Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 18/01/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: Selecting and applying a finish which is appropriate for the material used and the product design.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the stages of materials processing and their impact on finish selection.
  • Explain how material properties, functional requirements and aesthetics influence finish choice.
  • Apply a systematic decision‑making framework to select an appropriate finish for a given product.
  • Demonstrate correct surface preparation, application and quality‑control procedures for common finishes.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Sample material specimens (metal, polymer, wood)
  • Finish samples (paint, powder coating, anodised aluminium, chrome plating)
  • Safety goggles and gloves
  • Sanding/abrasive blasting equipment
  • Worksheets with decision‑matrix tables
 Introduction:
Begin with a striking image of two identical products finished differently to spark curiosity. Recall the previous lesson on material selection and ask students how finish can change performance and appearance. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to choose and apply the most suitable finish for a given design.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students list finishes they have seen on everyday objects.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Overview of materials‑processing stages and where finish selection fits.
  3. Interactive decision‑matrix activity (15'): Groups evaluate three finishes for a case study using the provided criteria.
  4. Demonstration (10'): Surface preparation and application of a paint finish on a metal sample.
  5. Hands‑on practice (15'): Students prepare a small specimen and apply a chosen finish (paint or powder coating).
  6. Quality‑control check (5'): Inspect finishes, measure thickness, discuss defects.
  7. Plenary (5'): Recap key factors influencing finish choice and answer any questions.
Conclusion:
Students summarise the main steps from material selection to final finish in their own words. An exit ticket asks them to name one functional and one aesthetic factor that would lead them to choose powder coating over paint. For homework, they research a real product and prepare a brief report justifying the finish used.