Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: Planning drawings, including: flowcharts, Gantt charts, materials or cutting lists.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the purpose and key symbols of flowcharts, Gantt charts and cutting lists.
  • Apply a standard symbol set to produce a clear flowchart for a simple product.
  • Calculate task durations and construct a basic Gantt chart showing dependencies.
  • Compile an accurate cutting list that records dimensions, quantities and special notes.
  • Integrate the three planning tools to communicate a complete design proposal.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed worksheet with flowchart symbols and Gantt template
  • Sample cutting‑list table handout
  • Computers with spreadsheet software (e.g., Excel) or online Gantt tool
  • Sticky notes and coloured pens for group work
Introduction:

Begin with a quick video clip showing a poorly communicated design that caused costly errors. Ask learners to identify what was missing. Link this to today’s success criteria: students will produce three coordinated planning drawings that clearly convey process, schedule and material requirements.

Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – Students list where they have seen planning drawings in real life.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Explain flowchart symbols, layout rules and common pitfalls.
  3. Guided practice (15') – In pairs, create a flowchart for a simple wooden chair using the worksheet.
  4. Concept introduction (10') – Demonstrate Gantt chart components and the duration formula.
  5. Group activity (15') – Using the same chair project, populate a Gantt chart on computers, identifying dependencies.
  6. Cutting‑list workshop (10') – Students fill a cutting‑list table for the chair’s materials.
  7. Integration task (10') – Teams cross‑reference their flowchart steps with Gantt tasks and cutting‑list items, adding reference numbers.
  8. Plenary & check (5') – Quick whole‑class review of key checklist items; exit ticket: “One thing I will double‑check in my planning drawings.”
Conclusion:

Recap the three planning tools and how they support clear communication and efficient resource use. Collect exit tickets and highlight common strengths and areas to improve. For homework, students must draft a flowchart, Gantt chart and cutting list for a personal DIY project, ready to share next lesson.