Lesson Plan

• Describe the properties of common 3‑D materials and select appropriate processes and tools.
• Apply CAD software to produce 2‑D drawings and 3‑D models for digital fabrication.
• Demonstrate safe operation of kilns, laser cutters and hand tools to create a finished three‑dimensional artwork.
• Evaluate the final piece against the design brief, technical skill, safety and sustainability criteria.

• Projector and screen for demonstrations
• Computers with CAD software (Fusion 360 or Rhino)
• Electric kiln, heat‑resistant gloves, temperature monitor
• Laser cutter, acrylic sheets, fire blanket
• Hand‑tool set (saws, drills, files, sandpaper, safety goggles)
• Clay, glazes, drying racks
• Adhesives, wiring components for lamp assembly
• Worksheets/brief sheets and design logbooks

Begin with a quick visual of a striking three‑dimensional lamp to spark curiosity. Ask students what processes they think were used and link this to prior experience with clay modelling or digital design. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will safely operate a kiln, CAD program, laser cutter and hand tools to produce their own small lamp, and they will be assessed against a clear checklist.

1. Do‑now (5'): Sketch a simple 3‑D object and list the materials and tools you would need.
2. Mini‑lecture & safety briefing (10'): Overview of kiln firing, CAD workflow, laser‑cutting and hand‑tool safety.
3. CAD modelling activity (15'): In pairs, create a basic lamp base in Fusion 360, export STL for a prototype and DXF for laser cutting.
4. Hands‑on fabrication (20'): Build the clay base, dry, bisque fire, glaze and fire again; then laser‑cut acrylic shade pieces.
5. Assembly & finishing (10'): Sand, polish, attach acrylic shade and wiring to complete the lamp.
6. Peer review (5'): Use the assessment checklist to evaluate each other's work.
7. Reflection & exit ticket (5'): Write one success and one area for improvement on a sticky note.

Recap the key steps from concept to finished lamp and highlight how each specialist process contributed to the final result. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a brief homework: photograph their lamp, write a 150‑word reflection, and propose one modification for a future iteration.