Lesson Plan

• Describe the key visual elements that contribute to product aesthetics.
• Explain how aesthetic choices influence user perception and ergonomic performance.
• Analyse the relationship between aesthetics and ergonomics in product design.
• Apply the integrated design process to evaluate a product’s visual and ergonomic qualities.
• Create a brief design brief that balances aesthetic appeal with ergonomic functionality.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed handouts of visual‑element table
• Sample product (e.g., smartphone) for analysis
• Colour swatches and texture samples
• Worksheet for case‑study sketching

Begin with a quick image‑comparison of two products to spark discussion about first impressions. Recall the previous lesson on ergonomics and ask students how visual appeal might affect comfort. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify aesthetic elements and link them to ergonomic outcomes.

1. Do‑now (5') – Students answer three review questions on aesthetics from the prior lesson.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Define aesthetics, present the visual elements (colour, form, texture, etc.) with slide examples.
3. Group analysis (15') – In small groups, examine the smartphone case study, list aesthetic and ergonomic features using the handout.
4. Design integration task (15') – Pairs sketch a new product concept that balances colour, form, texture, and ergonomic considerations; prepare a brief rationale.
5. Class discussion (10') – Volunteers share sketches, discuss trade‑offs, and map their ideas onto the design‑process stages.
6. Exit ticket (5') – Write one way an aesthetic choice can improve ergonomics in their design.

Summarise how visual elements and ergonomic function are inter‑dependent and highlight the key stages of the integrated design process. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding, and assign a homework task to research a product where aesthetics enhanced usability and prepare a short report.