Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Design and Technology
Lesson Topic: How similar and dissimilar materials are joined: permanently (with nails and pins, by heat (soldering, brazing and welding), with adhesives - spray mount, hot melt glue, polystyrene cement, PVA (polyvinyl acetate), all-purpose glue, two-part epoxy re
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe permanent joining methods (mechanical, thermal, adhesive) and the material combinations they suit.
  • Compare the advantages and limitations of temporary joining techniques.
  • Apply a decision‑making flowchart to select an appropriate joining method based on material similarity, permanence, load and production constraints.
  • Demonstrate safe handling of tools and adhesives in a workshop setting.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Handouts with summary tables and flowchart
  • Sample fasteners (nails, pins, rivets)
  • Soldering iron and small solder pieces
  • Welding demo kit (small MIG/TIG setup)
  • Adhesive samples (spray mount, hot‑melt sticks, two‑part epoxy)
  • Safety goggles, gloves, and aprons
 Introduction:
Begin with a short video showing everyday objects held together by different joining methods to spark curiosity. Review prior knowledge of basic fasteners and ask students to name examples of permanent and temporary joints. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to evaluate and choose the most suitable joining technique for a design brief.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list everyday items and identify the joining method used.
  2. Mini‑lecture (15’) – Overview of permanent mechanical, thermal, and adhesive methods with visual examples.
  3. Demonstration (20’) – Teacher shows a nail joint, a solder joint, and an epoxy bond, highlighting preparation and safety.
  4. Group activity (15’) – Teams use the decision flowchart to select a joining method for a provided design scenario and record their justification.
  5. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick Kahoot quiz on advantages/disadvantages of each method.
  6. Reflection (5’) – Students write one key takeaway on a sticky note and share with the class.
Conclusion:
Recap the main differences between permanent and temporary joining techniques and how the decision flowchart guides selection. Collect exit tickets where each student names the most appropriate method for a new design problem. For homework, ask students to research a real‑world product and describe the joining method used and why it was chosen.