MATERIALS AND ARTEFACT PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK IINDUSTRY IN GHANA
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Subject: Applied Technology
Class: SHS 2
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 10
Grade code: 2.4.2.LI.4
Strand code: 4
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 2.4.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.4.2.LI.4
Theme: WOOD TECHNOLOGY
Subtheme: MATERIALS AND ARTEFACT PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK IINDUSTRY IN GHANA
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This lesson sequence focuses on the practical journey from an idea to a finished wooden product. In Ghana, the woodwork and furniture industry is a vital part of our economy, from the skilled artisans in Kokompe (Accra) and Anloga (Kumasi) to modern furniture companies. This lesson provides the foundational skills for this industry. We will learn how to translate a design on paper (a working drawing) into a physical object (a model or prototype). This process involves careful planning, precise measurement, safe tool use, and an understanding of materials. Mastering this process is the first step towards creating beautiful, functional, and valuable wooden artefacts.
Concept 1: The Production Pathway: From Idea to Artefact Creating any product in woodwork follows a structured process. This ensures quality, reduces waste, and saves time.
Flowchart of the Production Process: Situation/Brief → Idea Generation (Sketches) → Design Development → Working Drawings → Material Selection → Cutting List → Marking Out → Machining/Cutting → Assembly → Finishing → Final Product Situation/Brief: A problem or need. E.g., "My study desk is cluttered with books." Idea Generation: Brainstorming and sketching possible solutions (e.g., a shelf, a book rack). Working Drawings: A formal, technical drawing that provides all the information needed to make the object. This is our focus. Production & Finishing: The hands-on making process. Concept 2: Understanding Working Drawings (Orthographic Projection) A working drawing is the 'language' of technology. It communicates the exact size, shape, and construction details of an object. The most common type is Orthographic Projection. Definition: Orthographic projection shows an object from different angles, typically the Front View (Elevation), Top View (Plan), and Side View (End Elevation). These views are arranged in a specific way (either First Angle or Third Angle Projection). Key Features: Views: Each view shows the object as if you are looking at it straight-on from that direction. Dimensions: All necessary measurements (length, width, height/thickness) are clearly stated. Hidden Details: Dashed lines (`- - - -`) are used to show edges or features that are not visible from that view. Title Block: A box containing information like the project title, scale, date, and your name.
Example: Working Drawing of a Simple Desktop Book Rack
Imagine a simple book rack made of three pieces of wood: a base and two upright sides. Front View: You would see the long edge of the base and the full shape of the two upright sides. Its dimensions would show the total length (e.g., 400mm) and height (e.g., 150mm). Plan View (Top View): Looking down, you would see the full rectangular shape of the base and the thickness of the two uprights. Its dimensions would show the total length (400mm) and width (e.g., 120mm). End View (Side View): Looking from the side, you would see the end of the base and the profile of one upright. Its dimensions would show the width (120mm) and height (150mm). Concept 3: Creating a Cutting List A cutting list is a table that itemizes every single piece needed to build the project. It is created directly from the working drawing. This is a crucial step for planning and avoiding waste.