**Lesson Plan: The Sewing Machine**
**Grade Level:** Primary 6
**Lesson Duration:** 60 minutes
**Subject:** Home Economics
**Topic:** The Sewing Machine
**Objectives:**
- Students will understand the basic parts of a sewing machine.
- Students will learn the safety precautions to take when using a sewing machine.
- Students will get hands-on experience operating a sewing machine.
**Materials Needed:**
- Diagram of a sewing machine (printed or projected)
- One or more sewing machines
- Fabric swatches
- Thread
- Needles
- Scissors
- Safety goggles or glasses
**Introduction (10 minutes):**
1. **Greeting and Introduction:**
- Welcome students and introduce the topic of the day, "The Sewing Machine."
- Briefly explain the importance of sewing machines in everyday life and the textile industry.
2. **Discussion:**
- Ask students if they have seen a sewing machine before or if they have any prior experience using one.
- Introduce the parts of the sewing machine using a diagram.
**Parts of the Sewing Machine (10 minutes):**
- Use the diagram to explain the primary parts:
- Needle
- Presser foot
- Bobbin and bobbin case
- Foot pedal
- Handwheel
- Stitch selector
- Thread guides
- Tension control
- Feed dogs
- Engage students by asking them to find these parts on the actual sewing machine.
**Safety Precautions (10 minutes):**
- Discuss the importance of safety when using a sewing machine:
- Always keep fingers and hands away from the needle.
- Make sure the machine is turned off when threading or when not in use.
- Wear safety glasses to protect eyes from broken needles.
- Ensure the sewing area is well-lit and clutter-free.
- Give a demonstration on turning the machine on and off safely.
**Hands-On Practice (20 minutes):**
1. **Setting Up the Machine:**
- Show students how to thread the sewing machine correctly.
- Demonstrate how to wind the bobbin and insert it into the bobbin case.
2. **Basic Stitches:**
- Demonstrate a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch.
- Allow students to practice these stitches on fabric swatches.
- Walk around to assist students and check their progress.
**Assessment and Conclusion (10 minutes):**
- **Review:**
- Recap the parts of the sewing machine and the safety precautions discussed.
- Ask students to name the parts of the sewing machine and describe the function of each.
- **Q&A:**
- Allow students to ask questions about the lesson.
- **Practice Assignment:**
- Provide students with fabric swatches to take home and practice sewing straight lines and zigzag stitches under the supervision of a parent or guardian (if possible).
- **Wrap-Up:**
- Thank the students for their participation and encourage them to practice sewing as it is a valuable life skill.
**Homework/Extension:**
- Ask students to draw a labeled diagram of a sewing machine and write a few sentences about the function of each part.
- Encourage them to discuss what they learned with their family members.
**Additional Notes:**
- Ensure each student gets a chance to operate the sewing machine.
- Be patient and provide positive reinforcement to encourage a supportive learning environment.