Lesson Plan

Resources → Subject Notes → Design and Technology → Notes
Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: The use of line, colour, shape, proportion and form to improve visual appearance.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe how line, colour, shape, proportion and form influence visual appeal and ergonomics of a product.
  • Analyse the relationship between visual elements and ergonomic principles such as anthropometry and grip comfort.
  • Apply the golden ratio and colour‑contrast principles to develop a product sketch that balances aesthetics and usability.
  • Evaluate a prototype using a visual‑appeal checklist and ergonomic criteria.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • A3 sketch paper and pencils
  • Colour pencils or markers
  • Rulers and calipers
  • Sample product images (hand‑held drill) or printed handouts
  • Ergonomic measurement charts/anthropometric data sheets
  • Handout with visual‑appeal checklist
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick visual poll: show two product images—one aesthetically striking but ergonomically poor, the other balanced—and ask students which they'd prefer. Review prior knowledge of basic visual elements and ergonomic basics from previous lessons. Explain that today’s success criteria are to identify visual cues that enhance both appearance and user comfort, and to produce a sketch that integrates these cues.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Matching activity linking visual elements (line, colour, shape, proportion, form) to product examples displayed on the board.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Presentation of key concepts for each visual element and its ergonomic impact, using the handheld drill case study.
  3. Guided analysis (10'): In pairs, students annotate printed product images, identifying visual elements and discussing ergonomic implications.
  4. Sketching activity (15'): Individually create an A3 sketch of a handheld tool, deliberately applying at least three visual elements to improve ergonomics; teacher circulates with feedback.
  5. Peer review (10'): Exchange sketches, assess using a checklist for visual appeal and ergonomic suitability, and provide constructive comments.
  6. Whole‑class reflection (5'): Share notable examples, summarise how visual elements support ergonomics, and link back to the success criteria.
Conclusion:
Recap the main ways line, colour, shape, proportion and form can be combined to enhance both the look and feel of a product. Students complete an exit ticket by writing one design improvement they would make to the drill based on today’s learning. Assign homework to research a household object and prepare a brief visual‑ergonomic analysis for the next lesson.