**Lesson Plan: Properties of Wood**
**Subject:** Basic Tech
**Grade Level:** Junior Secondary 1
**Class Duration:** 60 minutes
**Topic:** Properties of Wood
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**Objective:**
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1. Identify different types of wood commonly used in woodworking and construction.
2. Understand and describe the basic properties of wood.
3. Recognize the uses of various types of wood based on their properties.
**Materials Needed:**
- Samples of different types of wood (oak, pine, mahogany, etc.)
- Magnifying glasses
- Handouts on properties of wood
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector and laptop (if available)
- Pictures and diagrams of wood anatomy
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**Lesson Breakdown:**
1. **Introduction (10 minutes)**
- Greet the students and take attendance.
- Introduce the topic for the day: Properties of Wood.
- Ask the students if they have any prior knowledge about wood and its uses. Write key points on the whiteboard.
- Briefly explain why understanding the properties of wood is important in Basic Tech and everyday life.
2. **Presentation (20 minutes)**
- Show different types of wood samples.
- Discuss the anatomy of wood: heartwood, sapwood, grain, growth rings, and fibers.
- Explain the properties of wood: strength, durability, density, hardness, moisture content, and workability.
- Use a projector to show diagrams and pictures that highlight the different parts and properties of wood.
- Distribute handouts that summarize these points for student review.
3. **Group Activity (15 minutes)**
- Divide students into small groups.
- Give each group a set of wood samples and magnifying glasses.
- Each group will examine the wood samples, identify the type of wood, and note its properties.
- Have each group discuss where they think each type of wood might be best used (e.g., construction, furniture, flooring).
4. **Class Discussion (10 minutes)**
- Bring the class back together and have each group share their findings.
- Ask open-ended questions to encourage discussion about why certain woods are suitable for specific applications.
5. **Conclusion (5 minutes)**
- Summarize the key points from the lesson.
- Answer any remaining questions from the students.
- Provide a brief overview of the next lesson topic.
6. **Assessment:**
- Formative: Participation in group activity and class discussion.
- Summative: A short quiz on the properties of wood in the next class session to assess understanding.
**Homework:**
- Assign students to research at home and find 3-5 items made from wood. They should note the type of wood used (if possible) and its properties. They can bring pictures or write descriptions to share with the class in the next lesson.
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**Notes for Teachers:**
- Ensure all wood samples are safely handled by students.
- Encourage students to ask questions and share their thoughts.
- Adapt materials and questioning to suit the varying learning needs and levels of students in the class.