Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 7

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify and describe basic hand tools for wood and metal.
• Explain the safe and correct use of these tools.
• Distinguish between cutting, shaping, joining, and finishing.
• Select the right tool for a specific task.
• Apply safe work practices in a workshop.

Lesson summary

This week, we're diving into the fascinating world of processing materials! Processing involves changing raw materials into useful objects.

Think about it: the wood that makes your desk, the metal in your bicycle, even the plastic used for your cell phone case – all of these started as raw materials that needed to be processed. Understanding the basic tools and techniques used to process materials is crucial. It allows us to design and create solutions to problems, build things we need, and appreciate the craftsmanship around us.

Lesson notes

2.1 Introduction to Processing: Processing is the act of changing materials from their raw form into something useful.

Think of it like cooking: you start with raw ingredients (like maize, tomatoes, and onions) and process them using different tools and techniques (chopping, mixing, heating) to create a delicious meal. Similarly, in technology, we take raw materials (like wood from a tree or iron ore from the ground) and process them using various tools and techniques to create useful products. 2.2 Common Materials for Processing: Wood: A natural, renewable resource widely used for building, furniture, and crafts.

Examples in South Africa: Pine (often used in construction), Saligna (hardwood used for furniture), and indigenous woods like Kiaat (valuable for furniture and artwork).

Metal: Strong, durable materials used for various purposes, from construction to electronics.

Examples: Steel (construction, vehicles), Aluminium (cans, window frames), Copper (wiring). 2.3 Basic Hand Tools and Their Uses: Here's a breakdown of common hand tools, their uses, and safety precautions, specifically for wood and metal processing: | Tool | Material | Use | Safety Precautions | South African Example | |-----------------|----------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------| | Hand Saw | Wood | Cutting wood to a specific size or shape. Can be a panel saw, tenon saw or coping saw (for curves). | Use a sawing guide to keep the cut straight. Keep fingers away from the blade. Ensure the wood is securely clamped. | Cutting planks for a shack construction. | | Hacksaw | Metal | Cutting metal to a specific size or shape. | Use a firm grip and even pressure. Ensure the metal is securely clamped. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying metal chips. | Cutting metal pipes for plumbing repairs. | | Hammer | Wood | Driving nails to join pieces of wood together. Also used for shaping metal with appropriate anvils or forming tools. | Use a firm grip and strike the nail head squarely. Avoid hitting your fingers. Wear safety glasses when shaping metal. | Building a wooden frame for a bed. | | Screwdriver | Wood/Metal| Driving screws to join pieces of wood or metal together. Different types (flathead, Phillips) for different screw heads. | Use the correct screwdriver for the screw head. Apply even pressure to avoid stripping the screw head. | Assembling a steel gate. | | Pliers | Metal | Gripping, bending, or cutting wire. Different types (needle-nose, combination pliers) for different tasks. | Use insulated pliers when working with electricity. Avoid over-straining the pliers. Wear safety glasses when cutting wire. | Repairing a wire fence. | | Files | Metal | Used to smooth the edges of cut metal. Different coarseness for different purposes. | Use the file only in one direction, applying pressure on the push stroke. Always use a handle to prevent injury to your hand. | Smoothing the edge of a cut metal plate. | | Chisel | Wood | Used to shape wood, especially for creating joints. | Use the chisel with a mallet. Keep your hands behind the cutting edge. | Creating a mortise and tenon joint for a chair. | Example 1: Cutting a wooden plank Let's say you need to cut a piece of pine wood to 50cm long to build a small shelf.

Measure: Use a measuring tape to mark 50cm on the plank of wood.

Mark: Use a pencil and a square to draw a straight line across the wood at the 50cm mark. The square ensures the line is perpendicular to the edge of the wood.

Secure: Clamp the wood firmly to a workbench. This prevents it from moving while you cut.

Saw: Use a hand saw (panel saw is best for this) to cut along the marked line. Start with a few gentle strokes to create a groove, then increase the pressure. Follow the line carefully and keep the saw blade straight.

Check: Once cut, check the measurement and the straightness of the cut.

Example 2: Cutting a metal pipe Suppose you need to cut a steel pipe of 30cm length for a DIY project.

Measure: Use a measuring tape to measure 30cm on the pipe.

Mark: Use a marker to draw a line around the pipe at the 30cm mark. Wrap a piece of paper around the pipe with a straight edge aligned to the pipe to draw a straight line.

Secure: Use a pipe vice or clamps to secure the pipe. This is crucial for safety when cutting metal.

Cut: Use a hacksaw to cut along the marked line. Apply steady pressure and keep the saw blade perpendicular to the pipe. Keep the blade lubricated with oil or cutting fluid.

Deburr: Use a file to smooth the cut edges and remove any burrs. 2.4 Processing Techniques: Cutting: Separating materials using tools like saws, shears, or knives.