Roman Britain / Learning resources / Models to make
Models to make · Free printable
Build a paper cargo boat
Fold a small cargo-boat hull and add a paper mast and sail for a tabletop voyage.
Suggested ages 7+ with adult help · Allow 45–75 minutes · 3 A4 pages
Print your template and guide
The first two pages contain the templates; the final page has materials, making instructions and discussion ideas. Free for home and classroom use. Print single-sided in black and white. Print folding templates at actual size.
You will need
Two A4 sheets of light card, scissors, pencils and tape.
Make it step by step
Colour the hull net on page 1 and cut only its outer cross-shaped outline. Fold the four walls up and tape the four vertical corners from outside.
Cut the mast on page 2. Cut its short central slit only as far as the first horizontal dashed line.
Fold the mast lengthways into an L shape. Fold the two foot tabs in opposite directions and tape them to the hull floor.
Cut the sail and tape it to the top of the mast. Add drawn cargo labels. Keep the paper boat dry.
Tips and questions
The rectangular hull floor has four walls of equal height. The two mast feet help it stand on the floor. Use light card and small pieces of tape to keep the top light.
Connect it with Roman Britain
Ships connected Britain with wider trade networks. This box-shaped paper hull simplifies boat construction for a craft project and is not a historical ship plan.
Suggested ages are a guide. Read the instructions together and adapt the practical work to your learners. Ask an adult to help with cutting.
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Romans in Britain · Learning resources