move. Explain that stop frame animation is a way of making things appear to move by taking many photos where objects are moved slightly each time.
• Show a very short example of stop frame animation (either a simple video or a quick animation of a common object moving).
• Explain the day’s focus: making a short stop frame animation using recycled materials as their props.

2. Explore & Plan (10 minutes)

• In groups of 4-5, students brainstorm ideas for their animation story or motion. Encourage simple story ideas or motion sequences (e.g., a ball bouncing, a character walking, or a flower blooming).
• Use storyboard templates to sketch out the sequence of motions they plan to animate (4-6 frames).
• Discuss which recycled materials they will use to make props.

3. Make & Create Props (15 minutes)

• Students create simple props using the upcycled materials provided. Emphasise creativity and resourcefulness — no prop has to be perfect!
• Teacher circulates to support and encourage safe use of materials and problem-solving.

4. Animate & Capture (20 minutes)

• Demonstrate how to set up the device on a tripod/steady surface and take photos frame by frame moving props slightly each time.
• Each group takes turns animating and capturing images, ensuring they follow their storyboard sequence.
• Teacher assists with technical setup and helps groups troubleshoot.

5. Share & Reflect (5 minutes)

• Groups quickly share their animations with the class, either by projecting or on tablets.
• Facilitate a reflection discussion: What worked well? What was challenging? How did their teamwork help?
• Reinforce key learnings about motion and collaboration.

Assessment Ideas

• Formative: Observe students’ engagement during brainstorming and prop-making, noting creativity and collaboration.
• Summative: Review the final stop frame animation videos for evidence of sequential motion, creativity in prop use, and adherence to storyboard plans.
• Self-Assessment: Students complete a short reflection about what they learned about stop frame animation and recycling materials.
• Peer Assessment: Groups provide positive feedback on another group’s animation focusing on creativity and teamwork.

Differentiation Strategies

• For learners needing extra support: Provide more structured storyboard templates with guiding questions. Allow use of fewer frames for simpler sequences. Pair with a buddy for technical tasks.
• For higher achievers: Challenge them to add sound effects or simple titles using app features. Encourage more complex storylines or use more frames for smoother motion.
• For English Language Learners: Use visual instructions and demonstrations, encourage use of drawings during planning, and allow oral rather than written reflections.

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This lesson plan provides a hands-on, collaborative learning experience that integrates key aspects of the New Zealand Curriculum technology strand while developing creativity and understanding of motion through stop frame animation using sustainable materials.