Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2

INTRODUCTION TO ENGINE TECHNOLOGY

Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.

Get it on Google Play
Get it on the Apple App Store
  1. Home
  2. Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4
  3. SHS 2
  4. INTRODUCTION TO ENGINE TECHNOLOGY

Subject: Applied Technology

Class: SHS 2

Term: 1st Term

Week: 2

Grade code: 2.1.1.LI.3

Strand code: 1

Sub-strand code: 1

Content standard code: 2.1.1.CS.1

Indicator code: 2.1.1.LI.3

Theme: AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Subtheme: INTRODUCTION TO ENGINE TECHNOLOGY

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

Lesson summary

Welcome, students. We've all seen a car pulled over on the side of the road in Ghana, with steam pouring out from under the bonnet, especially in heavy traffic in cities like Accra or Kumasi. This common problem is almost always caused by a failure in the engine's cooling system. This system works like the human body's circulatory system, carrying away dangerous heat to keep the engine healthy. Understanding how it works is not just for mechanics ('fitters'); it's a crucial life skill for any driver or vehicle owner to prevent costly damage and stay safe on the road.

Lesson notes

Part A: Why Do Engines Need Cooling?

An internal combustion engine generates immense heat through two main processes: Combustion: The explosion of the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders can reach over 2000°C. Friction: Hundreds of metal parts moving against each other at high speed create significant heat.

If this heat is not removed, it will cause: Engine oil to break down and lose its ability to lubricate. Metal parts (like pistons) to expand and seize (get stuck). The cylinder head to warp, leading to major engine damage.

The cooling system's job is to manage this heat, keeping the engine at its most efficient operating temperature (typically between 85°C and 105°C). Part B: The Thermostat – The Engine's Temperature Regulator

Evaluation guide