Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: The different methods of CAM which can be used when constructing products and the common uses for such methods, including: digital printing, vinyl cutting, laser cutting, 3D printing (stereolithography and fused deposition).
Learning Objective/s:
  • Identify and describe the five main CAM methods and their typical applications.
  • Compare the advantages, limitations, and suitable materials for each CAM technique.
  • Select the most appropriate CAM process based on product requirements, material, volume and cost.
  • Explain the key safety and environmental considerations for each CAM method.
  • Evaluate post‑processing requirements for the outputs of each CAM technology.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed comparison handout (CAM methods table)
  • Sample material swatches (paper, vinyl, wood, resin)
  • Laptop with CAD/CAM software demo files
  • Access to a digital printer, vinyl cutter, laser cutter, SLA and FDM 3D printers (or video demos)
  • Safety goggles, nitrile gloves, and blade guards
 Introduction:

Begin with a quick poll: “Which everyday objects do you think were made using digital manufacturing?” Connect this to students’ prior experience with CAD design. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to match product requirements to the most suitable CAM method and justify their choice.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list items they suspect are produced with CAM and share briefly.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Overview of digital printing, vinyl cutting, laser cutting, SLA and FDM, using slides and real‑world examples.
  3. Group activity (15’) – Fill in a comparison chart (provided) focusing on materials, resolution, surface finish, advantages and limitations.
  4. Demonstration (10’) – Short video/live demo of a laser cutter and an FDM printer in action.
  5. Decision‑making task (15’) – Given a product brief, groups choose the optimal CAM method, justify their selection, and outline post‑processing steps.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick Kahoot quiz or exit ticket with one key takeaway.
Conclusion:

Recap the main strengths and constraints of each CAM method and highlight how the decision‑making framework guides selection. Students complete an exit ticket stating which CAM method they would use for a personal project and why. For homework, research a recent product that utilizes one of the discussed CAM techniques and prepare a short summary.