Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 18/01/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: Joining and assembling materials using a range of temporary and permanent methods.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the key differences between temporary and permanent joining methods.
  • Analyse design criteria (load, material compatibility, volume, cost) to select an appropriate joining technique.
  • Apply the standard process steps – design review, preparation, execution, inspection, finishing – to a joining operation.
  • Calculate shear stress in a bolted joint and evaluate it against allowable limits.
  • Identify and implement safety precautions for each joining method.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint slides on joining methods
  • Sample fasteners (screws, bolts, rivets)
  • MIG/TIG welding demo set with safety gear
  • Adhesive samples and applicators
  • Worksheet with comparison table and calculation tasks
  • Safety goggles, gloves and hearing protection
  • Calculator or spreadsheet for stress calculations
Introduction:

Begin with a short video showing a product being assembled, then ask students to identify where joints are used. Recall last week’s discussion on material properties and how they affect design choices. Explain that today’s success criteria are to correctly choose a joining method and justify it using the selection criteria.

Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – Quick quiz on material properties and previous joining terminology.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Overview of temporary vs permanent methods with real‑world examples.
  3. Demonstration stations (20') – Groups rotate through: (a) fastener assembly, (b) rivet setting, (c) welding safety video & torch demo, (d) adhesive bonding.
  4. Guided activity (15') – Using a design brief, students select a joining method, complete the worksheet, and calculate shear stress for a bolted joint.
  5. Inspection & discussion (5') – Groups present their choices; teacher checks reasoning and calculations.
  6. Safety recap (5') – Review PPE, ventilation, and tool inspection requirements.
Conclusion:

Summarise the key factors influencing method selection and revisit the safety points highlighted during the demos. Students complete an exit ticket stating which joining method they would use for a new design and why. For homework, they research a modern product and list the joining techniques employed.