Inspiring Innovation – Intellectual Property in Design

Ages 11 to 16

This free resource has been developed with the Intellectual Property Office to help Key Stage 3 and 4 teachers and students understand the importance of intellectual property in product design.

It includes five PowerPoint classroom presentations and supporting materials that schools can use and adapt. Students develop innovative product ideas using smart and modern materials, while exploring how intellectual property can protect their work.

The resource also includes two videos and a presentation for delivering a business day. During the session, students develop and present their ideas before discovering what can happen when a design is copied or used without the appropriate protection.

Activities cover:

• Developing original design ideas
• Researching existing products and patents
• Designing and making a prototype
• Registering a design and applying for a patent
• Avoiding infringement of existing patents and copyright
• Protecting ideas from being copied
• Branding, logos, slogans, product placement and distinctive packaging
• Bringing a product to market

The materials also contain activities exploring smart materials, which can be delivered independently of the complete business day.

The downloadable resource includes five PowerPoint lessons, a business day presentation, worksheets and teacher notes.