Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 1

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Define manufactured boards and explain their significance.
• Identify and describe different types of manufactured boards.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of manufactured boards compared to solid wood.
• Analyze the production processes of these boards.

Lesson summary

In Ghana, from the beautiful traditional carved stools made of solid Odum wood to the modern, sleek kitchen cabinets we see in new homes in Accra and Kumasi, wood is a vital material. For centuries, we have relied on "solid wood" – timber cut directly from trees like Mahogany, Sapele, and Wawa. However, as our population grows and our forests face pressure, the woodwork industry has evolved. We now have "manufactured boards," which are man-made wood products. Understanding the difference between these two types of materials is crucial for any student of technology, future carpenter, architect, or even a homeowner wanting to make smart choices.

Lesson notes

2.1 What is Solid Wood?

Solid wood is natural lumber that is milled directly from a felled tree. There are no adhesives or layers involved. The piece of wood is a whole, solid block of timber from top to bottom. Examples of Ghanaian Timbers: Odum (Iroko), Wawa (Obeche), Sapele, Mahogany, Emire. Key Characteristics: Has a natural, beautiful grain pattern. Each piece is unique. Very strong and durable. Can be repaired (sanded down and refinished). It is prone to warping (bending), twisting, and splitting as it reacts to changes in humidity and temperature. Limited by the size of the tree it came from. 2.2 What are Manufactured Boards?

Manufactured boards, also known as engineered wood or composite wood, are man-made products created by binding or fixing strands, particles, fibres, or veneers of wood together with adhesives to form large, flat sheets. The Basic Idea: Instead of using one big piece of wood, manufactured boards use smaller pieces of wood (sometimes even waste like sawdust) and glue them together under heat and pressure. 2.3 Common Types of Manufactured Boards

Here are some of the most common types you will find in Ghanaian workshops and hardware stores:

Evaluation guide

• Discuss the advantages of manufactured boards over solid wood.
• Critical Thinking and Talk for Learning Approaches: Guide learners through whole class
• session to brainstorm the meaning of manufactured boards (Engineered wood) with open- mindedness
• Group work/Collaborative Learning