Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 7

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

• Safely use tools and materials to build your design.
• Accurately measure and cut materials.
• Solve problems that arise during construction.
• Evaluate your final product against your plan.
• Use resources responsibly and manage waste.

Lesson summary

This week, we delve deeper into the design process, specifically focusing on the 'making' stage of our simple product. Last week, we finalized our designs for a simple storage solution (e.g., a desk organiser, a container for pencils, a small bookshelf). This week is all about bringing those designs to life. The design process isn't just abstract thinking; it's about creating something tangible and useful. This skill is critical because it fosters problem-solving, creativity, and resourcefulness – skills that are valuable in any career and in daily life, particularly in a developing nation like South Africa, where innovative solutions to everyday challenges are always needed.

Lesson notes

The 'making' stage is where your design moves from paper to reality. It involves the practical application of your design, using tools and materials to build your product. Crucially, 'making' isn't simply following instructions; it's a dynamic process where adjustments are often necessary.

Here's a breakdown of key considerations: 2.1 Material Selection: Suitability: The material needs to be appropriate for the intended use. For a desk organiser, cardboard, wood, or recycled plastic might work. For a bookshelf, stronger materials like wood or metal are necessary to support the weight.

Availability & Cost: In South Africa, access to certain materials can be limited or expensive. Consider readily available and affordable alternatives. For example, using recycled plastic bottles for smaller containers instead of purchasing new plastic.

Workability: Can you easily cut, shape, and join the material with the tools available to you?

Sustainability: Prioritize materials with a lower environmental impact. Can you use recycled materials? Can you source materials locally to reduce transportation costs and support local businesses? 2.2 Tool Selection and Safe Usage: Hand Tools: Rulers, pencils, saws, scissors, knives (use with extreme caution and adult supervision), hammers, screwdrivers. Understand the function of each tool and select the appropriate tool for the job.

Power Tools: (If available and under strict supervision): Drills, sanders. Power tools require specialized training and must be used with proper safety equipment (eye protection, hearing protection).

Safety First: ALWAYS wear appropriate safety gear (safety glasses, gloves if needed). Ensure adequate ventilation, especially when working with adhesives or paints. NEVER use tools that you haven't been trained to use. Work in a clear and organized space. 2.3 Measurement and Cutting: Accuracy: Precise measurements are essential for a successful project. Use a ruler or measuring tape accurately. Double-check your measurements before cutting.

Cutting Techniques: Different materials require different cutting techniques. Cardboard can be cut with scissors or a craft knife. Wood requires a saw. Ensure you are using the correct technique and that you are cutting on a stable surface.

Marking: Mark your cut lines clearly with a pencil or marker.

Waste Minimization: Plan your cuts carefully to minimize waste material. 2.4 Joining Techniques: Adhesives: Glue, tape, epoxy. Select the appropriate adhesive for the materials being joined. Ensure proper ventilation when using adhesives.

Fasteners: Screws, nails, rivets. These provide stronger, more permanent joints.

Interlocking: Designing the pieces to interlock, reducing or eliminating the need for adhesives or fasteners (e.g., using tabs and slots).

Considerations: Strength of the joint, appearance, ease of assembly. 2.5 Problem-Solving and Adaptation: The 'making' process is rarely perfect. You will likely encounter challenges. The key is to be adaptable and resourceful.

Material Shortages: If you run out of a particular material, can you substitute it with something else?

Measurement Errors: If you cut a piece too short, can you salvage the situation? Can you adjust the design?

Construction Difficulties: If a joint is not strong enough, can you reinforce it?

Example 1: Building a Cardboard Desk Organiser Let's say you are building a simple desk organiser from recycled cardboard boxes.

Material Selection: Recycled cardboard boxes of varying sizes. Strong glue (e.g., wood glue or craft glue).

Tool Selection: Ruler, pencil, craft knife (with adult supervision), cutting mat, glue brush.

Measurement and Cutting: Measure and cut the cardboard pieces according to your design.

Example: Cut a base of 30cm x 20cm, and sides of varying heights (e.g., 10cm, 15cm, 5cm) to create compartments.

Joining Techniques: Glue the sides to the base, ensuring they are aligned correctly. Use clamps or weights to hold the pieces together while the glue dries.

Problem-Solving: If a side is slightly too short, you can add a small piece of cardboard to fill the gap and then reinforce the joint with glue.

Example 2: Building a Pencil Holder from a Plastic Bottle Material Selection: A clean, empty plastic bottle, decorative paper or paint.

Tool Selection: Scissors (with adult supervision), ruler, pencil, glue.

Measurement and Cutting: Measure and mark the bottle at the desired height (e.g., 10cm). Carefully cut the bottle along the marked line.

Joining Techniques: (No joining needed, the bottle itself forms the container) Glue decorative paper around the outside of the bottle or paint it to make it look attractive.

Problem-Solving: If the cut edge is uneven, carefully trim it with scissors.

Example 3: Building a Small Wooden Shelf Material Selection: Pieces of softwood (pine) – these can be sourced from a local hardware store.

Tool Selection: Ruler, pencil, saw, sandpaper, wood glue, screws, screwdriver (or drill with screwdriver bit).