Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2
MATERIALS AND ARTEFACT PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK IINDUSTRY IN GHANA
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
MATERIALS AND ARTEFACT PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK IINDUSTRY IN GHANA
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Applied Technology
Class: SHS 2
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 12
Grade code: 2.4.2.LI.3
Strand code: 4
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 2.4.2.CS.2
Indicator code: 2.4.2.LI.3
Theme: WOOD TECHNOLOGY
Subtheme: MATERIALS AND ARTEFACT PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK IINDUSTRY IN GHANA
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.
Welcome, students! Look around our classroom. We are surrounded by wooden objects: desks, chairs, doors, and cupboards. Have you ever wondered why some wooden items are shiny, some are colourful, and others have a smooth, plastic-like surface? This is all because of wood finishes. A finish is a special coating applied to the surface of a wooden artefact. In Ghana, from the beautiful carved stools sold at the Arts Centre in Accra to the sturdy furniture made by carpenters in Kumasi, finishing is a crucial final step. It does two main things: it protects the wood from damage (from water, insects, and wear), and it makes the object look beautiful (aesthetics).
This lesson is divided into three main parts: Part A: Why We Finish Wood - The purpose of finishing. Part B: Surface Preparation - The essential first steps before applying any finish. Part C: Types of Finishes - A detailed look at the five main types of finishes. Part A: Why We Finish Wood
Applying a finish is not just about making wood look good. It serves two critical purposes: Protection: Moisture Control: Wood is porous, meaning it can absorb water. Unfinished wood swells when it absorbs moisture and shrinks when it dries, leading to warping, cracking, and splitting. A finish seals the pores, making the wood resistant to water and humidity changes. Think of a wooden fishing boat in Elmina; the finish protects it from the salty seawater. Pest and Fungal Resistance: Finishes can contain chemicals that deter insects like termites and prevent the growth of mould and fungi that cause wood to rot. Wear and Tear: Finishes provide a durable layer that protects the wood from scratches, stains, and the effects of sunlight (UV radiation), which can discolour the wood. A school desk needs a tough finish to withstand daily use. Aesthetics (Appearance): Enhancing the Grain: Many finishes, like varnish and polish, are transparent. They bring out the natural beauty, colour, and pattern (the grain) of the wood, making it look richer. This is important for beautiful woods like Odum or Mahogany. Adding Colour: Opaque finishes like paint can be used to add any colour to a wooden object, matching it to a room's decor or for specific designs. Think of the colourful coffins made by artisans in Teshie. Achieving a Desired Sheen: Finishes can create different levels of shininess, from a high gloss (very shiny) to a matte (not shiny) look, depending on the desired style. Part B: Surface Preparation: The Foundation of a Good Finish
A perfect finish can only be achieved on a perfectly prepared surface. If the surface is rough, dirty, or has holes, the final finish will look poor, no matter how good the material is. This stage is often called "cleaning-up".
Activity 1: Think-Pair-Share Think (1 minute): Individually, think about what you would need to do to a rough piece of wood to make it smooth and ready for painting. What tools would you use? Pair (2 minutes): Turn to your partner and share your ideas. Share (3 minutes): Let's hear from some pairs. What did you discuss?