Lesson Plan

Resources → Subject Notes → Design and Technology → Notes
Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: The advantages and disadvantages to a designer or manufacturer of using these types of software programs and the appropriateness of their use.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the primary functions of CAD, CAM, CAE, PLM, and BIM software.
  • Compare the main advantages and disadvantages of each software type for designers and manufacturers.
  • Evaluate criteria for selecting appropriate software based on project complexity, production volume, and organisational capability.
  • Apply a decision‑making framework to recommend suitable software for a given design brief.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Printed handout of the comparative software table
  • Computers with demo CAD/CAM software installed
  • Worksheet containing a case study and decision‑making template
  • Internet access for quick research
  • Sticky notes and markers for brainstorming
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: ask students to name any design or manufacturing software they have heard of and record responses on sticky notes. Review prior knowledge of digital design tools and link it to today’s focus. Explain that the success criteria are to identify key pros and cons of each software type and to justify appropriate use for a specific product scenario.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students write known software names on sticky notes; brief whole‑class share.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Overview of CAD, CAM, CAE, PLM, and BIM functions using projected slides.
  3. Comparative analysis activity (15’) – In pairs, examine the handout table and complete a Venn diagram of advantages vs. disadvantages.
  4. Case‑study decision task (15’) – Groups receive a product brief, select the most suitable software, and justify their choice on the worksheet.
  5. Whole‑class debrief (10’) – Groups present recommendations; teacher highlights key selection criteria.
  6. Exit ticket (5’) – Each student writes one advantage and one disadvantage of the software they recommended.
Conclusion:
Recap the main benefits and challenges of each software type and how they align with project needs. Collect exit tickets to check understanding and address any lingering misconceptions. For homework, ask students to research a real‑world example where multiple software tools were integrated and prepare a short summary to share in the next lesson.