Lesson Plan

• Describe the purpose and key characteristics of models, prototypes, and marketable products.
• Compare the levels of detail, materials, and testing focus across the three development stages.
• Explain how the design process moves from idea generation to a final marketable product, including basic cost considerations.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Printed handouts with the comparison table
• Sample model (e.g., cardboard mock‑up) and prototype (e.g., 3‑D printed part)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Worksheets for group activity
• Laptop with CAD software demo

Begin with a short video showing a product evolving from sketch to market shelf to capture interest. Ask students to recall any models or prototypes they have seen in everyday life, linking to prior knowledge of the design cycle. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify and differentiate the three development stages.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Students list examples of a model, a prototype, and a marketable product they have encountered.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Define each term using the displayed comparison table and highlight key differences.
3. Guided analysis (10') – In pairs, students complete a Venn diagram on the handout to contrast purpose, materials, and testing focus.
4. Hands‑on showcase (15') – Teacher displays a physical model and a functional prototype; discuss materials, fidelity, and testing.
5. Application activity (15') – Groups design a simple product, outline steps from model to marketable product, and apply the learning‑curve cost formula.
6. Plenary (5') – Quick Kahoot quiz to check understanding of the three stages.

Recap the defining features of models, prototypes, and marketable products, emphasizing their role in the design process. For the exit ticket, each student writes one key difference for each stage. Assign homework: research a real‑world product and create a brief flowchart mapping its development from model through prototype to marketable product.