Lesson Plan

Resources → Subject Notes → Design and Technology → Notes
Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: The appreciation of the effects of light and shade on solid forms and of different surface finishes on visual and tactile senses.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe how illumination, reflection and shadow create visual cues on solid forms.
  • Analyse the impact of different surface finishes on perceived visual and tactile qualities.
  • Apply the reflectance relationship to select appropriate finishes for given lighting conditions.
  • Evaluate ergonomic implications of visual and tactile design in product prototypes.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Sample material swatches (polished, matte, brushed, textured, coated)
  • 3‑D modelling software (e.g., Fusion 360) on computers
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Handout with finish comparison table
  • Adjustable LED light source kit
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: shine a flashlight on a simple cube to reveal highlights, mid‑tones and shadows. Recall students’ prior learning about basic lighting terminology and how shape is perceived. Today’s success criteria: students will identify lighting effects, compare finishes, and justify ergonomic choices.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students sketch a cube and label highlight, mid‑tone, core shadow, and cast shadow.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Explain illumination, reflection, shadow and introduce surface‑finish categories using slides and swatches.
  3. Guided modelling (15’) – In 3‑D software students apply different finishes to a virtual cube and adjust a light source, noting changes.
  4. Hands‑on investigation (15’) – Groups examine physical finish samples under varied lighting, record visual and tactile observations, discuss ergonomic implications.
  5. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick exit‑ticket quiz with three questions from the review list.
Conclusion:
Summarise how light direction and finish choice together shape perception and comfort. Students complete an exit ticket summarising one design decision they would make for a handheld tool. For homework, they research a product and create a brief report linking its finish to lighting and ergonomics.